Mold insert

An insert for a mold comprising a plug, having an insert face, and a receiver defined by a sidewall with one of the plug and the receiver having a groove that receives a guide that extends from the other of the plug and the receiver so as to facilitate rotation of the plug while opposing withdrawal of the plug. In one preferred embodiment, the groove has an inclined entranceway, that facilitates plug insertion and removal, and a transverse portion and extends circumferentially no more than about one and one-quarter rotation about the plug. In another embodiment, the guide is resiliently urged outwardly from the plug to ride in a groove in the sidewall and the sidewall has an access port for prying free the plug from the receiver. A detent assembly comprised of notches on the plug and a detent carried by the receiver permit the plug to be selectively indexed. The insert can be mounted to or carried by an ejector pin having a head constructed and arranged to prevent rotation of the pin during mold operation. In one preferred pin, a portion of the barrel is machined and hardened before shipment to another location, typically to an end user, where the unmachined portion is cut to length before machining the head and remainder of the barrel.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
 The present invention relates to an insert for a mold for affecting a
 hardenable material in a mold and more particularly to a rotatable insert
 capable of controlling flow of the hardenable material or imprinting an
 indicia into the hardenable material.
 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
 It is common for molds of all kinds to be equipped with multiple mold
 cavities to increase production. However, not all of the cavities are
 needed at all times. Thus, a mechanism is needed which can selectively
 direct flow to one or more cavities or none of the cavities, if desired.
 One such mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,208,053 and consists of
 three pieces, a retainer, a core pin and an outer casing. Unfortunately,
 no provision is disclosed for removing the core pin without knocking out
 the entire mechanism by inserting a pin or screwdriver through a bore in
 the backside of the mold against the retainer. Such a process is time
 consuming which, in turn, increases mold down time, which is very costly.
 Moreover, only four core pin positions are disclosed, limiting the number
 of flow options available. Finally, the mechanism is of no use in
 throttling flow to a particular cavity. When the core pin is disposed in
 one position, a pin disposed between the retainer and core pin prevents
 rotation of the core pin. To rotate the core pin to redirect flow, the pin
 must be pushed into the retainer which is time consuming and difficult.
 Such an insert is also ill-suited for imprinting an indicia, such as the
 date, time and material type into the hardenable material.
 What is needed, therefore, is a rotatable mold insert that can be quickly
 and easily removed or inserted. What is further needed is an insert that
 can be quickly, easily, and precisely indexed. What is also needed is an
 insert that can accommodate any kind of insert including, for example,
 flow-directing inserts and indicia-imprinting inserts. What is still
 further needed is an insert that is versatile and capable of different
 functions. What is still further needed is an insert that can be carried
 by or mounted to one end of an ejector pin.
 OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
 An insert for a mold for diverting flow of a hardenable material or
 imprinting an indicia into the hardenable material wherein the insert
 comprises a plug that is rotatable and which can be quickly and easily
 removed, when needed, and replaced, if desired. In operation, while the
 mold halves are separated, the plug can be rotated using a tool, such as a
 screwdriver, to the desired setting. During mold operation, the plug has
 an insert face that can have, for example, one or more flow directing
 channels or an indicia that is imprinted into the hardenable material.
 The plug has an outer axial face that is in contact with the hardenable
 material. The plug has a body that preferably is generally cylindrical,
 includes a larger head carrying the insert face, and which is received in
 a receiver that preferably comprises pocket formed by a sidewall. The
 pocket preferably is formed in one of the mold halves, an ejector pin,
 another mold component, or a removable cup. A rotating mechanism operably
 cooperates with the plug and the receiver such that the plug is rotatable
 and preferably indexable.
 In one preferred embodiment, one of the plug and the receiver has a groove
 that receives a guide that extends from the other of the plug and the
 receiver so as to facilitate rotation of the plug while opposing
 withdrawal of the plug. The guide is a protrusion that preferably
 comprises a pin or a ball.
 The guide is a locator that is urged toward the groove. For example, the
 guide can be urged radially toward the groove by a pin, a finger, or a
 spring. The finger preferably comprises a leaf spring or beam spring
 anchored by a fastener. The finger preferably is a coil spring retained by
 a screw or bolt. The spring can comprise a spring plunger or the like.
 In one preferred embodiment, the groove extends about the circumference of
 the plug and is contoured so as to accept the guide. The groove has a
 transverse portion and an entranceway that is inclined relative to the
 transverse portion. The entranceway is constructed and arranged to accept
 the guide to facilitate fast and easy insertion of the plug into the
 receiver and removal of the plug from the receiver.
 In its preferred embodiment, the groove is comprised of a single transverse
 portion and a single entranceway. The transverse portion extends no more
 than about one revolution about the plug and the entranceway extends less
 than one revolution about the plug. Preferably, the entranceway is
 inclined at an acute angle relative to the transverse groove portion. In
 one preferred groove embodiment, the groove is at least about 0.040 inches
 wide, preferably at least 0.070 inches wide, and at least about 0.020
 inches deep, its transverse portion extends between about 250.degree. and
 about 330.degree. around the plug body, and its entranceway is inclined at
 an angle of between about 20.degree. and about 40.degree.. Preferably, the
 entranceway extends between about 40.degree. and about 60.degree. around
 the plug body. Preferably, the entranceway and transverse portion extend
 at least about two-thirds of a revolution about the body and no more than
 about 300.degree. about the body.
 So that the plug can be rotated to one of a number of predetermined
 positions, the head of the plug has a shoulder, formed where the plug
 diametrically necks down to the body, that cooperates with a detent
 assembly. The detent assembly preferably comprises a plurality of
 circumferentially spaced apart notches in an axial surface of the shoulder
 that cooperate with one or more detents in the pocket. The detent
 preferably is a pin or a ball that can be resiliently biased toward the
 shoulder to facilitate ease of rotation and indexing.
 To rotate or remove the plug from the pocket, a tool, such as a blade of a
 screwdriver, engages the face of the plug head to rotate the plug. To
 remove the plug, the plug is rotated in one direction until the guide
 reaches the entranceway. Further rotation in the one direction causes the
 guide to ride further along the entranceway until it reaches the mouth or
 opening of the entranceway thereby freeing the plug completely from the
 pocket. As the guide rides along the entranceway, the angle of the
 entranceway displaces the plug such that its face is no longer flush with
 the mold, cup or ejector pin carrying the plug so that it can be manually
 removed.
 In inserting the plug, the plug is dropped into the pocket and rotated in
 the opposite direction until the guide enters the mouth of the
 entranceway. Further rotation causes the guide to ride along the
 entranceway until the plug completely retracts into the pocket such that
 the face is flush with the mold, the ejector pin, or the cup carrying the
 plug. Further rotation causes the guide to traverse from the entranceway
 to the transverse portion.
 In another preferred embodiment, the plug has a protrusion that registers
 with a groove in the inner sidewall that forms the pocket. Preferably, the
 protrusion is a ball that is biased outwardly from the plug body by a wad
 received within a hollow in the body. The wad preferably is comprised of
 an elastomeric material or another resilient synthetic or natural
 material. A cap or core at one end of the plug body engages the body to
 retain the wad within the plug. In its preferred embodiment, the cap is a
 screw or bolt.
 The head of the plug is received in a complimentary recess in the pocket.
