Patent ID: 6156249
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: B29C

Abstract:
A method for ergonomically positioning first and second mold sections in an ergonomically adjusted relationship comprising the steps of:providing a first mold tipper for the first mold section;providing a second mold tipper for the second mold section;providing a mold rotator and a mold lift for the first mold section;moving the first mold section into a chest-level position by actuating said first mold lift;tipping the first mold section toward an operator and rotating the first mold section to a loading and cleaning position to provide access to the interior thereof for cleaning and loading;following loading and cleaning of the first mold section, tipping the first mold section away from the operator and rotating it into a position more vertical than in said cleaning and loading position;thereafter tipping the second mold section to provide operator access thereto;loading a preform in the second mold section and returning the second mold section to a mold press position;positioning said first mold section vertically downwardly toward said second mold section and rotating said first mold section into an optimized angular position in either said cleaning and loading position or said more vertical position to provide foam head access to said second mold section;thereafter tipping said first mold section into a vertically overlying relationship with said second mold section and operating said mold lift for said first mold section to close said first mold section against said second mold section and for maintaining pressure therebetween;following a predetermined time, opening said first and second mold sections and tipping and rotating the first mold section into the cleaning and loading position for cleaning and thereafter tipping said second mold section for removing a molded product therefrom.