USOO837 1840B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,371,840 B2

Horigome et al. (45) Date of Patent: Feb. 12, 2013
(54) BLOW MOLDINGAPPARATUS (56) References Cited

(75) Inventors: Hiroshi Horigome, Miyota-machi (JP); U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

Kazuyuki Yokobayashi, Ueda (JP); 4,155.974. A * 5/1979 Valyi ............................. 264,530
Daisaburo Takehana, Ueda (JP) 4.285,657 A * 8/1981 Ryder ........................... 425,533
5,169,654 A 12/1992 Koga
5,206,039 A 4/1993 Valyi
(73) Assignee: Nissei ASB Machine Co., Ltd., Nagano 5,261,809 A 1 1/1993 Koga
(JP) 5,744,176 A 4/1998 Takada
6,019,933 A * 2/2000 Takada et al. ................. 264,532
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 JP A-03-203622 5, 1991
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. JP A-05-031795 9, 1993
JP A-05-237921 9, 1993
(21) Appl. No.: 13/417.276 JP A-06-305.002 11, 1994
JP A-08-132517 5, 1996
(22) Filed: Mar 11, 2012 JP A-08-24.4103 9, 1996
JP A-10-076567 3, 1998
JP A-10-076757 3, 1998
(65) Prior Publication Data JP A-2003-236923 8, 2003
US 2012/O189727 A1 Jul. 26, 2012 JP A-2005-007797 1, 2005
* cited by examiner
Related U.S. Application Data Primary Examiner — Robert B Davis
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — David L. Hoffman;
(63) Continuation of application No. PCT/JP2010/064586, Hoffman Patent Group
filed on Aug. 27, 2010. (57) ABSTRACT
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data A blow molding apparatus includes an injection molding
station (12) that injection-molds preforms (1A) held by N (N
Sep. 11, 2009 (JP) ................................. 2009-210876 is an integer equal to or larger than 2) rows of holding plates
Feb. 26, 2010 (JP) ................................. 2010-042953 (30), a temperature control station (14) that performs a tem
Apr. 1, 2010 (JP) ................................. 2010-084962 perature control operation on the preforms (1A), a blow
molding station (16) that blow-molds the preforms into con
(51) Int. C. tainers, and a row pitch change section (130) that changes the
B29C 49/06 (2006.01) row pitch of the N rows of holding plates so that P1<P3<P2 is
B29C 49/36 (2006.01) satisfied, P1 being the row pitch of the N rows of holding
B29C 49/64 (2006.01) plates when they hold the performs. P2 being the row pitch of
(52) U.S. C. ......... 425/526; 425/533; 425/534; 425/540 the N rows of holding plates when they hold the containers,
and P3 being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates
(58) Field of Classification Search .................. 425/526, when they hold the preforms that are transferred to N rows of
425/533,534,538,540; 264/530 blow molds that are opened.
See application file for complete search history. 20 Claims, 25 Drawing Sheets

Election STEP (N CMONG

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U.S. Patent Feb. 12, 2013 Sheet 1 of 25 US 8,371,840 B2

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FIG. 2

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FIG. 3

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FIG. 4

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FIG. 5

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FIG. 6

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FIG. 7

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FIG. 8
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U.S. Patent Feb. 12, 2013 Sheet 10 of 25 US 8,371,840 B2

