Patent ID: 8337196
Filing Date: 2012-12-25
Classification: B29C

Abstract:
1. In combination, first and second platens of an injection molding machine, a tie bar extending from the second platen to the first platen, and a locking device for releasably securing together the tie bar and the first platen, the locking device comprising: a) a housing extending along an axis coaxial with the tie bar and including a first bearing surface affixed to the first platen; b) a lock nut received in the housing and rotatable within the housing about the axis between locked and unlocked positions, the lock nut comprising: wherein the outer surface has a first diameter at the first position and a second diameter at the second position, the first diameter being less than the first radially outer extent and greater than the second diameter, and wherein the lock nut further comprises a major load portion having a third axial extent bounded by the first step face and a first one of the plurality of radially inwardly projecting engagement elements, the first one of the radially inwardly projecting engagement elements being axially nearest the second platen; and wherein the outer surface of the lock nut along the narrowing section is defined by a tapered surface that starts at the first position and ends at the second position; and wherein the second axial extent of the narrowing section is at least as great as the third axial extent of the major load portion.