A molding-system clamp assembly of a molding system is disclosed, and includes a clamp piston, and a clamp ram, the clamp ram and the clamp piston each including inter-meshable structures to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston to the clamp ram, in the unmeshed position the clamp piston and the clamp ram do not inter-mesh relative to each other, and inter-abuttable structures to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clams ram, the inter-abuttable structures having an interposing body abuttable against the clamp ram and the clamp piston, the inter-abuttable structures to abut with each other so that the clams piston makes contact with the interposing body, and the inter-abuttable structures to transfer a mold-break force so that the mold-break force is applied from the clamp piston against the interposing body, and in response the mold-break force is transferred from the clamp piston through the interposing body and to the clamp ram, and once mold break has occurred, the clamp piston is deactivated so that the mold may be opened.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to molding systems, and more specifically the present invention relates to, but is not limited to, a molding-system clamp assembly (amongst other things).

BACKGROUND

U.S. Pat. No. 3,587,138 (Inventor: Bammert et al; Assignee: Schloemann, Germany) discloses a mold-closing device that includes a four-column hydraulic press usable in an injection-molding machine, in which a movable mold-carrying plate is slidable along a column of the press and is also releasably lockable on the column.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,853,773 (Inventor: Choi; Assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems Limited, Canada) discloses a system and a process for controlling mold activity of a molding machine by using a clamping device for positioning a movable-mold platen on a carrier device for engaging the movable-mold platen with another platen, and for sustaining forceful engagement of the movable-mold platen with the another platen and the carrier device, and for breaking the movable-platen from the another platen and the carrying device. The movable-mold platen includes a movable-mold half and the another platen includes another mold half. Also disclosed is a way for determining an adjustable starting position of the clamping device and the movable-mold platen. Also disclosed is a way for achieving greater accuracy of an adjustable starting position for the clamping device and the movable platen. The way for adjusting the starting position includes a mechanism for actuating the clamping device. Also disclosed is a device for monitoring and controlling the position of the clamping device and the movable platen. Also disclosed is a mechanism for sustaining the clamp-up force at a prescribed level.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,372 (Reissued as U.S. Pat. No. RE. 37,827; Inventor: Schad; Assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems Limited, Canada) discloses a clamping system for use with platens of a molding machine. The molding machine includes a stationary platen having a first mold half affixed thereto and also includes a movable platen having a second mold half affixed thereto. The movable platen travels along a plurality of tie bars and reciprocatively moves between a mold-open position and mold-closed position. The clamping system is used for applying a clamping force to the movable platen.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,468,449 (Inventor: Fujikawa; Assignee: Sodick Company Limited, Japan) discloses an injection molding machine that includes a mold-clamping device. The mold-clamping device includes an electromechanical mold opening and closing mechanism, a hydraulic mold clamping mechanism, and a mold thickness adjustment device. The mold thickness adjustment device includes a first-detection device for detecting the position of a mold-clamping ram, a second-detection device for optically detecting the position of a half nut device, and a mold clamping ram position control device for hydraulically holding and controlling the position of the mold-clamping ram. The position of the half nut device is held by hydraulic control at the mold thickness adjustment position during mold opening and closing. In a mold opening and closing operation, the mold-clamping ram exerts a large mold opening force that is used to open the mold.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,753,153 (Inventor: Choi; Assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems Limited, Canada) discloses a control system for clamp-up and mold break operations of tie bar clamping mechanisms, the control system determines and adjusts starting position of securing/clamping mechanism and movable mold after each molding operation to achieve greater accuracy. In a particular embodiment of the securing/clamping assemblies, the securing/clamping assembly is mounted on the outwardly facing side of movable end platen and within a bore. In order for the securing/clamping assembly of the platen to function with the tie bar, the tie bar includes an elongated end section having a plurality of spaced protrusions in the form of teeth separated by longitudinally extending inner slots. Accordingly, at the end of tie bar is a toothed outer surface. The toothed outer surface of tie bar is in the form of longitudinal outer strips of teeth extending in the axial direction of the tie bar, wherein the teeth are preferably aligned in a radial direction on the tie bar and separated by a space in the axial direction. Each of the strips of teeth such as strips of teeth is radially separated from another strip of teeth via an outer axially extending slot, such as slots. Outer strips of teeth and slots of tie bar are adapted to engage and align, respectively, with inner teeth and grooves of securing/clamping assembly in order to cause a locking engagement with the bar.

FIG. 1Ais a perspective view of a known clamp assembly100(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly100”) as depicted in FIG. 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,372. The clamp assembly is sometimes referred to as a pineapple-type clamp because of its teeth arrangement.

FIG. 1Bis a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal axis of the clamp assembly ofFIG. 1A. The clamp assembly is used in a molding system102. The clamp assembly is depicted in a mold-opened position. The molding system102includes a base104. A stationary platen106is fixedly attached to the base104. A movable platen108is transversally slidabe along the base104. A stationary mold half110is fixedly attached to the stationary platen106. A movable mold half112is fixedly attached to the movable platen108. The mold halves110,112cooperatively define a mold cavity therebetween for molding an article therein. An actuator130is activated to translate or stroke the movable platen108toward and away from the stationary platen106(so as to open and close the mold halves110,112relative to each other). The actuator130includes a column141which is attached to the movable platen108. Once the mold halves110,112are closed against each other, the clamp assembly is actuated to apply a clamping force to the mold halves110,112while the injection unit114injects a molding material into the mold cavity. The clamping force keeps the mold halves110,112together while the molding material enters the mold cavity under pressure. Once the molding material has solidified in the mold cavity, the clamp assembly removes the clamping force and then it actuates to apply a mold-break force that is used to separate the mold halves110,112apart from each other so that the molded article may then be removed from the mold halves110,112. Then once the mold halves110,112are broken apart, the actuator130actuates to move (or stroke) the platens106,108apart from each other.

The clamp assembly includes a clamp ram116and a clamp piston118. The clamp ram116is attached to the column141. The clamp ram116includes an inter-meshable structure120. The clamp piston118includes an inter-meshable structure142(structure142is not depicted inFIG. 1Bbut it is depicted inFIG. 1D). The inter-meshable structures120,142intermesh relative to each other between an unmeshed position and an inter-meshed position.FIG. 1Bdepicts the clamp ram116and the clamp piston118in the unmeshed position. Sometimes the inter-meshable structures120,142are referred to as “pineapple” structures.