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FIG. 4

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FIG. 26

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 US 8,371,840 B2
1. 2
BLOW MOLDINGAPPARATUS a row pitch change section that changes the row pitch of the
N rows of holding plates so that P1<P3<P2 is satisfied, P1
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates when they
APPLICATION hold the plurality of preforms that have been injection
molded, P2 being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates
This application is a continuation of International Patent when they hold the plurality of containers that have been
Application No. PCT/JP2010/064586, having an interna blow-molded, and P3 being the row pitch of the N rows of
tional filing date of Aug. 27, 2010, which designated the holding plates when they hold the plurality of preforms that
United States and claims priority to Japanese Patent Applica are transferred to the N rows of blow molds that are opened.
tion No. 2009-210876 filed on Sep. 11, 2009, Japanese Patent 10 According to another aspect of the invention, there is pro
Application No. 2010-042953 filed on Feb. 26, 2010, and vided a blow molding apparatus comprising:
Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-084962 filed on Apr. 1, N (N is an integer equal to or larger than 2) rows of holding
2010, the entirety of which is each of the above International plates;
and Japanese applications being incorporated herein by ref N rows of blow molds that blow-mold a plurality of pre
CCC. 15 forms held by the N rows of holding plates into a plurality of
containers;
BACKGROUND a mold closing/opening device that closes/opens the N
rows of blow molds; and
The present invention relates to a blow molding apparatus a row pitch change section that changes a row pitch of the
that can change the row pitch of a plurality of rows of neck N rows of holding plates,
molds. each of the N rows of blow molds including a pair of blow
A blow molding apparatus that changes the row pitch of cavity split molds,
two rows of neck molds has been known. In JP-B-6-49331, a row pitch of the N rows of blow molds being P1 when the
the row pitch of blow cavity molds when the blow cavity N rows of blow molds are closed,
molds are opened after blow molding is set to differ from the 25 the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates being set to P1
row pitch of the blow cavity molds during a period other than when the N rows of blow molds are closed,
the mold opening period. In JP-B-8-13501, the row pitch of the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row among
two rows of holding plates that respectively hold neck molds the N rows being disposed at unsymmetrical positions with
is changed using a link mechanism. respect to a blow molding centerline when the N rows of blow
Japanese Patent No. 43 19863 discloses a rotary transfer 30 molds are closed, the row pitch of the N rows of blow molds
blow molding apparatus that is configured so that a transfer being P2 (P2-P1) when the N rows of blow molds are opened,
plate that is intermittently transferred is moved upward and the mold closing/opening device including two mold clos
downward in an injection molding station that is one of a ing/opening sections that close? open two blow cavity split
plurality of stations. JP-A-8-24.4103 discloses a structure in molds of the N rows of blow molds that are positioned on an
which a holding plate that holds preforms is Supported by a 35 outer side in a row direction, and a split mold synchronization
rotary transfer plate by sandwiching each end of the holding member that engages and moves the two blow cavity split
plate between a guide plate and a fall prevention member. molds in Synchronization, and being formed without using a
tie rod, and
SUMMARY the row pitch change section engaging the split mold syn
40 chronization member that is displaced corresponding to Syn
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided chronization movement of the two blow cavity split molds,
a blow molding apparatus comprising: and changing the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates
N(N is an integer equal to or larger than 2) rows of holding in synchronization with movement of the two blow cavity
plates, each of the N rows of holding plates holding a plurality split molds.
of neck molds, and being transferred along a transfer direc 45 According to another aspect of the invention, there is pro
tion; vided a blow molding apparatus comprising:
a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of N rows of holding plates, each of the N rows of holding
holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting the N plates holding a plurality of neck molds;
rows of holding plates so that a row pitch of the N rows of a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of
holding plates can be changed; 50 holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting the N
an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural rows of holding plates so that a row pitch of the N rows of
ity of preforms, the injection molding station including N holding plates can be changed;
rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the plural an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural
ity of neck molds that are held by each of the N rows of ity of preforms, the injection molding station including N
holding plates; 55 rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the plural
a temperature control station that includes N rows oftem ity of neck molds that are held by each of the N rows of
perature-controlled pot molds that are disposed on a down holding plates; and
stream side of the injection molding station in the transfer a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds,
direction, and performs a temperature control operation by and blow-molds the plurality of preforms held by the N rows
disposing the plurality of preforms held by the N rows of 60 of holding plates into a plurality of containers,
holding plates in the N rows of temperature-controlled pot the Support-transfer member including:
molds; two rail members that are disposed on either end of the N
a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds rows of holding plates in a longitudinal direction;
that are disposed on a downstream side of the temperature at least one reinforcement shaft that is provided along a row
control station in the transfer direction, and blow-molds the 65 direction of the N rows of holding plates; and
plurality of preforms held by the N rows of holding plates into two first securing sections that secure either end of the at
a plurality of containers; and least one reinforcement shaft,
 US 8,371,840 B2
3 4
each of the N rows of holding plates including two guide FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a rail member
members that are guided along the two rail members, and and a guide member that are disposed on each end of two rows
support the N rows of holding plates so that the row pitch of of holding plates in the longitudinal direction.
the N rows of holding plates can be changed, and
each of the N rows of holding plates having at least one first DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY
through-hole that receives the at least one reinforcement EMBODIMENTS
shaft.
When using a one-stage method (hot parison method) that
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS blow-molds a preform (parison) that retains heat applied dur
10
ing injection molding into a container, the number of pre
FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating four main steps forms that can be injection-molding at the same time is lim
performed by a rotary transfer blow molding apparatus ited. On the other hand, productivity can be improved by
according to one embodiment of the invention. increasing the number of rows of preforms (i.e., increasing
FIG. 2 is a view showing an injection molding step that 15 the number of preforms that are molded at the same time)
injection-molds two rows of preforms disposed at a row pitch when the preform is small (see JP-B-6-49331 and JP-B-8-
P1. 13501).
FIG. 3 is a view showing a temperature control step that When using a plurality of rows of holding plates that hold
preliminarily blow-molds two rows of preforms disposed at a the preforms, it is necessary to use a plurality of rows of
row pitch P1. molds. When the number of rows is 2, the row pitch is
FIG. 4 is a view showing a process that changes the row changed between a wide pitch when two rows of blow molds
pitch of two rows of preforms removed from temperature are opened and a narrow pitch during injection molding or the
controlled pot molds from P1 to P3. like (see JP-B-6-49331 and JP-B-8-13501).
FIG. 5 is a view showing a process that transfers two rows In JP-B-8-13501, the mold closing/opening device that
of preforms disposed at a row pitch P3 to blow molds. 25 closes/opens the two rows of blow molds performs a single
FIG. 6 is a view showing a process that closes blow molds sided operation, and the blow molds are connected using a
(row pitch: P1). horizontal tie rod.
FIG. 7 is a view showing a process that opens blow molds Several aspects of the invention may provide a highly flex
(row pitch: P2). ible blow molding apparatus that can easily implement a
FIG. 8 is a view showing a sequential ejection step (row 30 reduction in molded article transfer path and time loss while
pitch: P1). improving productivity by transferring a plurality of rows of
FIG. 9 is a front view showing a rotary transfer blow molded articles, can easily deal with an optional operation
molding apparatus according to one embodiment of the (e.g., preliminary blow molding during a temperature control
invention. step), and allows an easy change in the number of rows and
35 the like.
FIG. 10 is a view showing a temperature-controlled potlift Several aspects of the invention may provide a highly flex
mechanism disposed in a temperature control station. ible blow molding apparatus that allows easy installation/
FIG. 11 is a bottom view showing a transfer plate. removal of a plurality of rows of blow molds, and allows a
FIG. 12 is a view showing a row pitch change section change in the number of rows of blow molds.
disposed in a temperature control station. 40 Several aspects of the invention may provide a blow mold