 Preferably, the recess is configured so as to receive the head such that
 the outer axial face of the head is substantially flush with the
 surrounding mold or cup.
 So that the plug can be selectively indexed, a detent mechanism or assembly
 cooperates with the plug. The detent mechanism comprises a detent carried
 by the mold, the pin or the cup that cooperates with at least one of a
 plurality of detent notches in the axial end of the plug body. In its
 preferred form, the detent comprises a pin or ball that extends generally
 radially inwardly into the pocket.
 To facilitate removal of the plug, there is an access port in the sidewall.
 A tool is inserted through the port where it is used to pry the plug
 upwardly relative to the pocket so it can be grasped and removed.
 Where a cup is used, the cup has an endwall and an endless sidewall that
 preferably is cylindrical to form a cylindrical pocket. The cup can be
 received in its own pocket in the mold that can comprise a bore or an
 indention in the mold. Where disposed in its own pocket, a fastener
 secures the cup to the mold. The endwall has a bore through which the
 fastener is inserted such that it is received in a threaded bore in the
 mold. The bore in the endwall is threaded and larger than the bore in the
 mold so the fastener can be removed and a jackscrew inserted to remove the
 cup from its pocket when it is desired to remove the cup.
 An insert of this invention can be mounted to or carried by an ejector pin.
 The ejector pin includes a removable head and a barrel that can be cut to
 the desired length for the mold into which it is to be assembled. In one
 preferred mounting arrangement, the head has a recess with a locator,
 preferably a flat, that receives a complementary end of the barrel. The
 end of the head has a bore that receives a fastener that threads into the
 barrel to mount the head to the barrel. The head has a locator, preferably
 a flat, that registers with a complementary locator of an ejector plate
 assembly of the mold to keep the ejector pin from rotating during mold
 operation. By preventing pin rotation, circumferential or angular location
 of the outer axial face of the insert is maintained during mold operation.
 In another ejector pin embodiment, the end of the barrel is threaded and
 threadably received in a threaded bore in the head. In one preferred head
 arrangement, the head can be generally U-shaped having a pair of arms
 separated by a gap that is closed to clamp the arms around the barrel when
 a fastener engages both arms. When assembled, the head preferably is
 incapable of rotating relative to the barrel.
 In another preferred head arrangement, the head has an axially extending
 locator groove in the threaded end that receives a radially inwardly
 extending locator of a locator ring or washer that is received in a recess
 in the head. The ring has at least one and preferably a plurality of
 circumferentially spaced apart locators that are received in locator
 notches of the recess. When assembled, the ring prevents the barrel from
 rotating relative to the head.
 In still another preferred ejector pin embodiment, the pin is partially
 formed and completed at a remote location that can be, for example, where
 the mold is located, a mold manufacturing plant, a distributor, or an end
 user. The pin is partially finished from a blank that preferably is bar
 stock or round stock partially machined to form at least a portion of the
 barrel. The outer surface of the barrel is hardened by a hardening process
 such as shot peening, nitriding, or another suitable hardening process.
 In finishing the pin, preferably after shipment to the remote location, the
 length of the pin is selected and the unmachined portion is machined to
 form the head. Typically, a portion of the unmachined portion is cut to
 cut the pin to the desired length before the head and remainder of the
 barrel are machined.
 If desired, a locator, such as a locator flat or the like, can be machined
 into the head to keep the head and barrel from rotating during operation.
 If desired, an insert can be mounted to the end of the barrel opposite the
 ejector pin head.
 Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention include a mold
 insert that is easy to install in a mold; is easily removed; is quick and
 easy to rotate; is quick and easy to change; minimizes mold downtime; can
 be installed on an ejector pin; and is an insert that is rugged, simple,
 flexible, reliable, and durable, and which is of economical manufacture
 and is easy to assemble, install, and use.
 Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention include an
 ejector pin that is easy to install in a mold; maintains location of an
 insert mounted thereto; is efficient to manufacture because it is cut to
 length after initial manufacture; and is an ejector pin that is rugged,
 simple, flexible, reliable, and durable, and which is of economical
 manufacture and is easy to assemble, install, and use.
 Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will
 become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description
 and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the
 detailed description and accompanying drawings, while indicating preferred
 embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of illustration and
 not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the
 scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof,
 and the invention includes all such modifications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
 I. Introduction
 FIGS. 1-4 depict a mold 40 having a plurality of cavities 42, 44, 46, and
 48, and a plurality of inserts 50a-50c and 52a-52c of this invention for
 controlling the flow of material 53 (FIG. 3) being communicated to one or
 more of the cavities 42, 44, 46 and 48 and for imparting an indicia to
 material 53 in one or more of the cavities 42 and 44 as the material 53 in
 the cavities 42 and 44 hardens. Each insert 50 and 52 includes a rotating
 mechanism to enable it to rotate relative to the mold 40. Each insert 50
 and 52 preferably is indexable to certain positions to control or divert
 flow or to select a particular indicia to imprint into the hardenable
 material 53 in the mold cavity.
 Referring to FIG. 5, one preferred rotating mechanism 54 has a plug 56 with
 a circular groove 58 that is received in a receiver that, in this
 instance, comprises a cup 64. The groove 58 has a helical portion 60 that
 enables the insert to be easily removed when rotated beyond a certain
 point. The groove 58 also has an axial or transverse portion 62 that
 enables the insert 50 or 52 to be rotated relative to the cup 64.
 Another preferred rotating mechanism 66 has a plug 68 that utilizes a
 biasing element 70 that outwardly urges a locator 72 that rides in an
 internal groove 74 in a cup 76 that helps retain the plug 68 in the cup 76
 while allowing it to rotate relative to the cup 76.
 Preferably, each rotating mechanism 54 and 66 can be constructed with at
 least a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart detents so the plug
 and insert carried by the plug can be selectively indexed to certain
 settings when rotated.
 II. Mold Construction
 One portion of an exemplary mold 40 is shown in FIG. 1. The mold portion
 preferably is a mold half 84 having an exterior mold cavity surface 78
 with at least one recess or cavity 42, 44, 46 or 48 for receiving a
 material 53 that preferably is a liquid but which is hardenable. The mold
 40 has another portion, preferably another mold half, that also has an
 exterior mold cavity surface that can have one or more recesses that are
 mold cavities. One or both mold halves preferably has a plurality of
 locator bores 80 each for receiving a guide pin 82 that accurately locates
 one mold half 84 relative to the other mold half such that when the mold
 halves are brought together they accurately mate or register with one
 another.
 In the exemplary mold half 84 shown in FIG. 1, one of the cavities 44 has a
 single insert 50b for imprinting on material 53 within the cavity 44 as it
 hardens the day and year of molding. Another of the cavities 42 has a pair
 of the indicia-imprinting inserts 50a and 50c each for leaving an imprint
 or imprinting an indicia on the exterior of an object being molded in the
 cavity 42.
 So that the material 53 can reach each mold cavity 42, 44, 46, and 48,
 there is a runner 86, that serves as a supply channel, that is connected
 to individual feeder channels, referred to as subrunners 88, each of which
 leads to a cavity. One or both mold halves has an sprue puller 90 that
 leads from a source of the flowable material 53 preferably to the supply
 channel 86.