The actuator130(which is sometimes referred to as a “stroke cylinder”) is used to actuatably move the column141which then, in turn, moves the movable platen108to open (or separate) the mold halves110,112or to close the mold halves110,112relative to each other. The actuator130includes a rod132and a cylinder head134disposed within a chamber136defined by the column141. Defined by the chamber136and the cylinder head134are a mold-opened hydraulic column138and a mold-closed hydraulic column140. The actuator130is actuated to close the mold halves110,112. Preferably, the actuator130is slowed down just before the mold halves110,112make contact with each other to ensure that the mold halves110,112do not inter-collide (this is sometimes referred to as a mold-protect phase).

A housing122houses the clamp piston118, and the clamp piston118moves relative to the housing122. Sometimes the housing122is referred to as a clamp block. One way to accommodate molds of varying sizes and/or shapes is to have the housing122translate along the base104and then locking the housing122into a fixed position to the base104. A clamping-hydraulic column124and a mold-break hydraulic column126are defined between the clamp piston118and the housing122. An actuator128is attached to the housing122and to the clamp piston118. The actuator128is used to rotate the clamp piston118so that the inter-meshable structure (structure142) associated with the clamp piston118may inter-mesh or unmesh relative to the inter-meshable structure120of the clamp piston116. It is understood thatFIG. 1Bshows the clamp assembly in an un-actuated condition (that is, the assembly is not yet actuated to apply a force (either clamping force or mold-break force) that is transferred over to the mold halves110,112).

FIG. 1Cis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly ofFIG. 1Bin which the mold halves110,112are positioned in the mold-closed position. The mold-closed hydraulic column140of the actuator130is energized to push the column141against the movable platen108and in response the movable platen108moves toward the stationary platen106and thus the mold halves110,112are closed against each other. It is understood thatFIG. 1Cshows the clamp assembly in an un-actuated condition (that is, the assembly is not yet actuated to apply a force that is transferred over to the mold halves110,112).

FIG. 1Dis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly ofFIG. 1Bin which the clamp assembly is placed in a clamp-intermeshed position. The clamp piston118includes an inter-meshable structure142that is rotated into the intermeshed position relative to the inter-meshable structure120of the clamp ram116. The actuator128was actuated to rotate the inter-meshable structure142into this position. This phase of operation is called a clamp lock-up phase. It is understood thatFIG. 1Dshows the clamp assembly in an un-actuated condition (that is, the assembly is not yet actuated to apply a force that is transferred over to the mold halves110,112).

FIG. 1Eis cross-sectional views of the clamp assembly100ofFIG. 1Bat subsequent phases of the clamping cycle. It is understood thatFIG. 1Dshows the clamp assembly in an actuated condition (that is, the assembly is actuated to apply a force that is transferred over to the mold halves110,112).

The upper-left corner ofFIG. 1Eshows the clamp assembly in a clamp-up phase (that is, the clamp assembly is actuated to apply a clamping force to the mold halves110,112). The clamping-hydraulic column124includes hydraulic oil. The clamping-hydraulic column124is actuated to push the piston118toward the mold halves110,112(by having a pump device pump the hydraulic oil into the column124). In turn, teeth of the inter-meshable structure142are urged to contact and then to push against the teeth of the inter-meshable structure120. The inter-meshable142includes a rear-tooth portion144and a flank-tooth portion146. The inter-meshable120includes a rear-tooth portion148and a flank-tooth portion150. The clamp piston118pushes the flank-tooth portion146against the flank-tooth portion150and in this manner a clamping force is transferred from the clamp piston118over to the clamp ram116. In turn, the clamp ram116transfers the clamping force over to the column141and then onto the mold halves110,112.

The upper-right corner ofFIG. 1Eshows the clamp assembly in a mold-break phase (that is, the clamp assembly is actuated to apply a mold break force to the mold halves110,112). The clamping-hydraulic column124is de-actuated so that the clamp piston118no longer applies the clamping force over to the clamp ram116. The mold-break hydraulic column126is actuated so that the clamp piston118and the inter-meshable structure142are moved so that the rear-tooth portions148,144of the inter-meshable structures120,142contact one another. The mold-break hydraulic column126is further actuated to push the clamp piston118against the clamp ram116so that the mold halves110,112are urged to break open (that is, the clamp piston118has applied the mold break force to the mold halves110,112). Once broken open, the actuator130cannot yet be actuated to move the movable mold half112away from the mold half110because the teeth of the inter-meshable structures120,142are intermeshed with each other.

The lower-left corner ofFIG. 1Eshows the clamp assembly in a clamp un-mesh phase (or clamp-unlock phase). The clamping-hydraulic column124is actuated to translate the teeth structures away from each other (this is a teeth clearance phase). Once the teeth are clear from each other (that is, the teeth are offset from each other), the actuator128may then be actuated to rotate the clamp piston118so that the inter-meshable structures120,142no longer inter-mesh with each other.

The lower-right corner ofFIG. 1Eshows the clamp assembly (in an un-meshed condition) in a mold-open phase (that is the clamp assembly is de-actuated to apply no forces to the mold halves110,112). The actuator128was actuated to rotate the clamp piston118so that the inter-meshable structures120,142no longer inter-mesh with each other. The actuator130is then actuated to translate the column141and thus move (stroke) the movable platen108so as the mold half112becomes separated from the mold half110.