FIG. 13 is a view showing a pitchchange operation of a row ing apparatus that can improve the quality of simultaneously
pitch change section disposed in a temperature control sta molded articles while improving productivity by transferring
tion. a plurality of rows of molded articles.
FIG. 14 is a view showing a row pitch-keeping member According to one embodiment of the invention, there is
disposed on a transfer member. 45 provided a blow molding apparatus comprising:
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XV N (N is an integer equal to or larger than 2) rows of holding
XV in FIG. 14. plates, each of the N rows of holding plates holding a plurality
FIG. 16 is a view showing a state in which two rows of of neck molds, and being transferred along a transfer direc
preforms disposed at a row pitch P3 have been transferred to tion;
a blow molding station. 50 a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of
FIG. 17 is a view showing a state in which two rows of holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting the N
preforms disposed at a row pitch P3 have been transferred to rows of holding plates so that a row pitch of the N rows of
two rows of open blow molds. holding plates can be changed;
FIG. 18 is a view showing a state in which blow molds are an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural
closed (row pitch: P1). 55 ity of preforms, the injection molding station including N
FIG. 19 is a view showing a state in which blow molds are rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the plural
opened (row pitch: P2). ity of neck molds that are held by each of the N rows of
FIG. 20 is a view showing a transfer operation from a blow holding plates;
molding station (row pitch: P2). a temperature control station that includes N rows oftem
FIG. 21 is a plan view showing an ejection station. 60 perature-controlled pot molds that are disposed on a down
FIG. 22 is a side view showing an ejection station. stream side of the injection molding station in the transfer
FIG. 23 is a view showing a state in which three rows of direction, and performs a temperature control operation by
blow molds are closed. disposing the plurality of preforms held by the N rows of
FIG. 24 is a view showing a state in which three rows of holding plates in the N rows of temperature-controlled pot
blow molds are opened. 65 molds;
FIG. 25 is a schematic oblique view showing two rows of a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds
holding plates secured on a Support-transfer member. that are disposed on a downstream side of the temperature
 US 8,371,840 B2
5 6
control station in the transfer direction, and blow-molds the plates, the plurality of containers may be ejected by increas
plurality of preforms held by the N rows of holding plates into ing an interval between the pair of split plates, and
a plurality of containers; and the ejection station may eject the plurality of containers
a row pitch change section that changes the row pitch of the sequentially from the N rows of holding plates that are dis
N rows of holding plates so that P1<P3<P2 is satisfied, P1 5 posed at the row pitch P1.
being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates when they According to the above configuration, interference can be
hold the plurality of preforms that have been injection prevented even ifa plurality of holding plates that are adjacent
molded, P2 being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates to each other at the minimum pitch P1 interfere with each
when they hold the plurality of containers that have been 10 other when the containers are ejected at the same time. More
blow-molded, and P3 being the row pitch of the N rows of over, since a single ejection operation of the ejection station
holding plates when they hold the plurality of preforms that can be completed within a short time, a plurality of ejection
are transferred to the N rows of blow molds that are opened. operations can be completed within one cycle.
According to one aspect of the invention, the row pitch P3 In the blow molding apparatus,
(P14P3<P2) is provided in addition to the row pitches P1 and 15 each of the N rows of blow molds may include a pair of
P2, and the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold blow cavity split molds,
the plurality of preforms that are transferred to the N rows of a row pitch of the N rows of blow molds may be P1 when
open blow molds is set to P3. This makes it possible to deal the N rows of blow molds are closed,
with various molding methods that cannot be implemented the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates may be set to
using two pitches. Specifically, when the number of rows of P1 when the N rows of blow molds are closed,
holding plates is 2, and the preforms are preliminary blow the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row among
molded in the temperature control station (see JP-B-8- the N rows may be disposed at unsymmetrical positions with
13501), since the body of the preforms expands due to pre respect to a blow molding centerline when the N rows of blow
liminary blow molding, the preforms cannot be transferred to molds are closed, and the row pitch of the N rows of blow