 As is shown in FIG. 1, one or more of the channels 86 and 88 can have an
 insert 52, referred to as a flow diverter, that is constructed and
 arranged to control flow through the channel. One of the flow controlling
 inserts 52c is located in the supply channel 86 where it branches to a
 pair of the feeder channels 88. The flow control insert 52c can be rotated
 to completely block flow through both feeder channels 88, block flow
 through any one of the feeder channels 88, permit flow through either
 feeder channel 88, or permit flow through both feeder channels 88.
 Another of the flow controlling inserts 52a, referred to as a runner flow
 shutoff, is disposed in one of the feeder channels 88 for blocking or
 allowing flow through the channel 88. If desired, the runner flow shutoff
 insert 52a can be disposed in one of the supply channels 86.
 Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the mold 40 has a body 92 carrying the top mold
 cavity surface 78, a lower clamp plate base 94 and a pair of risers 96
 (sidewalls) supported on the base 94 which in turn supports the mold body
 92. The mold body 92, sidewalls 96 and base 94 define therein an ejector
 chamber 98 in which is located an ejector plate assembly 100. The ejector
 plate assembly 100 is coupled to at least one ejector pin 102 of this
 invention.
 Referring to FIG. 2, the ejector plate assembly 100 has an upper ejector
 plate 104 and a lower backing plate 106 that are fastened together capture
 one end of each of the ejector pins 102 such that each ejector pin 102
 moves substantially in unison with the plates 104 and 106. The opposite
 end of each ejector pin 102 is slidably telescopically received in a bore
 in the mold body 92. FIG. 3 shows a conventional ejector pin 103 of
 one-piece, unitary construction. A pair of spaced apart stops 108 are
 shown in FIG. 2 carried by the base 94 within the chamber 98 for
 preventing the backing plate 106 from bottoming out directly against the
 base 94.
 The plates 104 and 106 are preferably connected to prime mover that can be
 a lift or a cylinder, such as a hydraulic cylinder or gas cylinder (not
 shown). During operation, the plates 104 and 106 and pins 102 are raised
 after the material 53 in the mold cavity associated with the pin or pins
 has suitably hardened. When the pins are raised, the free end of each pins
 bears against the hardened material 53 in the mold to eject it from the
 mold so it can be removed.
 The mold 40 shown in the drawing figures is an exemplary mold. The novel
 inserts 50 and 52, rotating mechanisms 54 and 66, and injector pins 102
 disclosed herein are capable of being used with other mold configurations,
 with other types of molds, and in other types of molding environments.
 Ejector Pin
 As is shown in FIG. 2, one of the inserts is mounted to the end 118 of each
 ejector pin 102. Of course, the ejector pin 102 of this invention can be
 used with no insert.
 Each pin 102 is constructed of a strong and resilient material, that can be
 a metal, a composite, a polymeric material, a thermoset material, or
 another suitable material. Preferably, each pin 102 is constructed of
 steel that preferably is a stainless steel, such as surface hardened H13
 steel, or the like.
 As is shown in FIG. 2, each pin 102 of this invention has a head 110 at one
 end that is mounted to an elongate barrel 112. The head 110 is preferably
 mounted to the barrel 112 by a fastener 114, such as a screw or a bolt,
 that is extends through a bore 126 (FIG. 9A) in the head and which is
 threadably received in a threaded bore 128 in the end 120 of the barrel
 112.
 For example, the fastener 114 can be a cap screw, set screw, a machine
 screw, or the like. If desired, the head 110 can be mounted using another
 type of fastener or fastening method. For example, a fastener that is an
 adhesive, such as a glue, solder, or another adhesive material can be used
 to mount the head 110 to the barrel 112. If desired, the head 110 can be
 fastened to the barrel 112 by another fastener that is a weld 122 (FIG.
 7). Such a weld 122 can be created using any suitable welding process
 including arc welding, friction welding, inertia welding, friction
 welding, laser welding, electron beam welding, or the like. If desired,
 the head 110 can be fastened to the barrel 112 by a friction fit, an
 interference fit, or the like.
 Referring to FIG. 9A, the barrel 112 of the pin 102 preferably has a
 locator flat 116 at its end 120 opposite its free end 118. The head 110
 has a recessed land 124 that, in turn, defines an upraised sidewall 130
 that is substantially complementary to the cross sectional shape of the
 barrel end 120. In the preferred embodiment shown in drawing FIGS. 4, 11,
 and 15, for example, the bore 126 in the head 110 extends completely
 through the head 110. To threadably receive the fastener 114, the bore 128
 in the end 120 of the barrel 112 preferably is internally threaded but can
 be unthreaded, or have radially inwardly extending axial or radial ridges,
 or the like.
 The sidewall 130 around the recessed land 124 has a locator 132 against
 which the locator 116 of the barrel 112 bears when the barrel 112 is
 inserted into the recessed land 124. Preferably, the locator 132 is a flat
 in an inner radial portion of the sidewall 130.
 When the barrel 112 is mated to the head 110, the locator 116 if the barrel
 112 registers with the locator 132 of the head 110. The locators 116 and
 132 and recessed land 130 help radially center the barrel 112 on the head
 110. The locators 116 and 132 also help circumferentially locate the
 barrel 112 relative to the head 110 so the axially outermost surface of an
 insert mounted to the barrel 112 is desirably located or oriented relative
 to the mold cavity within which it is received. The locators 116 and 132
 still further prevent relative rotation between the head 110 and barrel
 112 so that the insert maintains its desired angular location or
 orientation during mold operation.
 When assembly is completed, the head 110 and barrel 112 form an ejector pin
 102 of this invention that behaves as a pin 103 (FIG. 3) of one-piece,
 integral and unitary construction. When assembly is completed, the head
 110 and barrel 112 form a pin 102 of this invention that advantageously
 functions as a pin 103 of one-piece construction.
 As is shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the head 110 of each pin 102 is captured
 between the upper ejector plate 104 and the lower ejector plate or lower
 backup plate 106. The upper ejector plate 104 has a recess complementary
 to the shape of the head 110 for receiving and locating the head 110. The
 upper plate 104 also has a bore through which the barrel 112 of the pin
 102 projects. The upper plate 104 also includes a locator 134 that
 registers with an outer locator 136 of the pin head 110. Preferably, the
 outer locator 136 is a flat portion in the exterior of the sidewall 130.
 Preferably, the locator 134 in the ejector plate 104 is a flat portion
 that is complementary to locator 136.
 When assembled between the ejector plates 104 and 106, the pin 102 moves in
 unison with the plates 104 and 106. As a result of the locators 134 and
 136 registering with each other, the pin 102 will not rotate relative to
 the plates 104 and 106 or the mold 40 during operation. By this
 advantageous construction, the pin 102, and any insert 50 carried by the
 pin 102, also cannot rotate thereby maintaining the angular location of
 any insert 50 carried by the pin 102.
 Referring to FIG. 9A, the barrel 112 of the pin 102 can be cut, such as
 along phantom line 138, to accommodate the mold 40 into which it is to be
 assembled. This enables the barrel 112 of the pin 102 to be of a standard
 length that is cut to the desired length for the type or size of mold into
 which it is to be installed. Of course, as is depicted in FIG. 9A, the
 desired length of the pin 102, denoted by phantom line 138, typically is
 shorter than the standard barrel length.