SUMMARY

By reducing the clamping cycle time of the clamp assembly100, a reduction in the cycle time of molding systems may be achieved. By reducing the cycle time, capital cost of molding systems may be amortized over a larger quantity of molded articles, which may increase manufacturing profitability. The present invention mitigates the problems associated with known clamp assemblies at least in part.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a molding-system clamp assembly of a molding system, the molding system being configured to handle a mold, the molding-system clamp assembly including: (i) a clamp piston being configured to apply a mold-clamping force to the mold that is being held shut by the molding system, and the clamp piston being configured to remove the mold-clamping force from the mold after the mold becomes filled with a molding material and the molding material has cooled down and become solidified, and (ii) a clamp ram being movable relative to the clamp piston, the clamp ram and the clamp piston each including: (a) inter-meshable structures being configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, the inter-meshable structures being intermeshing with each other so that the clamp piston and the clamp ram intermesh relative to each other, once the inter-meshable structures do not interfere with each other while the mold remains not yet been broken apart, the clamp piston is movable, the inter-meshable structures being configured to be movable to an unmeshed position, in the unmeshed position the clamp piston and the clamp ram do not inter-mesh relative to each other, and (b) inter-abuttable structures being configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, at least one of the inter-abuttable structures having an interposing body, the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp ram, and the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp piston, the inter-abuttable structures being configured to abut with each other so that the clamp piston makes contact with the interposing body, and the inter-abuttable structures being configured to transfer a mold-break force so that the mold-break force is applied from the clamp piston against the interposing body, and in response the mold-break force is transferred from the clamp piston through the interposing body and to the clamp ram, and once mold break has occurred, the clamp piston is deactivated so that the mold may be opened.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a molding system being configured to handle a mold, the molding system having a molding-system clamp assembly, including: (i) a clamp piston being configured to apply a mold-clamping force to the mold that is being held shut by the molding system, and the clamp piston being configured to remove the mold-clamping force from the mold after the mold becomes filled with a molding material and the molding material has cooled down and become solidified, and (ii) a clamp ram being movable relative to the clamp piston, the clamp ram and the clamp piston each including: (a) inter-meshable structures being configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, the inter-meshable structures being intermeshing with each other so that the clamp piston and the clamp ram intermesh relative to each other, once the inter-meshable structures do not interfere with each other while the mold remains not yet been broken apart, the clamp piston is movable, the inter-meshable structures being configured to be movable to an unmeshed position, in the unmeshed position the clamp piston and the clamp ram do not inter-mesh relative to each other, and (b) inter-abuttable structures being configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, at least one of the inter-abuttable structures having an interposing body, the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp ram, and the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp piston, the inter-abuttable structures being configured to abut with each other so that the clamp piston makes contact with the interposing body, and the inter-abuttable structures being configured to transfer a mold-break force so that the mold-break force is applied from the clamp piston against the interposing body, and in response the mold-break force is transferred from the clamp piston through the interposing body and to the clamp ram, and once mold break has occurred, the clamp piston is deactivated so that the mold may be opened.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mold a method of a molding-system clamp assembly of a molding system, the molding system having a mold, the molding-system clamp assembly having a clamp ram and a clamp piston each including inter-abuttable structures and inter-meshable structures, the clamp ram being movable relative to the clamp piston, the inter-meshable structures being configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, the inter-abuttable structures being configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, at least one of the inter-abuttable structures having an interposing body, the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp ram, and the interposing body being abuttable against the clamp piston, the method including: (i) intermeshing the inter-meshable structures with each other so that the clamp piston and the clamp ram intermesh relative to each other, (ii) actuating the clamp piston to apply a mold-clamping force to the mold that is being held shut by the molding system, (iii) deactivating the clams piston so as to remove the mold-clamping force from the mold after the mold is filled with a molding material and the molding material has cooled down and become solidified, (iv) moving the clamp piston so that the inter-meshable structures do not interfere with each other and the mold remains not yet been broken apart, (vl moving the inter-meshable structures to an unmeshed position, in the unmeshed position the clamp piston and the clamp ram do not inter-mesh relative to each other, (vi) abutting the inter-abuttable structures with each other so that the clamp piston makes contact with the interposing body, and (vii) transferring, via the inter-abuttable structures, a mold-break force so that the mold-break force is applied from the clamp piston against the interposing body, and in response the mold-break force is transferred from the clamp piston through the interposing body and to the clamp ram, and once mold break has occurred, the clamp piston is deactivated so that the mold may be opened.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mold of a molding system, the mold, including mold halves configured to cooperate with a molding-system clamp assembly, the molding-system clamp assembly including inter-abuttable structures, and inter-meshable structures, the inter-abuttable structures configured to, in cooperation with the inter-meshable structures, transfer a force to the mold halves.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for arranging a molding-system clamp assembly, the method including configuring inter-abuttable structures, and configuring inter-meshable structures, the inter-abuttable structures configured to, in cooperation with the inter-meshable structures, transfer a force to a mold.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article of manufacture for directing a data processing system to control a molding-system clamp assembly operatively connectable to the data processing system, the article of manufacture including a data processing system usable medium embodying one or more instructions executable by the data processing system, the one or more instructions including instructions for directing the data processing system to actuate inter-abuttable structures, and instructions for directing the data processing system to actuate inter-meshable structures, the inter-abuttable structures configured to, in cooperation with the inter-meshable structures, transfer a force to a mold.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing system for controlling a molding-system clamp assembly operatively connectable to the data processing system, the data processing system including a data processing system usable medium embodying one or more instructions executable by the data processing system, the one or more instructions including instructions for directing the data processing system to actuate inter-abuttable structures, and instructions for directing the data processing system to actuate inter-meshable structures, the inter-abuttable structures configured to, in cooperation with the inter-meshable structures, transfer a force to a mold.

A technical effect of the aspects of the present invention is a reduction in clamping cycle time relative to the known clamp assembly ofFIGS. 1A to 1E. Hence, overall cycle time of molding systems using the aspects may be reduced, and the cost of the molding systems may be amortized over a larger number of molded articles manufactured, which may increase profitability for users of the molding systems.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and are sometimes illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the embodiments or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted.

REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

The following is a listing of the elements designated to each reference numerals used in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The exemplary embodiments are described below along with a description of the reduction in cycle time associated with using some of the exemplary embodiments (in view of the known clamp assembly100ofFIGS. 1A to 1E).

FIG. 2Ais a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly200(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly200” or the “assembly200”) according to the first exemplary embodiment (which is the preferred embodiment). The assembly200is used in a molding system202of which a limited depiction thereof is provided. Apart from the assembly200, the molding system202is similar to that of the molding system102ofFIGS. 1A to 1E. Preferably, the clamp assembly200includes a clamp piston204and a clamp ram206. The clamp ram206and the clamp piston204have inter-meshable structures208,210(respectively) that are configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston204relative to (or relative with) the clamp ram206. In addition, the clamp ram206and the clamp piston204also have inter-abuttable structures212,214(respectively) that are configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston204relative to (or relative with) the clamp ram206. The inter-meshable structures208,210, in cooperation with the inter-abuttable structures212,214, transfer a force to a mold275. The inter-meshable structures205,210are used to transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold275. The inter-abuttable structures212,214are used to transfer a mold-break force over to the mold275.

The inter-meshable structures208,210are actuatable to mesh and unmesh relative to each other between a meshed-engagement position (which is depicted inFIG. 2A) and an unmeshed position. The unmeshed position is not depicted inFIG. 2Abut is depicted inFIGS. 2D and 2E. The inter-abuttable structures212,214permit the clamp ram206and the clamp piston204to selectively inter-abut relative to (or relative with) each other once the inter-meshable structures208,210that are intermeshing no longer intermesh each other and the clamp piston204is actuated to move relative to the clamp ram206. At least one of the inter-abuttable structures212and/or214) is offset from any one of the inter-meshable structures (208and/or210). Preferably, the inter-meshable structures208,210and the inter-abuttable structures212,214do not share common structures.

