Method for adding an adder module to a modular injection molding machine

Abstract

A modular injection molding machine has an extruder/injector assembly, a carriage assembly for carrying the extruder/injector assembly, a first clamping apparatus for holding an associated first mold, a main frame assembly which supports the first clamping apparatus and, a first adder module assembly. The first adder module assembly is selectively operatively connectable to the main frame assembly and is used to support a second clamping apparatus at any selectable laterally spaced distance. The carriage assembly selectively carries the extruder/injector assembly between the first and second clamping apparatuses. The preferred clamping apparatus has a first clamp assembly which is rigidly connected to an associated support member, a second clamp assembly which is movably connected to the first clamp assembly, a lower platen assembly which is operatively connected to the first clamp assembly, an upper platen assembly which is operatively connected to the second clamp assembly and, moving means for selectively moving the second clamp assembly. The first and second clamp assemblies form a collapsible C frame support structure. To add an adder module to a modular injection molding machine, first a base plate is positioned at any selectable laterally spaced distance from a bottom plate. Next, a front plate is placed on a front shelf on the base plate. A back key is then installed, being received within a back key slot on the bottom plate and within a back key slot on the base plate. After that, a tie bar is connected to the bottom plate, the first plate, the base plate and the front plate. A front key is then installed, being received within the key slot of the first plate and within a key slot of the front plate. Finally, a second clamping apparatus is connected to the front plate.