 In this manner, the ejector pin 102 of this invention can be assembled of
 standard length and size components and cut to the length required by the
 specific mold into which it is to be assembled before its assembly into
 the mold. This can be done prior to shipment or after shipment of the pin
 102, by an end user. An example of such an end user can be a mold maker,
 or a user or operator of the mold.
 This also enables a pin 102 with an insert 50 to be manufactured as an
 assembly, such as is shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 7, prior to its installation
 into a mold 40. Even with an insert 50, the barrel 112 can be cut to size
 by either a mold-maker or an operator or user of the mold. So that the pin
 102 can be used with molds of many different types and sizes, the locator
 surface 116 preferably is at least about two inches long. For pins 102
 having a diameter of at least about one-quarter inches, the locator
 surface 116 is even longer and preferably is at least about four inches
 long.
 The barrel 112 can be cut in any manner. For example, an abrasive cutting
 method can be used, such as a saw, a wire EDM, a lathe, or another cutting
 process. If desired, a laser, oxyacetylene, or the like can be used. If
 desired, another nonabrasive cutting or material removal method can be
 used. Preferably, the barrel 112 is cut such that the cut end is generally
 flat so that the axis of the barrel 112 is generally perpendicular to the
 lengthwise direction of the head 110 when assembled thereto. Preferably,
 the barrel 112 is cut such that its end is substantially square with the
 head 110.
 In one preferred method, the desired length of the pin 102 is determined
 and the barrel 112 is marked with a cut line 138 such that the pin 102
 will have the desired length when the head 110 is assembled. Thereafter,
 using the marked cut line 138, the barrel 112 is cut. After cutting is
 completed, the head 110 is assembled to the barrel 112 forming the pin
 102. After the pin 102 is assembled, the pin 102 is installed in the mold
 40 such that the pin 102 is captured by an ejector plate assembly.
 Preferably, the pin 102 is assembled such that its head 110 is captured by
 ejector plate assembly 100.
 Another preferred ejector pin embodiment 102a (FIG. 21), including its head
 140, barrel 148, and novel mounting arrangement, is shown in FIG. 21. The
 head 140 has a bore 142 with internal threads 144 for receiving and
 threadably engaging a threaded portion 146 of the barrel 148 that is
 located at the end of the barrel 148. Only a portion of the barrel 148 is
 shown in FIG. 21. The head 140 has an axially inwardly extending recess or
 counterbore 150 that is defined by an upraised sidewall 152 and faces
 toward the barrel 148 when the barrel 148 is assembled to the head 140.
 The radially inner surface of the sidewall 152 has a plurality of pairs of
 generally arcuate notches 154 forming an arcuately notched radial inner
 periphery.
 A coupling ring 156 is used to help couple the barrel 148 to the head 140
 such that there is no relative rotation between the barrel 148 and head
 140. The ring 156 is received in the counterbore 150 in the head 140. The
 ring 156 has a pair of radially outwardly extending, circumferentially
 spaced apart, and preferably arcuate projections 158 that are each
 received in one of the notches 154 thereby preventing the ring 156 from
 rotating relative to the head 140. An arcuate locator projection 160 that
 extends radially inwardly from the ring 156 is received in a radially
 inwardly extending locator groove 162 that extends axially at least a
 portion of the length of the barrel 148. As is shown in FIG. 21, the
 groove 162 extends axially from the threaded end 164 of the barrel 148
 toward the opposite end. So that the barrel 148 is of sufficient length so
 it can be cut to a wide variety of lengths, the groove 162 is elongate and
 preferably terminates axially beyond the threaded portion 146 at an
 unthreaded portion 166 of the barrel 148. If desired, the ring 156 can be
 a washer.
 In use, after the barrel 148 is cut to length, the ring 156 is placed over
 the threaded end 146 of the barrel 148, and the barrel 148 is threaded
 into the head 140. When the barrel 149 is threaded sufficiently far into
 the head 140, the ring 156 is urged axially toward the head 140 until the
 ring 156 is received in the recess 150 such that its locators 158 are
 received into locator notches 154 in the head 140. When the ring 156 is
 received in the recess 150, it functions as a locking mechanism to prevent
 the barrel 148 from rotating relative to the head 140. So that both the
 head 140 and barrel 148 do not rotate relative to the ejector plate
 assembly 100, the head 140 can have a locator, such as the locator surface
 136 shown in FIG. 15.
 FIG. 22 depicts another preferred ejector pin embodiment 102b. The barrel
 170 has a threaded portion 172 adjacent one end that is threaded into a
 threaded bore 174 in the head 176. The head 176 is generally U-shaped and
 comprises a pair of arms 178 and 180 clamped around the threaded portion
 172 by a fastener 182 that joins the arms 178 and 189 together.
 Preferably, the fastener 182 extends through a bore in one of the arms 178
 into a threaded bore in the other of the arms 180.
 FIG. 23 illustrates a novel ejector pin blank 184 from which an ejector pin
 103 (FIG. 3) of one-piece and unitary construction is constructed. The
 blank 184 comprises a hardened barrel portion 186 and an unhardened
 portion 188 that can be cut to the desired length and turned on a lathe to
 form the ejector pin head 190 (shown in phantom). The ejector pin blank
 184 preferably is shipped substantially in the form shown in FIG. 23 to an
 end user, such as a mold operator or the like, who can complete
 manufacture of the ejector pin by cutting the unhardened portion 188 to
 size and thereafter turning it to form the head 190. If desired, the
 unhardened portion 188 can be cut to size substantially simultaneously
 while it is being turned.
 For example, for the blank shown in FIG. 23, a portion of the end of the
 bar stock can be cut to phantom line 194 or turned to phantom line 194.
 The bar stock is also turned to phantom line 196 to form the head 190.
 When turning of the head 190 is finished, it results in an ejector pin 103
 of one-piece and unitary construction, such as the ejector pin 103 shown
 in FIG. 3, having a length suitable for the mold in which it is to be
 installed.
 In a method of making the blank 184, bar stock comprised of a metal or
 another machinable material is machined to form a necked down portion 186
 having a diameter less than that of the bar stock and the unhardened
 portion 188. Preferably, the bar stock is machined by turning it on a
 lathe, or by using another material removal process, to provide the necked
 down portion 186. Thereafter, the necked down portion 186 preferably is
 hardened, such as by a nitriding or another surface hardening process,
 such that the exterior of portion 186 is hardened about its circumference
 from the end 192 of the blank 184 substantially to the unhardened portion
 188. The diametrically necked down portion 186 is hardened to a depth of
 at least about one micron, and as much as one-hundred microns, about the
 periphery of the pin barrel to minimize wear of the pin 103 as it is
 repeatedly reciprocated in the mold 40 during operation.
 The bar stock preferably is comprised of a machinable or formable material
 that is suitable for use as an ejector pin 103. One preferred bar stock
 material is H13 steel alloy because it can be easily machined or formed
 while possessing good wear resistance and toughness. Other metals and
 alloys can be used.