According to the first exemplary embodiment, each of the inter-meshable structures208,210include a plurality of inter-meshable teeth in which at least one axially-aligned groove (not depicted) is interposed between rows of teeth. The (at least one axially-aligned) groove permits the clamp piston204and the clamp ram206to be intermeshed or not intermeshed (that is, to be selectively inter-meshable relative to each other). The groove permits the set of teeth (of the clamp piston204and the clamp ram206) to disengage from each other so that the clamp column220may be actuated to move a platen connected to the clamp column220. The clamp-piston teeth extend from the clamp piston204, the clamp-ram teeth extend from the clamp ram206, and the clamp-ram teeth inter-mesh with the clamp-piston teeth (between an un-meshed position and a meshed position).

According to an alternative, the inter-meshable structures208,210are similar to the pineapple structure of the known clamp assembly100. According to another alternative (not depicted), other geometric forms implement the inter-meshable structures208,210. The shape of the inter-meshable structures208,210is not important provided that the inter-meshable structures208,210can be inter-mesh and unmeshed relative to each other. According to yet another alternative, the inter-meshable structures208,210each include one tooth that inter-mesh relative to each other.

According to the first embodiment, the inter-abuttable structure212is (preferably) a surface of an interposing body216and that the interposing body216is fixedly attached to the clamp ram206, and the inter-abutable structure214is (preferably) a surface of the clamp piston204that is abuttable against the surface of interposing body216. The interposing body216fits in a groove218defined by the clamp ram206. The shape of the inter-abuttable structures212,214is not important, but what is important is that the inter-abuttable structures212,214permit the clamp piston204and the clamp ram206to inter-abut relative to each other. In an alternative, the interposing body216is integral with the clamp ram206.

In operation, the inter-meshable structures208,210are actuated to move to the unmeshed position, in which the clamp piston204and the clamp ram206do not inter-mesh relative to each other (that is, the teeth of the inter-meshing structures are do not touch each other and the teeth no longer face each other). By actuating the mold-break hydraulic column226(by pumping hydraulic fluid into the mold-break hydraulic column226), the clamp piston204is actuated to contact the interposing body216and then to apply a mold break force against the interposing body216. In response the interposing body216transfers the mold break force from the clamp piston204over to the clamp ram206. Once mold break has occurred (that is, mold halves276,278have been broken open or apart from one another), the mold-break hydraulic column226is relieved (that is, the mold-break hydraulic column226does not apply any pressure the clamp piston204), and the clamp column220is then actuated (by an actuator229) to move a movable platen272(hereafter referred to as the “movable platen272”) which then in turn moves a movable mold half276away from a stationary mold half278. The mold halves276,278are included in the mold275.

Note that according to the first exemplary embodiment, the teeth of the inter-meshable structure208,210that are intermeshing are unmeshed form each other, then the mold break force may be applied to the mold275and then stroking of the platen272may be performed. In sharp contrast, according to the known clamp assembly100ofFIG. 1Acycle time is lost because the mold break force is applied to the mold110,112and then extra time is taken (that is, time is lost) to place the teeth of the inter-meshable structures120,142that are intermeshing with each other in clearance position then unmesh from each other, and then the movable platen108may be stroked.

Generally, the inter-meshable structures208,210, in cooperation with inter-abuttable structures212,214, transfer a force to the mold275. Preferably, the inter-meshable structures208,210transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold275, and the inter-abuttable structures212,214transfer a mold-break force over to the mold275.

According to the first exemplary embodiment, the clamp piston204is housed in a housing222(which is sometimes referred to as a clamp block). The clamp piston204moves relative to the housing222. Defined between the housing222and the clamp piston204is a clamp-hydraulic column224and a mold-break hydraulic column226. When actuated, the clamp-hydraulic column224fills with hydraulic fluid so as to pushes the clamp piston204which in turn pushes the clamp column220toward the platen272that is attached to the movable mold half276(that is, the clamp piston204moves to apply a clamp force toward the mold275. The stationary mold half278is attached to the stationary platen274. After the clamping-hydraulic column224is relieved, the mold-break hydraulic column226is actuated to push the clamp piston204away form the mold275(that is, the clamp piston204applies a mold break force which breaks open the movable mold half276relative to, or away from, the stationary mold half278). By selecting specific teeth of the clamp piston204to engage with specific teeth of the clamp ram206, mold-height adjustment may be performed to accommodate molds of different heights or sizes.

An actuator228is mounted to the housing222. The actuator228actuatably rotates the clamp piston204so that the inter-meshable structures208,210become movable between the meshed-engagement position and the unmeshed position. An actuator229actuatably translates a clamp column220(and the clamp ram206) toward and away from the mold (to open and to close the mold). In operation, the actuator228is actuated to rotate the inter-meshable structures208,210into the meshed-engagement position as depicted inFIG. 2A. The teeth of the clamp piston204and the teeth of the clamp ram206do not touch or interfere with each other during this phase of the clamping cycle of the clamp assembly200(but they may touch if so desired).

FIG. 2Bis a cross section view of the clamp assembly200ofFIG. 2Ain which the clamp piston204is actuated to apply the clamping force to the mold halves276,278. The clamp piston204and the clamp ram206are shown intermeshed relative to each other. The inter-meshable structure210includes a rear-tooth portion230and a flank-tooth portion232that are, preferably, surfaces of teeth. In effect, piston teeth extend from the clamp piston204, and ram teeth extend from the clamp ram206. The inter-meshable structure208includes a rear-tooth portion234and a flank-tooth portion236that are each tooth surfaces (that is, surfaces of teeth). The clamping-hydraulic column224is actuated to move the clamp piston204toward the mold halves276,278, which causes the flank-tooth portion232to abut the flank-tooth portion236. In turn, this action transfers the clamping force to the clamp ram206, which in turn transfers the clamp force to the mold halves276,278to (in effect) clamp the mold275shut.

FIG. 2Cis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly200ofFIG. 2Ain which the clamp piston204is actuated to remove (or de-actuate) the clamp force from the mold halves276,278. The clamping-hydraulic column224is de-pressurized, the mold-break hydraulic column226is energized (or pressurized), and then the clamp piston204moves away from the mold halves276,275. Movement of the clamp piston204(hereafter referred to as the “piston204”) causes the flank-tooth portion232to translate away from the flank-tooth portion236. The inter-meshable structure208does not interfere or touch the inter-meshable structure210. The mold halves276,278have not yet been broken apart from each other at this point the clamp cycle.

