Patent ID: 7165961
Filing Date: 2007-01-23
Classification: B29C,B29L,Y10S

Abstract:
1. In apparatus adapted for compression molding cup-like plastic closures for containers or liners for the closures, said apparatus including a turret supported for rotation on an axis, a plurality of circumferentially spaced plungers supported by said turret for independent movement on corresponding axes parallel to said axis of said turret, and a mold member carried by each said plunger for axial movement therewith, the improvement comprising a quick-change locking coupler recessed within each said plunger and securing the corresponding said mold member to said plunger, each said locking coupler including a cylinder having peripherally spaced holes supporting a plurality of circumferentially spaced balls for corresponding radial movement, an axially projecting stud on said mold member and having an enlarged head portion, a cup-shaped piston surrounding said cylinder and having a recess for receiving said balls in a released position, a spring urging said piston axially to a locked position with said balls engaging said head portion of said stud, a housing confined within said plunger and supporting said piston for axial movement, and said piston is movable axially against said spring to a released position where said balls are received within said recess.