Patent classifications
B29C2049/2454
UNIVERSAL IN-MOLD LABELING APPARATUS AND SYSTEM INCORPORATING THE APPARATUS
A system combining a machine for blow-molding articles with a universal in-mold labeling apparatus. The apparatus has a frame on which turntables are mounted. Each turntable has an air rotary union, facilitating rotation of the respective turntable, and suction cups adapted to pick, hold, and release labels. The turntables deliver labels to the open molds of the machine. The apparatus also has a vertical slide positioned between the turntables. A placement head engages the turntables and moves up the vertical slide to a position in the open molds. At least one label magazine is affixed to the frame and retains the labels. Strategically placed air valves provide air and vacuum to pick, hold, and release labels. A human machine interface facilitates communication between an operator of the system and the system. Finally, a control system is provided to allow the operator to program and control both the machine and apparatus.
Universal in-mold labeling apparatus and system incorporating the apparatus
A system combining a machine for blow-molding articles with a universal in-mold labeling apparatus. The apparatus has a frame on which turntables are mounted. Each turntable has an air rotary union, facilitating rotation of the respective turntable, and suction cups adapted to pick, hold, and release labels. The turntables deliver labels to the open molds of the machine. The apparatus also has a vertical slide positioned between the turntables. A placement head engages the turntables and moves up the vertical slide to a position in the open molds. At least one label magazine is affixed to the frame and retains the labels. Strategically placed air valves provide air and vacuum to pick, hold, and release labels. A human machine interface facilitates communication between an operator of the system and the system. Finally, a control system is provided to allow the operator to program and control both the machine and apparatus.
Blow molded airflow conduit with outer insulation
A method of forming a blow molded plastic article wherein the article comprises an airflow conduit, comprising: providing a first sheet of insulation material located on a insulation carrier; providing a blow molding mold including two halves and having a molding surface defining a molding cavity to form the article; locating the insulation carrier between the two halves of the blow molding mold; transferring the first sheet of insulation material from the insulation carrier to the blow molding mold; introducing an extrudate of thermoplastic composition between the two halves of the blow molding mold; closing the blow molding mold; forming the extrudate to a shape of the mold cavity of the blow molding mold to form the article; and bonding the extrudate to the first sheet of insulation material as the extrudate is being formed to the shape of the mold cavity.