FIG. 2Dis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly200ofFIG. 2Ain which the inter-meshable structures208,210become unmeshed from each other so that in effect the clamp piston204becomes un-meshed from the clamp ram206. The actuator228is actuated to rotate the clamp piston204, which in turn rotates the inter-meshable structure210away from the inter-meshable structure208from the meshed-engagement position to the unmeshed position. The mold halves276,278have not yet been broken open (that is, pulled apart from one another).

FIG. 2Eis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly200ofFIG. 2Ain which the mold-break hydraulic column226is actuated to push and abut the clamp piston204against the interposing body218with sufficient force (that is, the mold break force) to push the clamp ram206away from the mold275so that the platen272is forced to move and then break open the mold halves278,278(in this sense, the mold break force is applied to the mold275). Once the mold halves276,278have been broken open, an actuator229is actuated to push the clamp column220away to open the mold halves276,278so that a molded article may be retrieved from a mold cavity defined by the mold halves276,278. In effect, the clamp ram206breaks the movable mold half276away from the stationary mold half278responsive to the clamp piston204unmeshing from the clamp ram206, the piston204abutting against the interposing body216, and then the piston204pushing the interposing body216(which is attached to the clamp ram206) and thereby the clamp ram206receives the mold-break force from the clamp piston204(according to the depicted embodiment) and then the mold break force is transferred over to the mold275.

FIG. 2Fis a side view and a frontal view of the interposing body216ofFIG. 2A. On the left side is the side view of the interposing body216. On the right side is the frontal view of the interposing body216. The interposing body216is preferably made in two halves so that it can be securably assembled to the groove in the clamp ram206. The two halves of the interposing body216are lockably engagable relative to each other so the locked and engaging halves don't fall off the groove in the clamp ram206when the molding system202operates. For example, a pin (or pins) extends from clamp ram206and into the interposing body216to engage the clamp ram206to the interposing body216.

FIG. 2Gis a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly238(hereafter referred to as the “camp assembly”238) according to the second exemplary embodiment, the clamp assembly238includes an interposing body240that interacts With or abuts against the inter-meshable structure208. The interposing body240is lockably repositionable relative to the clamp ram206and/or the inter-meshable structure208. The interposing body240is shaped to form a ring. The interposing body240is preferably made in two halves so that it can be securably assembled to the groove in the clamp ram206. The two halves of the interposing body240are lockably engagable relative to each other so the locked and engaging halves don't fall off the groove in the clamp ram206when the molding machine operates.

FIG. 2His a side view and a frontal view of the interposing body240ofFIG. 2G. On the left side is a side view of the interposing body240. On the right side is a frontal view of the interposing body240.

FIG. 2Iis a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly242(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”242) according to the third exemplary embodiment. The clamp assembly242includes an interposing body244and an interposing body245that abuts the interposing body244. The interposing body244provides the inter-abutable structure212. The interposing body245helps to improve the transfer of force from the clamp piston204to the clamp ram206. The clamp ram206defines a groove246for receiving the interposing bodies244and245.

FIG. 2Jis a side view of the interposing body244and the interposing body245ofFIG. 2I. The interposing body244and the interposing body245each form a ring-like structure that is removable from the clamp ram206. The interposing bodies244and245are preferably each made in two halves so that they can be securably assembled to the groove in the clamp ram206. The two halves of the interposing body244are lockably engagable relative to each other so the locked and engaging halves don't fall off the groove in the clamp ram206when the molding machine operates. The two halves of the interposing body245are lockably engagable relative to each other so the locked and engaging halves don't fall off the groove in the clamp ram206when the molding machine operates.

FIG. 2Kis a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly248(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”248) according to the fourth exemplary embodiment. The clamp assembly248includes an interposing body250that is removable and fits within a groove252defined by the clamp ram206. An embankment254extends from the clamp ram206to contact and abut against the interposing body250. The embankment254is an integral extension of the clamp ram206.

FIG. 2Lis a side view of the interposing body250ofFIG. 2K. The interposing body250is a square-like structure that is detachable from the clamp ram206. The interposing body250preferably includes three portions so that it can be securably assembled to the groove in the clamp ram206. The three portions of the interposing body250are lockably engagable relative to each other so the locked and engaging portions don't fall off the groove in the clamp ram206when the molding machine operates.

FIG. 2Mis a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly256(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”256) according to the fifth exemplary embodiment. The clamp assembly256includes an interposing body258that extends from the clamp ram206and is integral to the clamp ram206. The interposing body258is not removable from the clamp ram206. The inter-abuttable structure212includes a ram surface (which is formed part of the interposing body258) defined by the clamp ram206. The inter-abuttable structure214includes a piston surface defined by the clamp piston204. The ram surface is abuttable to the piston surface.

FIG. 2Nis a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly260(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”260) according to the sixth exemplary embodiment. The inter-abuttable structure214includes an extension262that extends from the clamp piston204and is integral to the clamp piston204. The inter-abutable structure212includes an interposing body264that extends from the clamp ram206and is integral to the clamp ram206. The interposing body264presents a body surface that abuts a surface of the extension262.

FIG. 2Ois a cross-sectional view of a molding-system clamp assembly266(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”266) according to the seventh exemplary embodiment. The inter-abuttable structure214is a surface of the clamp ram206. The inter-abuttable structure214includes a bearing270of an interposing body268that interacts with a surface of the clamp ram206. The bearing270extends from the interposing body268. The bearing270reduces mechanical wear of the interposing body268.

When the operations of rotating the inter-meshable structures208,210and breaking open the mold275are performed one after the other in a serial fashion (that is, these movements are not performed simultaneously), the clamping cycle time of the clamp assembly200was measured to be 3.7% lower than the cycle time of the known clamp assembly ofFIGS. 1A to 1E.

When the operations of the inter-meshable structures208,210and breaking open the mold275are performed simultaneously (or near simultaneously) or in an overlapped manner, the clamping cycle time of the clamp assembly200was measured to be 16.3% lower than the cycle time of the known clamp assembly ofFIGS. 1A to 1E.

