Multi-point Nozzle Assembly with External Flow Passages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-tip nozzle assemblies in hot runner injection molding systems are complex and tall, leading to increased manufacturing time and mass due to their internal flow passages, resulting in a taller mold plate stack.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece central body with axially extending central and radial flow passages, featuring removable nozzle seals and a flange for secure assembly, simplifies manufacturing and reduces the nozzle assembly's profile by using a plug to facilitate drilling and a radial flange for secure locking, along with an alignment pin for proper positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-tip nozzle assemblies use traditional internal flow passages, then the system provides multi-cavity molding capability, but the manufacturing time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is divided into separate components: a manifold body with external flow passages and individual nozzle tips. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes, then assembled together to achieve multi-cavity molding capability without the manufacturing complexity of traditional integrated internal passages.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow passages are moved from internal three-dimensional complex routing to external surface routing on the manifold body. This dimensional change allows molten material to flow through passages on the exterior surface rather than through complex internal channels, dramatically simplifying manufacturing while maintaining multi-cavity functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-point nozzle assemblies have complex internal flow passages, then multi-cavity molding is enabled, but the profile height increases
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating flow passages to the external surface of the manifold body rather than routing them through internal three-dimensional paths, the overall height of the nozzle assembly is reduced. The external passage configuration allows for a more compact vertical profile while still providing access to multiple cavities.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation of the manifold body from individual nozzle tips allows each component to be optimized independently. The manifold can be designed with a compact profile while the nozzle tips extend outward to reach the mold cavities, reducing the overall height requirement compared to traditional integrated designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-point nozzle assemblies are used, then multi-cavity molding is achieved, but the mass of the injection molding system increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the nozzle system into a manifold and separate tips allows for more efficient material distribution and reduced wall thickness in each component. This segmentation enables the use of lighter materials and reduces overall mass while maintaining the multi-cavity molding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The external flow passage configuration reduces the amount of material required compared to traditional internal passages, as the passages follow the outer surface rather than requiring thick internal walls. This dimensional reconfiguration reduces the overall mass of the nozzle assembly.
4Device complexity
If multi-point nozzle assemblies have tall profile, then internal flow passages can be accommodated, but the mold plate stack height increases
Solution Approach 1:
By moving flow passages to the external surface of the manifold body, the design eliminates the need for tall internal passage routing. This allows the mold plate stack to be more compact vertically, as the external passages can be configured in a space-efficient manner that reduces overall stack height.
Data Source
AI summary
An injection molding nozzle assembly is disclosed comprising a one-piece central body having a generally-cylindrical first section defining a radial surface and terminating in a face and a generally-cylindrical second section defining a radial surface extending in axial alignment with the first section in a direction opposite to the face. A central passage extends axially within the second section, and one or more flow passages extend between the central passage and the face of the first section. At least one of the flow passages has an aperture in the radial surface of the second section which receives a plug. A nozzle seal is removably secured to each of the flow passages on the face of the first cylindrical section. A flange is provided that has a generally-cylindrical central opening that is to be received by the second cylindrical portion of the body and is affixed to the body so as to overlie each plug.