 Insert
 1. Indicia Imprinting Insert
 FIGS. 1, 10, 12 and 14C shows three different exemplary and preferred
 indicia-imprinting inserts 50a, 50b, and 50c carried by the mold and each
 of which are disposed in a mold cavity. Where an indicia-imprinting insert
 is not referred to by letter a, b, or c, it is generally referred to as
 reference numeral 50. An indicia-imprinting insert 50 of this invention is
 constructed and arranged to leave an imprint of its outer surface 198 when
 the hardenable material 53 in the cavity has hardened.
 Referring to FIGS. 1 and 12, one such insert 50a is mounted to a pin 102 in
 cavity 42 and is constructed such that it preferably does not rotate. The
 insert 50a preferably is used to imprint the type of hardenable material
 53 being molded. For example, the insert 50a indicates material no. 7 for
 polypropylene.
 Referring to FIGS. 1 and 10, another such insert 50c is mounted to a pin
 102 in the cavity 42 and which has a removable circular centrally located,
 indicia-imprinting outer insert surface 200 carried by plug 68. The plug
 68 is received within a pair of generally concentric indicia-imprinting
 rings 202 and 204. Both the center insert surface 200 and the inner ring
 202 preferably can be rotated, both relative to each other and relative to
 the outer ring 204.
 The insert 50c is used to imprint the date, month and year into the
 hardenable material 53 being molded. The center insert surface 200
 imprints the year and an arrow 201 that indicates the month of molding,
 with the months imprinted by the inner ring 202. The inner ring 202 also
 has an arrow 203 that indicates the day of the month, with the days of the
 month imprinted by the outer ring 204. The arrows 201 and 203 preferably
 are recessed so as to accept a blade of a screwdriver to quickly and
 easily turn the insert surface 200 or ring 202.
 Referring to FIGS. 1, 9A, and 14C, a still further such insert 50b is
 mounted to the pin 102 in another cavity 44 which has a central, circular
 indicia-imprinting insert surface 206, which is rotatable, and an outer
 indicia-imprinting ring 208 that preferably is stationary. The insert 50b
 is used to imprint the month and year into the hardenable material 53
 being molded.
 Each of the aforementioned inserts 50 imprint a specific indicia. Other
 inserts 50 are possible that fall within the scope of the invention,
 including inserts that imprint messages, pictures, trademark symbols,
 trademarks, trade names, model numbers, part numbers, the time of
 manufacture, time of expiration, and other messages, symbols, or
 functions.
 Each insert 50 preferably is carried by an ejector pin 102 or 103. However,
 where the insert 50 has a portion that is rotatable, it need not be
 carried by an ejector pin 102 but can reside in the mold cavity,
 preferably within a pocket in the cavity.
 2. Runner Flow Shut-Off Insert
 FIGS. 1 and 5 depict a runner flow shut-off insert 52a. The insert 52a has
 a channel 210 in its outer surface 212 and is constructed and arranged to
 control flow of hardenable material 53 from an upstream portion of a
 feeder channel 88 to a downstream portion of the channel 88. The insert
 52a can be rotated to a first position, shown in FIG. 1, that obstructs
 flow to one of the mold cavities 46 by obstructing flow through the feeder
 channel 88. The insert 52a can also be rotated to a second position where
 the channel 210 aligns with the feeder channel 88 for permitting flow
 through to the mold cavity 46. Preferably, the insert 52a is rotated about
 90.degree. to move between the first position, i.e. a closed position, and
 the second position, i.e. and open position.
 3. Flow Diverter Insert
 FIGS. 1, and 16-20 illustrate flow diverter inserts 52b and 52c for
 controlling flow of the hardenable material 53 to a single mold cavity 48,
 a pair of cavities 42 and 44, or more than two cavities. The insert 52b
 and 52c has a pair of channels 214 and 216 disposed at an angle relative
 to each other that is rotated between a plurality of positions to divert
 flow to one or more mold cavities or to completely obstruct flow to any
 cavity.
 In one preferred insert 52b, the insert 52b has one channel 214 disposed at
 about a 90.degree. angle relative to another channel 216. Referring to
 FIG. 1, the insert 52b has a first position, an open position, where one
 of the channels 216 is generally aligned with the supply channel 86 and
 the other of the channels 214 is aligned with the feeder channel 88 that
 extends to the cavity 48 for permitting flow of hardenable material 53 to
 the cavity 48. When the insert 52b rotated away from the open position,
 such as the closed position shown in FIG. 3, the channels 214 and 216 are
 no longer aligned with channels 86 and 88 and flow is obstructed to the
 cavity 48. If desired, the insert 52b can be indexed at specific angular
 increments, such as about 90.degree. for example, such that the insert 52b
 can be moved about 90.degree. between its open position, permitting flow,
 and a closed position, obstructing flow, that is disposed from the open
 position.
 In another preferred insert 52c, shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 16, the insert
 has a pair of channels 214 and 216 arranged in a T-shape capable of
 controlling flow to a pair of cavities 42 and 44. The first channel 214
 extends the length of the insert 52c and the second channel 216 is
 disposed at an angle relative to the first channel 214 and intercepts the
 channel 214. Preferably, the second channel 216 is disposed at about a
 90.degree. angle relative to the first channel 216.
 Referring to FIG. 16, the cup 64' also has channels 284, 286 and 288.
 Referring to FIG. 20, channel 284 is aligned with channel 86, channel 286
 is aligned with channel 88, and channel 288 is aligned with channel 88.
 Referring to FIGS. 17-20, the insert 52c can be disposed in a plurality of
 positions for diverting flow of material 53 to either one or both cavities
 42 and 44. FIG. 17 shows the insert 52c disposed in a first position
 diverting flow to one cavity 42. FIG. 18 shows the insert 52c disposed in
 a second position diverting flow to another cavity 44. FIG. 19 shows the
 insert 52c in a third position diverting flow to both cavities 42 and 44.
 FIG. 20 shows the insert 52c disposed in a fourth position obstructing
 flow to both cavities 42 and 44. Preferably, the insert 52c is indexable
 in angular increments of about 90.degree..
 While two cavities 42 and 44 are shown, the insert 52 can be constructed to
 distribute flow to more than two cavities, if desired. Of course, such an
 insert 52 would have more than four positions.
 Referring to FIG. 16, to rotate any of the inserts 52a, 52b, and 52c, a
 tool 290 engages the insert and is manually rotated while the mold 40 is
 open. Preferably, the tool 290 is a screwdriver. Preferably, the blade 292
 of the screwdriver 290 is received in one of the channels, such as channel
 214, in the insert and the screwdriver 290 and insert are rotated in
 unison.
 Rotating Mechanism
 Each insert 50 and 52 can be carried by a rotating mechanism 54 or 66 of
 this invention. The rotating mechanism 54 or 66 can be constructed simply
 to permit the insert 50 or 52 to rotate and be positioned at any angular
 position, between any limits of rotation the rotating mechanism 54 or 66
 may possess. Preferably, the rotating mechanism 54 or 66 is constructed to
 permit the insert 50 or 52 to be selectively rotated or indexed between a
 finite number of positions.
 1. First Preferred Embodiment
 FIGS. 2-6 illustrate a first preferred rotating mechanism 54 for rotatably
 receiving an insert, such as the aforementioned indicia-imprinting inserts
 50a, 50b, or 50c, the runner flow shut-off insert 52a, the flow diverter
 insert 52b or 52c, or another insert. The insert is attached to or
 integral with the plug 56 that is received in the sleeve-like cup 64. The
 cup 64 is either integral with the mold 40 or ejector pin 102 or is a
 separate cup 64', such as is shown in FIGS. 3 and 9B, that is mounted to
 one end of the pin 102 or received in a pocket 218 in the mold 40.
 Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the plug 56 has a head 220 that is larger than
 the plug body or stem 222. The plug body or stem 222 has a groove or
 thread 58 that extends about the circumference of the body 222. As is
 shown in more detail in FIG. 6, the groove 58 is open 61 at one end to
 permit the plug 56 to easily accept the locator or guide 240 carried by
 the cup 64 or 64' so the plug 56 can be quickly and easily inserted into
 the cup 64 or 64'. Conversely, this construction also enables the plug 56
 to be quickly and easily removed from the cup 64 or 64'.
 An entranceway portion 60 of the groove 58 is disposed at an arcuate angle
 relative to a portion 62 of the groove 58 that is generally transverse to
 the lengthwise direction of the plug 56. Preferably, the entranceway
 portion 60 is generally helical. The opening 61 in the entranceway groove
 portion 60 permits the plug 56 to be positively received and retained by
 the cup 64 or 64'. The entranceway 60 extends in one direction to an axial
 end 224 of the body 222 where its opening 61 is constructed to accept the
 guide 240. The entranceway groove portion 60 extends in an opposite
 direction to the transverse groove portion 62. The groove portion 62 has
 an end wall 63 that functions as a stop to limit rotation of the plug 56.
 Preferably, the groove 58 is at least about 0.040 inches wide, preferably
 at least about 0.07 inches wide, and at least about 0.020 inches deep so
 it will accept a ball 240 of at least about 0.076 inches diameter such
 that the plug 56 will be retained in the cup 64 or 64' during operation.
 The transverse portion 62 of the groove 56 preferably extends at least
 about 250.degree. around the body 222 such that the plug can be rotated
 about the same amount without axially displacing relative to the cup. The
 transverse portion 62 preferably extends no more than about 330.degree.
 around the body 222.
 The groove entrance portion 60 is acutely angled relative to the transverse
 groove portion 62. Referring to FIG. 6, the groove entrance portion 60 is
 angled at an angle, .alpha., of about 30.degree. relative to the
 transverse groove portion 62 for maximizing the angular range of rotation
 of the plug. Preferably, the groove entrance portion 60 is angled at an
 angle, .alpha., of no greater than about 45.degree. and at least about
 20.degree.. Preferably, the groove entranceway 60 extends between about
 40.degree. and about 60.degree. around the plug body 222. Preferably, the
 entranceway 60 and transverse portion 62 extend at least about two-thirds
 of a revolution about the body 222 and no more than about 300.degree.
 about the body 222.
 The groove 58 preferably comprises is a radially inwardly extending channel
 of arcuate, hemispherical, triangular, square or another profile. In its
 preferred embodiment, the groove 58 encircles the outer periphery of the
 plug 56 no more than once.
 Referring to FIG. 8, the cup 64 or 64' has a bottom wall 226, a sidewall
 228, and an opening 230 defining a cavity 232 into which the plug 56 is
 received. The cavity 232 has a shape substantially complementary to the
 plug 56 so that when the plug 56 is inserted into the cavity 232, its top
 surface is flush with the top surface of the cup 64 or 64'. The cavity 232
 has a diametrically larger portion 234 for receiving the head 220 of the
 plug 56 and a shoulder 235 that defines a diametrically smaller portion
 236 for receiving the body 222 of the plug 56. The cup 64 or 64' has a
 radially inwardly extending guide 240 that is received in the groove 58 of
 the plug 56 when the plug 56 is inserted into the cavity 232.
 Referring to FIG. 5, the inwardly extending guide 240 preferably has a
 contour such that it can be positively received in the groove 58 and
 retain the plug 56 in the cup 64' or 64. Preferably, the plug 56 cannot be
 withdrawn from the cup 64 or 64' when the guide 240 is received in the
 transverse groove portion 62. In its preferred embodiment, the guide 240
 is a ball, such as a ball bearing or the like. The sidewall 228 has a bore
 242 that extends from the exterior of the sidewall 228 inwardly into the
 cavity 232 for receiving the guide ball 240. The width or diameter of the
 bore 242 preferably tapers at least slightly at its cavity end to prevent
 the ball 240 from passing completely through the bore 242 into the cavity
 232.
 As is shown in FIG. 8, the guide ball 240 is captured in the bore 242 by a
 cap 244 attached to the sidewall 228 by a bolt or screw 246 that is
 threaded into a threaded bore in the sidewall 228. If desired, the cap 244
 can resiliently bias the ball 240 into the cavity 232. The cap 244
 preferably is received in a recess 248 in the exterior of the cup sidewall
 228.
 Referring to FIG. 5, the ball 240 can be captured in the bore 242 by an
 axially extending pin 250. The pin 250 preferably extends outwardly from
 the cup 64' into a bore in the mold 40 (FIG. 3) or into a bore 252 in the
 ejector pin 102 (FIG. 4) for locating the insert and rotating mechanism
 while also preventing inadvertent rotation of the insert and rotating
 mechanism during operation.
 Referring to FIG. 5, to enable the plug 56 to be selectively rotated to
 specific positions during operation, a bottom shoulder 254 of the plug
 head 220 has a plurality of detent receivers 256 that are preferably
 circumferentially spaced apart around the shoulder 254. Preferably, each
 detent receiver 256 comprises a notch, indention, or cutout in the
 shoulder 254. To prevent the plug 56 from moving away from the selected
 position, the cup 64 or 64' has a detent 258 that registers with one of
 the detent receivers 256. In a preferred detent embodiment, the detent 258
 comprises a detent assembly that includes a ball 258 biased by a spring
 260 into the cavity 232 adjacent shoulder 235 to permit rotation of the
 plug 56 in the cup 64 or 64'. Preferably, the detent assembly comprises a
 spring-plunger 262 threadably received in a threaded bore 264 that
 preferably extends axially in the cup sidewall 228 into the cavity 232.
 The assembly is shown in more detail in FIGS. 9B, 15, and 16.
 Referring to FIGS. 7, 8, 9A, and 9C, another preferred detent assembly is
 shown. The detent assembly comprises a leaf spring or beam spring 266
 received in a pocket 268 in the cup sidewall 228 that is secured by a
 screw or bolt 270 to an ejector pin 102 or the mold 40. The leaf 266 urges
 the detent ball 258 into the cavity 232 while flexing slightly to
 accommodate rotation of the plug 56 when the position of the plug 56 is
 being changed. As is shown in FIG. 9A, the detent assembly is particularly
 well suited for ejector pins 102 or 103.
 Where the cup 64' is not integral with one of the mold cavities or the
 ejector pin 102, the bottom wall 226 of the cup 64' has a bore 272 through
 which a bolt 274 extends that is threaded into a threaded bore 276 (FIG.
 15) in the body, such as ejector pin 102, to which the cup 64' is mounted.
 So that the cup 64' can be withdrawn from the pocket it is received, such
 as a pocket in the mold 40, the diameter of the bore 272 preferably is
 larger than the diameter of the mounting bolt 274 to accommodate a second
 bolt, preferably a threaded jack screw, that is threaded into bore 272.