The reduction in cycle time may be attributed to the fact that the actions associated withFIG. 1E(the upper-right corner and the lower-left corner) is avoided, in which the clamp piston118abuts against and is then pushed against the clamp ram116(to apply the mold break force), and then the teeth of the inter-meshable structures120,142that are inter-meshing with each other are positioned so as to not interfere with each other before the clamp piston118may be de-meshed from the clamp ram116. The exemplary embodiments avoid using the sequencing of the actions of the known clamp assembly100so that a reduced cycle time may be achieved.

FIGS. 2P to 2Sare cross-sectional views of clamp assembly200that may be optionally used during a clamp-up phase (or a clamp-up sequence) in which the mold275is clamped up.

FIG. 2Pshows the actuator229actuated to move the clamp column220toward the mold halves276,278so that the interposing body216will be moved toward the clamp piston204and so that the mold halves276,278are stroked to close against each other.

FIG. 2Qshows the actuator229moving the clamp column220which moves the interposing body216onto an abutting relationship with the clamp piston204, and the mold halves276,278are closed against each other.

FIG. 2Rshows the inter-meshable structures208,210intermeshing with each other (so that the piston204and the clamp ram206become in effect intermeshed) and that there is clearance between the teeth of the inter-meshable structures208,210.

FIG. 2Sshows the clamping-hydraulic column224energized so that the clamping force is generated and applied to the mold halves276,278, and that the clamp piston204and the clamp ram206no longer inter-abut one another. In an alternative embodiment, the sequence described forFIG. 2Qand the sequence described forFIG. 2Rmay be performed simultaneously at least in part.

When the operations of rotating the inter-meshable structures208,210and clamping up the mold275are performed one after the other in a serial manner (that is, these movements are not performed simultaneously or in an overlapping manner), the clamping cycle time is 1.5% lower than the cycle time of the known clamp assembly ofFIGS. 1A to 1E.

When the operations of rotating the inter-meshable structures208,210and clamping up the mold275are performed simultaneously or in an overlapping manner, the clamping cycle time is 4% lower than the cycle time of the known clamp assembly ofFIGS. 1A to 1E.

When the operations of the inter-meshable structures208,210and breaking open the mold275are performed near simultaneously and then when the operations of rotating the inter-meshable structures208,210and clamping up the mold275are performed near simultaneously, the best-case clamping cycle time was measured to be 20% lower than the clamping cycle time of the known clamp assembly100ofFIGS. 1A to 1E. It will be appreciated that a 20% reduction in clamping cycle time represents a major break through in molding system clamp assemblies.

FIGS. 3A and 3Bare top views of molding-system clamp assemblies302,304(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assemblies”302,304) according to the eighth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3Ais a cross-sectional view of the clamp assemblies302,304used in a molding system306. The clamp assemblies302,304are similar to each other. The clamp assemblies302,304are depicted in a non-clamping position, and the molding system306is depicted in a mold-opened position. The molding system306includes an injection unit308that injects, in use, a molding material into a mold cavity that is defined (or created) by a mold309. The mold309includes a movable mold half310and stationary mold half312(that is, the mold cavity is defined once the mold halves310,312are moved together (as depicted inFIG. 3B), but they are depicted offset from each other inFIG. 3A). The movable mold half310is connected to a movable platen314. The stationary mold half312is connected to a stationary platen316. The stationary platen316is fixedly attached to a frame (not depicted) of the molding system306. A platen actuator318is connected to the movable platen314, and is actuated to move the movable platen314toward and away from the stationary platen316. Tie bars320,322are attached to the movable platen314and extend toward and engage with the stationary platen316. Usually, four tie bars are used. Two tie bars are hidden behind the tie bars320,322and the hidden tie bars are similar to the tie bars320,322. The stationary platen316defines passageways324,326that are configured to receive (and accommodate) the tie bars320,322respectively.

The clamp assembly302includes a clamp piston328and a clamp ram330. The clamp ram330and the clamp piston328have inter-meshable structures332,334which are configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston328relative to the clamp ram330.FIG. 3Adepicts the inter-meshable structure332, andFIG. 3Bdepicts the inter-meshable structure334. The inter-meshable structure334is not depicted inFIG. 3A(the reason for this will be explained below). The clamp ram330and the clamp piston328have inter-abuttable structures336,338that are configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston328relative to the clamp ram330. Preferably, the inter-abuttable structure336is a surface of the clamp piston328, and the inter-abuttable structure338is a surface of an interposing body340.

According to an alternative embodiment, the interposing body340is not used and the inter-abuttable structure338is a surface of the clamp ram330and/or the tie bar320(these alternatives are not depicted inFIGS. 3Aor3B).

The interposing body340is connected to the clamp ram330and/or the tie bar320(but preferably it is connected to the clamp ram330). The clamp ram330is connected to (or is integral to) a distal end of the tie bar320. The passageway324is configured to receive and to permit passage of the clamp ram330, and this arrangement permits the clamp ram330to interact with the clamp piston328. According to the eight embodiment, each tie bar has a clamp ram connected at its distal end. Generally the inter-meshable structures332,334, in cooperation with inter-abuttable structures336,338, transfer a force to the mold309. Preferably, the inter-meshable structures332,334transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold309, and the inter-abuttable structures336,338to transfer a mold-break force over to the mold309.

The clamp assembly302includes a housing356that houses the clamp piston328. Defined between the housing356and the clamp piston328is a clamping-hydraulic column358and a mold-break hydraulic column360. An actuator362is connected between the housing356and the clamp piston328. The actuator362actuates (preferably, rotates) the clamp piston328so that the inter-meshable structure334(that extends from the clamp piston328) may be rotated away from the inter-meshable structure332.FIG. 3Adepicts the inter-meshable structure334rotated away (and thus it is not depicted inFIG. 3A) and this arrangement permits the clamp ram330to pass through the passageway324and into position for inter-meshable engagement with the clamp piston328.

The clamp assembly304is similar to the clamp assembly302. The clamp assembly304includes a clamp piston342, and a clamp ram344. The clamp ram344and the clamp piston342include inter-meshable structures346,348which are configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston342relative to the clamp ram344.FIG. 3Adepicts the inter-meshable structure346, andFIG. 3Bdepicts the inter-meshable structure348. The inter-meshable structure348is not depicted inFIG. 3A(the reason for this will be explained below). The clamp ram344and the clamp piston342have inter-abuttable structures350,352configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston342relative to the clamp ram344. Preferably, the inter-abuttable structure350is a surface of the clamp piston342, and the inter-abuttable structure352is a surface of an interposing body354.

According to an alternative embodiment, the interposing body354is not used and the inter-abuttable structure352is a surface of the clamp ram344and/or the tie bar322(these alternatives are not depicted inFIGS. 3A and 3B).

