Retaining Unit for Compact Multi-Stage Mold Ejection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional two-stage ejection mechanisms in injection molding dies are bulky due to the use of two ejector plates, and existing retaining mechanisms lack simplicity and versatility in assembly, requiring specific magnetic forces for different dies.

Innovation Solution

A retaining unit with a movable first member and a fixed second member, utilizing a pressing element that can be adjusted and detachably assembled, allowing for compact and versatile integration with the ejection mechanism, where the first member functions as an ejector pin and the second member is integrated with the ejector plate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two ejector plates are used in a two-stage ejection mechanism, then multi-stage ejection capability is achieved, but the size of the mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-stage ejection capabilityVSAvoidmechanism size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two ejector plates into a single integrated ejector plate structure. The first ejector plate and second ejector plate are merged into one plate with different regions having different ejection functions, eliminating the need for separate plates while maintaining multi-stage ejection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single ejector plate is divided into different functional regions: a first ejection region with first ejector pins for initial ejection, and a second ejection region with second ejector pins for subsequent ejection. This segmentation allows multi-stage ejection within a single plate structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If magnetic force is used to attach ejector pin to ejector plate, then attachment mechanism is simple, but versatility across different dies is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment mechanism simplicityVSAvoidusability across different dies

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces magnetic attachment with a mechanical attachment mechanism. The ejector pin has a head portion that fits into a corresponding recess in the ejector plate, and a retaining mechanism with a retaining member and elastic member provides mechanical retention. This mechanical system can be adjusted for different dies, providing both simplicity and versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The retaining mechanism uses an elastic member (spring) that can be compressed and expanded. The retaining member can be moved between a retained position (holding the ejector pin) and a released position (allowing detachment). This dynamic mechanism allows easy attachment and detachment while adapting to different die configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If ejector pin movement is restricted during ejection, then precise ejection control is achieved, but ejection flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveejection control precisionVSAvoidejection flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a stopper member that preliminarily contacts the ejector pin to restrict its movement during the ejection process. The stopper member is positioned in advance to define the ejection distance, ensuring precise control. After ejection, the stopper member retracts, allowing full flexibility for the next ejection cycle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11345071B2Retaining unit, and ejection mechanism of molding die assembly including retaining unit

Publication Date: 2022.05.31 TECHNOCRATS CORP

AI summary

A retaining unit comprising: a first member configured to be movable; a second member used in an unmovable fixed state; and a pressing element attached to the second member, and configured to press the first member to engage the first member with the second member, wherein the retaining unit is configured such that the first member can be moved by release of the engagement with the second member when a force at a predetermined level or higher is applied in a movement direction of the first member, and the pressing element is assembled with the second member to constitute a unit.