 When threaded into bore 272, the jack screw presses against the mold
 urging it away from the mold so it can be withdrawn completely out of the
 mold. In this manner, the cup 64' can be tightly, frictionally fit into a
 pocket in the mold 40, such as is shown in FIG. 3, or tightly,
 frictionally fit into a pocket in another body.
 When mounted to an ejector pin 102, such as is shown in FIGS. 9B and 15,
 the mounting surface 278 of the pin 102 has an upstanding flange 280 about
 its periphery that is coaxially received in a complementary ridge 282 in
 the bottom of the cup 64'. The flange 280 and ridge 282 mate to locate the
 cup 64' and therefore the insert attached to the plug 56 received in the
 cup 64'.
 Plug 56 is made of a material that is durable, resilient, tough, and
 preferably wear resistant for withstanding the demanding environment of a
 mold. Cup 64 or 64' is also made of a material that is durable, resilient,
 tough, and preferably wear resistant. The plug 56 preferably is made of a
 metal, such as H13 steel, A2 steel, 420 stainless steel, 440 stainless
 steel, 450 stainless steel, or 455 stainless steel. Preferably, the plug
 56 is made of a heat treatable stainless steel such as 420, 440, or 455
 stainless steel. If desired, the plug 56 can be made of a thermoset
 material, a ceramic material, a brass material, aluminum, copper, or an
 alloy. The cup 64 or 64 preferably is made of a metal, such as H13, A2,
 420 stainless steel, 440 stainless steel, 450 stainless steel, or 455
 stainless steel. Preferably, the cup 64 or 64' and is made of 455
 stainless steel. If desired, the cup 64 or 64' can be made of a thermoset
 material, a ceramic material, brass, aluminum, copper, or a metal or
 composite alloy.
 2. Second Preferred Embodiment
 FIGS. 2, 7, 9A-9C, 11, 13, and 14A-14B illustrate a second preferred
 rotating mechanism 66 that preferably carries an insert, such as, for
 example, insert 50 or 52. The insert 50 or 52 is attached to or integral
 with an axially extending plug 68 that receives a flexible and resilient
 biasing element 70 that helps capture locator 72 in a hollow (FIG. 7)
 within the plug 68.
 The plug 68 is of hollow or tubular construction and can be a tube or
 sleeve that preferably is generally cylindrical. The plug 68 is
 telescopically received in a cup 76. The cup 76 can be integral with the
 mold 40 or an ejector pin 102 or 103 or is a separable component that is
 mounted to one end of the pin 102 or 103 or received in a pocket in the
 mold 40.
 The biasing element 70 preferably comprises a wad of non-metallic material
 that preferably is flexible and resilient. The wad 70 preferably is
 comprised of rubber, a rubber-like material, an elastomer, a polymer, a
 plastic, a nylon, a thermoplastic material, a thermoset material, or
 another material suitable for use in biasing locator 72 outwardly from a
 bore 294 in a sidewall 296 of the plug 68.
 The locator 72 preferably has a rounded surface that extends generally
 radially outwardly from the bore 294 (FIG. 13) and that is received in a
 groove 74 in the interior surface of the cup 76 when the plug 68 is
 inserted into the cup 76. While the locator 72 can comprise a pin or the
 like, the locator 72 preferably comprises a ball, such as a ball bearing
 or similar.
 As is shown more clearly in FIG. 13, the biasing element 70 is retained in
 the plug 68 by a retainer 298 that preferably is a screw, preferably a set
 screw, or a bolt that is threaded into a threaded portion of the hollow
 302 (FIGS. 14A and 14B) in the plug 68. In its preferred embodiment, the
 retainer 298 is a spring plunger that has a tip 300 that bears against the
 biasing element 70. The retainer 298 is also constructed and arranged to
 capture both the biasing element 70 and locator 72 in the hollow 302
 within the plug 68. Together, the retainer 298 and biasing element 70 urge
 the locator 72 outwardly from port 294 but permit the locator 72 to be
 retracted, at least slightly, into the port 294 to permit the plug 68 to
 be quickly and easily to be inserted into and removed from the cup 76.
 To remove the locator 72, biasing element 70 from the plug 68, the sidewall
 296 of the plug 68 has an access port 304 (FIG. 11) to permit a tool, such
 as a screw driver 290, to be inserted into the port 304. With the retainer
 298 removed, the tool 290 is inserted through the port 304 to pry free the
 biasing element 70 such that the biasing element 70 and locator 72 are
 urged out the hollow 302.
 The cup 76 has a cavity 306 into which the plug 68 is telescopically
 inserted. Referring to FIG. 11, the axial end 118 of the cup 76 preferably
 has a recess 308 that is complementary to the head 310, or insert 50 or
 52, carried by the plug 68 so that when the plug 68 is inserted into the
 cup 76, the outer axial surface of the head 310 or insert 50 or 52 carried
 by the is flush or substantially flush with the outer axial surface of the
 cup 76. To retain the plug 68 in the cup 76, the cavity 306 has a
 generally radially outwardly extending internal groove 74 that receives
 the locator 72.
 As is shown more clearly in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the inner axial end 312 of
 the plug 68 has a plurality of spaced apart detent receivers 314, each of
 which preferably is a notch or the like, that receives a detent 316 that
 preferably is a pin 316 that is received in a bore 318 that extends
 radially inwardly through cup sidewall 320 into the cup cavity 306. As
 seen in FIG. 13, the detent notches 314 cooperate with the detent pin 316
 (FIG. 7) to permit the plug 68, and thereby the insert 50 or 52 carried by
 the plug 68, to be selectively indexed relative to the cup 76. Preferably,
 a tool, such as screwdriver 290, is used to index the plug 68 into slot
 201. So that the plug 68 can be quickly and easily removed from the cup
 76, the cup sidewall 320 has an access port 322 through which a tool, such
 as screwdriver 290, can be inserted to pry the plug 68 upwardly until it
 is freed. Thereafter, the plug 68 can be manually removed and another plug
 68 with a different insert or the like inserted into the cup 76.
 Plug 69 is made of a material that is durable, resilient, tough, and
 preferably wear resistant for withstanding the demanding environment of a
 mold. Cup 76 is also made of a material that is durable, resilient, tough,
 and preferably wear resistant. The plug 68 preferably is made of a metal,
 such as 455 stainless steel, 440 stainless steel, 420 stainless steel,
 H13, A2, or another alloy. Preferably, the plug 68 is made of 455
 stainless steel. If desired, the plug 68 can be made of a thermoset
 material, a ceramic material, brass, aluminum, copper, or a composite or
 synthetic material. The cup 76 preferably is made of a metal, such as H13,
 A2, 420 stainless steel, 440 stainless steel, 455 stainless steel, or
 another alloy. Preferably, the cup 68 and is made of a material that can
 be heat treated, nitrided, or surface hardened. If desired, the cup 76 can
 be made of a thermoset material, a ceramic material, brass, aluminum,
 copper, or a composite or synthetic material.
 Use and Operation
 In use, the inserts of the invention, preferably inserts 50 and 52, are
 used for imprinting an indicia in material 53 in a cavity that is
 hardenable, or for diverting or controlling the flow of the hardenable
 material 53 upstream of a mold cavity. The inserts of the invention are
 well suited for use in molding applications, such as where plastic, metal,
 a polymer, or another material is the hardenable material 53 being molded.