The interposing body354is connected to the clamp ram344and/or the tie bar322(but preferably it is connected to the clamp ram344). The clamp ram344is connected to (or is integral to) a distal end of the tie bar322. The passageway324is configured to receive and to permit passage of the clamp ram344, and this arrangement permits the clamp ram344to interact with the clamp piston342.

The clamp assembly304includes a housing364that houses the clamp piston342. Defined between the housing364and the clamp piston342is a clamping-hydraulic column368and a mold-break hydraulic column370. An actuator372is connected between the housing364and the clamp piston342. The actuator372actuates (preferably, rotates) the clamp piston342so that the inter-meshable structure348that extends from the clamp piston342may be rotated away from the inter-meshable structure346.FIG. 3Adepicts the inter-meshable structure348rotated away (and thus it is not depicted inFIG. 3A) and this arrangement permits the clamp ram344to pass through the passageway326and into position for inter-meshable engagement with the clamp piston342. A set of teeth (one for the clamp piston342and another set for the clamp ram344) disengage (that is, not intermeshed) from each other so that the tie bars are free to move (translate) axially. Clamp-piston teeth extend from the clamp piston342, the clamp-ram teeth extend from the clamp ram344, and the clamp-ram teeth inter-mesh with the clamp-piston teeth (between an un-meshed position and a meshed position).

FIG. 3Bis a cross-sectional view of the clamp assemblies302,304depicted in a clamp position. The molding system306is depicted in a mold-closed position. The platen actuator318is actuated to stroke or move the movable platen314toward the stationary platen316until the movable mold half310is closed against the stationary mold half312. The actuator362is actuated to move the inter-meshable structure334into inter-meshed engagement with the inter-meshable structure332. The actuator372is actuated to move the inter-meshable structure348into inter-meshed engagement with the inter-meshable structure346. The clamp assemblies302,304operate in a similar manner to that of the clamp assemblies according to the exemplary embodiments described above.

When the clamping-hydraulic column358is pressurized and the mold-break hydraulic column360is depressurized, the clamp piston328becomes actuated to apply a clamp force (via the clamp ram330) to the tie bar320which in turn applies the clamp force to the movable platen314(hereafter referred to as the “platen314”) and then onto the mold halves310,312. The clamping force clamps the mold halves310,312to remain clamped together while the molding material is injected under pressure by the injection unit308into the mold cavity (the mold cavity is defined by the mold halves310,312). When the clamping-hydraulic column358is depressurized and the mold-break hydraulic column360is pressurized, a mold-break force is applied by the clamp piston328, and the clamp piston328becomes actuated to apply the mold-break force to the tie bar320which in turn applies (or transmits) the mold-break force to the platen314and then onto the mold halves310,312. The mold-break force breaks the mold halves310,312apart from each other, then the platen actuator318is actuated to move (or stroke) the movable platen314away from the stationary platen316, and then the molded article may be removed from the mold cavity.

When the clamping-hydraulic column368is pressurized and the mold-break hydraulic column370is depressurized, the clamp piston342becomes actuated to apply a clamping force (via the clamp ram344) to the tie bar322which in turn applies the clamping force to the platen314and then onto the mold halves310,312. The clamping force clamps the mold halves310,312to remain clamped together while the molding material is injected under pressure by the injection unit308into the mold cavity. When the clamping-hydraulic column368is depressurized and the mold-break hydraulic column370is pressurized, a mold-break force is applied by the clamp piston342. The clamp piston342becomes actuated to apply the mold-break force to the tie bar322which in turn applies (or transmits) the mold-break force to the platen314and then onto the mold halves310,312. The mold-break force breaks the mold halves310,312apart from each other so that the molded article may be removed from the mold cavity.

FIGS. 4A,4B and4C are views of molding-system clamp assemblies402,404(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assemblies”402,404) according to the ninth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4Ashows that the clamp assemblies402,404are similar to each other. To facilitate an understanding of the ninth embodiment; elements of the ninth embodiment that are similar to those according to the eighth embodiment (as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B) are identified by reference numerals that are differentiated from the reference numerals of the eighth embodiment by a four-hundred designation rather than a three-hundred designation. For example, the clamp ram of the ninth embodiment is labeled430rather than being labeled330.

FIG. 4Ashows that the clamp assemblies402,404do not include clamp pistons respectively. The function of the clamp pistons328,342of the eighth embodiment are incorporated into a movable platen414as explained below. Inter-meshable structures434,448are depicted inFIG. 4Aas being unmeshed from intermeshable structures432,446respectively. However, the inter-meshable structures434,448are depicted inFIG. 4Bas being inter-meshed with the intermeshable structures432,446respectively. The inter-meshable structures434,448are attached to the stationary platen416. The intermeshable structures432,446are attached to tie bars420,422respectively. The tie bars420,422are configured differently that the tie bars320,322ofFIGS. 3A. 3B, in such as way that the movable platen414houses the clamping-hydraulic columns458,468and the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470. The clamping-hydraulic columns458,468are actuated to apply a clamping force to mold409(via the tie bars420,422). The mold-break hydraulic columns460,470are actuated to apply a mold break force to the mold409(via the tie bars420,422). Caps474,476are used to cover the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470respectively.

The platen actuator418will be actuated to stroke the movable platen414toward a stationary platen416so that the mold halves410,412may be closed against each other.

FIG. 4Bshows the clamp assemblies402,404actuated to apply a clamp force to the mold409. The platen actuator418has stroked the movable platen414toward the stationary platen416until the mold halves410,412have been closed against each another. Then, the inter-meshable structures432,434were actuated to intermesh each other, and the inter-meshable structures446,448were actuated to intermesh each other. Then, the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470were deactuated while the clamping-hydraulic columns458,468were actuated (pressurized) so that the clamping-hydraulic columns458,468now act to pull the tie bar420away from the injection unit408(thus transmitting a clamping force which acts to pull the mold half412toward the mold half410) and thus a clamping force is transmitted to a mold409(through or via the inter-meshable structures432,434that are intermeshed, and via the inter-meshable structures446,448that are intermeshed). The clamping-hydraulic columns458,468will push the tie bars420,422toward the platen actuator418along the directions indicated by the arrows421,423. The clamping-hydraulic columns458,468will push the movable platen414along the direction indicated by an arrow421.

