Stack Mold Label Transfer for IML Cup Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stack injection molding tools for In-Mold-Labeling (IML) processes face challenges in efficiently arranging magazine means and receiving means to ensure IML injection molded parts, particularly cups, are produced from the outside while maintaining short cycle times and adequate space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The IML injection molded parts handling device employs a stack injection molding tool with magazine means and label transfer means that allow labels to be transferred perpendicularly along the opening axis, using multi-stage transfer mechanisms and adjustable label transfer means to insert labels into mold matrices from the side, enabling simultaneous handling and transfer of multiple labels, and utilizing conveyor belts for finished parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If magazine means are arranged laterally adjacent to the center plate for IML processes, then labels can be supplied to mold matrices, but sufficient space for arranging magazine means and receiving means is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine means are relocated from a lateral arrangement (along the side axis) to an arrangement along the opening axis, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the stack mold. This dimensional change allows magazine means to be positioned at the ends of the stack mold along the opening axis, providing sufficient space for both magazine means and receiving means without lateral space constraints.
2Ease of operation
If labels are transferred along the lateral axis into mold matrices, then label insertion is enabled, but cycle times are extended
Solution Approach 1:
Labels are pre-positioned on the magazine means along the opening axis before the molding cycle begins. The magazine means are positioned in advance at the optimal location, allowing label transfer to occur during the mold closing action without requiring additional time for lateral positioning or complex transfer mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The label transfer operation is merged with the mold closing operation. As the outer plates move toward the center plate along the opening axis to close the mold, the magazine means simultaneously transfer labels to the mold matrices, combining two operations into one motion sequence and eliminating separate label transfer time.
3Device complexity
If injection molding is performed from the center plate side, then mold structure is simplified, but injection points end up inside the molded part interior
Solution Approach 1:
The stack mold employs an asymmetric arrangement where the center plate contains the mold matrices while the outer plates contain the cores and magazine means. This asymmetric structure enables injection from the center plate side with injection points located on the outer surface of the molded parts, avoiding interior injection points while maintaining structural efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an IML injection molded parts handling device (1) with an injection molding device (2) comprising a multi-level injection molding tool (3), magazine means (M1, M2), receiving means (17) and transfer units.