 The inserts of the invention are also well suited for use in other molding
 applications, including applications where a metal such as steel,
 aluminum, titanium, copper, iron, or another metal is the hardenable
 material 53 being molded.
 In use, the rotating mechanisms 54 and 66 of the invention are used for
 enabling the inserts, such as insert 50 or 52, to be quickly and easily
 rotated such that mold down time is reduced as compared to other such
 mechanisms and preferably minimized. Additionally, the rotating mechanisms
 54 and 66 is well suited for use with inserts of a type other than indicia
 imprinting inserts 50 and flow-controlling or flow diverting inserts 52.
 In use, the ejector pin embodiments 102, 102a, 102b and 102c of the
 invention are advantageously versatile in that they enable ejector pins
 pre-equipped with inserts, such as insert 50, to be shipped and cut to
 size at another site, such as the site of the mold. By their advantageous
 construction, manufacturing time is reduced thereby increasing production.
 Moreover, by their construction, ejector pins can be cut accurately to
 size for the mold into which they will be used thereby taking into account
 any deviations in tolerance or the like that may be present in the mold
 thereby preventing excessive wear and minimizing or preventing clashing
 that might occur.
 In operation, the indicia imprinting insert 50 is used to imprint an
 impression of two-dimensional or three-dimensional contour into the
 hardenable material 53 so the impression remains in the hardenable
 material 53 even after it has completely hardened. When mounted to an
 ejector pin 102 or 103, the pin is extended outwardly from the mold 40
 such that the insert 50 makes contact with the hardenable material 53 and
 leaves an impression in it such that the impression remains when the
 material 53 is hardened. As the pin 102 or 103 is further extended, it
 urges the material 53, now in molded form, away from the mold cavity so it
 can be removed completely from the mold 40.
 To rotate or index the insert 50, the mold 40 is opened exposing the insert
 50. A tool, preferably a screwdriver 290, is used to engage the insert 50
 and turn the insert 50 or one or more the rings of the insert 50 to the
 desired position. Once the desired position has been set, the mold 40 is
 closed and molding can begin. As a result of the detent construction
 previously described, the position of the insert 50 or any ring of the
 insert 50 will not wander during repeated cycling of the mold 40.
 The flow controlling or diverting insert 52 is used to divert or control
 flow of the hardenable material 53 and is typically disposed in a channel,
 such as runner or channel 86 and 88, between the source of the hardenable
 material 90 and one or more mold cavities 42, 44, 46, 48. To change the
 position of the insert 52, the mold 40 is opened and a tool 290 is used to
 engage and rotate the insert 52. When the insert 52 has been rotated to
 the desired position, the mold 40 is closed and the mold 40 can be
 operated. By its advantageous construction, each insert, such as 52a, 52b,
 and 52c, is used to provide flow of hardenable material 53 only to the
 mold cavity where flow of hardenable material 53 is needed. Thus, for
 production runs where only some cavities are to be used to mold components
 and others are not to be used, one or more the inserts 52 are used to
 control flow.
 In use, the first preferred rotating mechanism 54 is used to facilitate
 rotation of an insert, such as insert 50 or 52. The rotating mechanism 54
 preferably enables the insert to be selectively indexed to preset or
 predetermined positions. When rotated in one direction, the insert can be
 rotated until the guide 240 reaches an end, preferably an endwall, of the
 axial portion of the groove 58 in its outer sidewall. This end of the
 groove functions as a limit on the range of rotational adjustment of the
 rotating mechanism 54.
 When rotated in an opposite direction, the guide 240 rides in the axial
 portion 62 of the groove 58 until it reaches the other end of the axial
 portion 62. The other end of the axial portion 62 of the groove 58
 communicates with a helical or spiral portion 60 such that the guide 240
 rides in the axial groove portion 62 until it reaches the helical groove
 portion 60. Further rotation causes the guide 240 to ride in the helical
 portion 60 causing the plug 56 of the rotating mechanism 54 and insert to
 displace axially upwardly relative to the cup 64 in which it is received.
 Further rotation causes the guide 240 to ride further along the helical
 portion 60 until it reaches the end of the helical portion 60 and the
 guide 240 passes beyond the end of the helical 60 thereby completely
 disengaging the plug 56 from the cup 64 so it can be lifted free of the
 cup 64 and removed.
 Thereafter, if desired, another insert carried by another rotating
 mechanism 54 can be inserted into the cup 64. If desired, the insert can
 simply be changed and the same rotating mechanism 54 inserted into the cup
 64.
 To insert the rotating mechanism 54 into the cup 64, the plug 56 is placed
 in the cup cavity 232 until its axial end rests on guide 240. The plug 56
 is rotated until the guide 240 is received in the open end or entryway of
 the helical portion 60 of groove 62. Further rotation causes the plug 56
 to be drawn downwardly into the cup 64 by cooperation between the guide
 240 and groove 58 as it rides in the helical portion 60. Preferably, the
 plug 56 is rotated until the guide 240 is received in the axial groove
 portion 62.
 In the preferred embodiment shown, the plug 56 is rotated in a
 counterclockwise direction to remove the plug 56 from the cup 64 and the
 plug 56 is rotated in a clockwise direction to assemble the plug 56 into
 the cup 64.
 The second rotating mechanism 66 is rotated such that its guide, locator
 72, rides in groove 74 until the insert is located in the desired
 position. Detent 316 and detent notches 314 cooperate to permit the plug
 68 of the mechanism 66 to be selectively indexed.
 To remove the rotating mechanism 66 and insert, a tool 290 is inserted
 through port 322 and engages the axial end of the plug 68. Pressure is
 applied using the tool 290 against the axial end of the plug 68 to urge
 the plug 68 and insert upwardly relative to the cup 76. As the plug 68 is
 urged upwardly, the locator 72 is urged generally radially inwardly into
 the plug 68 against biasing element 70 such that the locator 72 clears
 groove 74 thereby disengaging it from the cup 76. After the biasing
 element 70 has disengaged from the cup 76, additional pressure causes the
 plug 68 to move farther axially upwardly relative to the cup 76 until the
 plug 68 can be manually lifted free of the cup 76.
 To insert the rotating mechanism 66 into the cup 76, the plug 68 is placed
 into the cup cavity 306 such that its sidewall 296 is slidably,
 telescopically received in the cup 76. Pressure is applied to the outer
 surface 198 of the insert to urge the plug 68 farther into the cavity 306.
 By applying pressure, the locator 72 is urged inwardly against biasing
 element 70 into the plug 68 by the interior sidewall of the cup 76. When
 received in the groove 74 in the interior sidewall of the cup 76, the
 locator 72 is urged outwardly by the biasing element 70 thereby engaging
 the locator 72 with the cup 76. When the locator 72 is engaged with the
 cup 76 by being received in its groove 74, the plug 68 can be rotated but
 cannot be axially displaced.
 It is also to be understood that, although the foregoing description and
 drawings describe and illustrate in detail preferred embodiments of the
 present invention, to those skilled in the art to which the present
 invention relates, the present disclosure will suggest many modifications
 and constructions as well as widely differing embodiments and applications
 without thereby departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The
 present invention, therefore, is intended to be limited only by the scope
 of the appended claims.