FIG. 4Cshows the clamp assemblies402,404actuated to apply a mold break force to the mold409. The inter-meshable structures432,434were actuated to un-mesh from each other as well as the inter-meshable structures446,448were actuated to un-mesh from each other. Then the clamping-hydraulic columns458,468were de-pressurized and the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470were pressurized so that the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470act to push the movable platen414along the direction indicated by arrow415, and also act to push the tie bars420,422along the directions indicated by the arrows421,423. In effect, the interposing body440and the interposing454are moved to abut, in effect, the stationary platen416(and/or the inter-meshable structures434,448which are attached to the stationary platen416) so that in effect, the clamp-break force is transmitted to the mold halves410,412from the mold-break hydraulic columns460,470through or via the inter-abuttable structures436,438and/or the stationary platen416.

Generally, the inter-meshable structures432,434, in cooperation with inter-abuttable structures436,438, transfer a force to the mold409. Preferably, the inter-meshable structures432,434transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold409, and the inter-abuttable structures436;438transfer a mold-break force over to the mold409. A similar structure to that of the clamp assembly402is arranged for the clamp assembly404.

FIG. 5is a view of a molding-system clamp assembly500(hereafter referred to as the “clamp assembly”500) according to the tenth exemplary embodiment. To facilitate an understanding of the tenth embodiment, elements of the tenth embodiment that are similar to those according to the first embodiment (as shown inFIG. 2A) are identified by reference numerals that are differentiated from the reference numerals of the first embodiment by a five-hundred designation rather than a two-hundred designation. For example, the clamp ram for the tenth embodiment is labeled506rather than being labeled206.

According to the tenth embodiment, the clamp assembly500is usable with a tie bar580and/or a tie bar582. The tie bars580,582are attached to a housing522, are slidably mounted relative to a movable platen572and are attached to a stationary platen574. Lock nuts584,586attach the tie bars580,582respectively to the stationary platen574.

When inter-meshable structures510,508are actuated to intermesh each other, and a clamping-hydraulic column524is pressurized (actuated) and a mold-break hydraulic column526is de-pressurized (de-actuated), the clamping-hydraulic column524acts to push the tie bar580toward the stationary platen574and also acts, to push a clamp ram506which then pushes the clamp column520toward the movable platen572, and thus in effect a clamping force is transmitted to a mold575from the clamping-hydraulic column524through or via inter-meshable structures510,505and the tie bars580,582. The mold575includes mold halves576,578.

When the inter-meshable structures510,508are actuated to un-mesh from each other, and the clamping-hydraulic column524is de-pressurized and the mold-break hydraulic column526is pressurized, the mold-break hydraulic column526pushes the clamp ram506which in effect pushes the clamp column520away from the movable-platen572(and also pushes the tie bar580toward the stationary platen574), and thus a clamp-break force is transmitted to the mold halves576,578from the mold-break hydraulic column526through or via inter-abuttable structures514,512.

Generally, the inter-meshable structures508,510, in cooperation with inter-abuttable structures512,514, transfer a force to the mold575. Preferably, the inter-meshable structures508,510transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold575, and the inter-abuttable structures512,514transfer a mold-break force over to the mold575. It is understood that an inter-abuttable structure512includes teeth that have rear-tooth portions flank-tooth portions, and that an inter-abuttable structure514includes teeth that have rear-tooth portions flank-tooth portions.

FIG. 6is block schematic of an article of manufacture600used for directing a data processing system602to control a molding-system clamp assembly200,238,242,248,256,260,266,302,402,500ofFIGS. 1A to 5, respectively, according to an eleventh embodiment. The molding-system clamp assembly200,238,242,248,256,260,266,302,402,500is operatively connectable to the data processing system602. The article of manufacture600includes a data processing system usable medium604embodying one or more instructions606that are executable by the data processing system602. The data processing system usable medium604may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a hard drive and/or RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The data processing system usable medium604may also be a signal that carries the one or more instructions606over a network, such as the Internet, to the data processing system602.

The one or more instructions606includes instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures (212;214;336;338;436;438;512;514), and also includes instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures (208;210;332;334;432;434;508;510), the inter-abuttable structures (212;214;336;338;436;438;512;514) configured to, in cooperation with the inter-meshable structures (205;210;332;334;432;434;505;510), transfer a force to a mold (275;309;409;575).

The one or more instructions606also includes, but is not limited to, the following (in no particular order):

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures to be selectively inter-meshable;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to be selectively inter-abuttable;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures to transfer a mold-clamping force over to the mold;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to transfer a mold-break force over to the mold;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate at least one of the inter-abuttable structures to be offset from any one of the inter-meshable structures;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures of a ram surface defined by a clamp ram and of a piston surface defined by a clamp piston;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to include an interposing body;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate a clamp ram to be abuttable against the interposing body;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate a clamp piston to be abuttable against the interposing body.

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures to selectively inter-mesh a clamp piston relative to a clamp ram;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures to selectively inter-mesh a platen relative to a clamp ram;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to selectively inter-abut the platen relative to the clamp ram;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-meshable structures to selectively inter-mesh a clamp piston relative to the clamp ram;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate the inter-abuttable structures to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram, and wherein the clamp ram is connectable to a clamp column, the clamp ram is connectable to a platen;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate a mold-break hydraulic column to be interactable with a clamping piston, the clamp piston housed in a housing, the mold-break hydraulic column to be housed in the housing;

instructions for directing the data processing system602to actuate a clamping-hydraulic column to be interactable with the clamping piston, the clamping-hydraulic column housed in the housing; and/or

instructions for directing the data processing system to actuate a tie bar to attach to the housing, the tie bar slidably mounted relative to a movable platen, and tie bar attached to a stationary platen, wherein the inter-meshable structures are configured to selectively inter-mesh the clamp piston relative to a clamp ram, wherein the inter-abuttable structures are configured to selectively inter-abut the clamp piston relative to the clamp ram.

According to a twelfth eleventh embodiment, the data processing system602is provided for controlling the molding-system clamp assembly (200;238;242;248;256;260;266;302;402;500) that is operatively connectable to the data processing system602. The data processing system602includes a data processing system usable medium604embodying one or more instructions606executable by the data processing system602.

The description of the exemplary embodiments provides examples of the present invention, and these examples do not limit the scope of the present invention. It is understood that the scope of the present invention is limited by the claims. The concepts described above may be adapted for specific conditions and/or functions, and may be further extended to a variety of other applications that are within the scope of the present invention. Having thus described the exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent that modifications and enhancements are possible without departing from the concepts as described. Therefore, what is to be protected by way of letters patent are limited only by the scope of the following claims: