Patent ID: 6893600

Claim:
A method for exchanging a first set of dies with a second set of dies in an injection molding machine, comprising the steps of: connecting the second set of dies to a preheat controller by means of a preheat connection assembly; preheating the second set of dies; disconnecting the preheat connection assembly from the second set of dies; storing the preheat connection assembly on a stand that is disposed adjacent the second set of dies; disconnecting a machine connection assembly from said first set of dies, said preheat connection assembly and said machine connection assembly being compatible such that each may be connected to any of said first and second set of dies; unclamping the first set of dies and simultaneously opening a rear door of said injection molding machine; following unclamping of the first set of dies, moving the first set of dies onto a mold transfer cart; immediately following placement of the first set of dies on the mold transfer cart, moving the cart to place the second set of dies in position to be installed in the injection molding machine; while moving the second set of dies in position for installation in the injection molding machine, positioning the die platans to receive the second set of dies; at least partially simultaneously with the platan positioning step, moving the second set of molds into the injection molding machine; clamping the second set of dies within the injection molding machine; and, reconnecting the hoses with the second set of dies.