the open blow molds unsymmetrically when the row pitch is 25 molds may be P2 when the N rows of blow molds are opened,
P1 that is employed during injection molding. When the the plurality of preforms may be transferred to a space
number of rows of blow molds is an odd number equal to or between the pair of blow cavity split molds of each of the N
larger than 3, since a pair of blow cavity molds are opened rows of blow molds in a state in which the row pitch of the N
unsymmetrically with respect to the blow molding center, the rows of blow molds is set to be larger than P3, and the row
preforms cannot be transferred to the blow molds when the 30 pitch of the N rows of holding plates is set to P3,
row pitch is P1 that is employed during injection molding. If the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates may be set to
the preforms are transferred to the blow molds in a state in P2 when the row pitch of the N rows of blow molds is set to
which the row pitch is set to the maximum pitch P2, it is P2, and the plurality of containers may be transferred from the
difficult to design the layout of the apparatus due to an space between the pair of blow cavity split molds of each of
increase intransfer path of the preforms. Moreover, the size of 35 the N rows of blow molds.
the apparatus necessarily increases. If the preforms are trans When the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row
ferred to the blow molds in a state in which the row pitch is set among the N rows of blow molds are disposed at unsymmetri
to the maximum pitch P2, the blow molds cannot be closed to cal positions with respect to the blow molding centerline
the standby position in advance until the preform transfer when the N rows of blow molds are closed, the row pitch P2
operation is completed. Since the pitch change motion (op 40 of the N rows of blow molds when the N rows of blow molds
eration) is performed in the blow molding station, it is impor are opened is necessarily larger than the row pitch P2 of the N
tant to reduce the operation time in order to complete the rows of blow molds when the N rows of blow molds are
entire operation within one cycle. According to one aspect of closed. The transfer path of the preforms and the closing time
the invention, the above problems can be solved by setting the of the blow molds can be reduced by transferring the preforms
row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the plu- 45 to the N rows of blow molds while setting the row pitch of the
rality of preforms that are transferred to the N rows of open N rows of holding plates to P3 (<P2) instead of the maximum
blow molds to P3. pitch P2.
The blow molding apparatus may further comprise: In the blow molding apparatus,
an ejection station that is disposed on a downstream side of N may be 2, two blow cavity split molds among the pairs of
the blow molding station in the transfer direction, and ejects 50 blow cavity split molds of the two rows of blow molds that are
the plurality of containers from the N rows of holding plates, adjacent to each other in a row direction may be secured on a
the row pitch change section may include a P2-P1 pitch back side, and two blow cavity split molds among the pairs of
change section, the P2-P1 pitch change section being pro blow cavity split molds of the two rows of blow molds that are
vided in the ejection station, and may change the row pitch of disposed on an outer side in the row direction may be driven,
the N rows of holding plates from P2 to P1 before the ejection 55 so that the row pitch of the two rows of blow molds is set to P2
station ejects the plurality of containers from the N rows of when the two rows of blow molds are opened.
holding plates. In this case, since the pair of open blow cavity split molds
According to the above configuration, the installation are disposed at unsymmetrical positions with respect to the
space of an ejection member Such as a driving cylinder can be blow molding centerline when the blow molds are closed, it is
reduced. Moreover, since it is unnecessary to return the row 60 effective to set the row pitch to P3.
pitch from P2 to P1 in the injection molding station that In the blow molding apparatus,
requires the longest molding time, a sufficient injection cycle N may be 3, an outermost blow cavity split mold may be
time can be effectively provided. secured on a mold closing plate, the outermost blow cavity
In the blow molding apparatus, split mold may be one of the pair of blow cavity split molds of
each of the N rows of holding plates may include a pair of 65 each of two outer blow molds among the three rows of blow
split plates, each of the plurality of neck molds may include a molds, the other of the pair of blow cavity split molds of each
pair of neck split molds that are secured on the pair of split of the two outer blow molds may be respectively secured on
 US 8,371,840 B2
7 8
the pair of blow cavity split molds of a center blow mold In the blow molding apparatus,
among the three rows of blow molds on a back side, the Support-transfer member may include a row pitch
the three rows of blow molds may close contact with each keeping member that keeps the row pitch of the N rows of
other in the row direction, and the row pitch of the three rows holding plates to P1, P2, or P3,
of blow molds may be P1 when the three rows of blow molds 5 the N rows of holding plates may include a row pitch
are closed, change link mechanism that changes the row pitch,
the pair of blow cavity split molds of the center blow mold the row pitch change link mechanism may include a guide
may be driven line-symmetrically with respect to the blow rod that is Supported by the Support-transfer member and
molding centerline, the pair of blow cavity split molds of each 10
moved when changing the row pitch, the guide rod may
of the two outer blow molds may be disposed at unsymmetri include three engagement sections that are spaced along a
cal positions with respect to the blow molding centerline, and moving direction, and
the row pitch of the three rows of blow molds may be P2 when the row pitch-keeping member may include an engagement
the three rows of blow molds are opened. section that elastically engages one of the three engagement
In this case, since the pair of open blow cavity split molds 15
sections.
are disposed at unsymmetrical positions with respect to the This makes it possible to reliably keep the row pitch to P1,
blow molding centerline when the blow molds are closed, it is P2, or P3 even during the transfer operation or the like.
effective to set the row pitch to P3. According to another embodiment of the invention, there is
In the blow molding apparatus, provided a blow molding apparatus comprising:
the temperature control station may perform the tempera N (N is an integer equal to or larger than 2) rows of holding
ture control operation by preliminary blow-molding the plu plates;
rality of preforms in the N rows oftemperature-controlled pot N rows of blow molds that blow-mold a plurality of pre
molds so that a body of the plurality of preforms that have forms held by the N rows of holding plates into a plurality of
been preliminary blow-molded comes in contact with a containers;
heated inner wall surface of the N rows of temperature-con 25 a mold closing/opening device that closes/opens the N
trolled pot molds. rows of blow molds; and
In this case, since the diameter of the body of the preforms a row pitch change section that changes a row pitch of the
increases as compared with that during injection molding, it is N rows of holding plates,
effective to set the row pitch to P3 during the unsymmetrical each of the N rows of blow molds including a pair of blow
drive operation. 30
cavity split molds,
In the blow molding apparatus, a row pitch of the N rows of blow molds being P1 when the
the row pitch change section may include a P3-P1 pitch N rows of blow molds are closed,
change section, the P3-P1 pitch change section may be pro the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates being set to P1
vided in the blow molding station, and may reduce the row when the N rows of blow molds are closed,
pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the plurality of 35
preforms from P3 to P1 in synchronization with a closing the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row among
motion of the N rows of blow molds. the N rows being disposed at unsymmetrical positions with
Since the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates can be respect to a blow molding centerline when the N rows of blow
changed in Synchronization with the closing motion of the N molds are closed, the row pitch of the N rows of blow molds
rows of blow molds, a situation in which the preforms that 40 being P2 (P2-P1) when the N rows of blow molds are opened,
have not been blow-molded are damaged due to the mold the mold closing/opening device including two mold clos
closing motion can be prevented. ing/opening sections that close? open two blow cavity split
In the blow molding apparatus, molds of the N rows of blow molds that are positioned on an
the row pitch change section may include a P1-P2 pitch outer side in a row direction, and a split mold synchronization
change section, the P1-P2 pitch change section may be pro 45 member that engages and moves the two blow cavity split
vided in the blow molding station, and may increase the row molds in Synchronization, and being formed without using a
pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the plurality of tie rod, and
containers from P1 to P2 in Synchronization with an opening the row pitch change section engaging the split mold syn
motion of the N rows of blow molds. chronization member that is displaced corresponding to Syn
Since the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold 50
chronization movement of the two blow cavity split molds,
the plurality of containers can be changed in synchronization and changing the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates
with the opening motion of the N rows of blow molds, a in synchronization with movement of the two blow cavity
situation in which the containers are damaged due to the mold split molds.
opening motion can be prevented. According to this aspect of the invention, since the mold
In the blow molding apparatus, 55
the row pitch change section may include a P1-P3 pitch closing/opening device can beformed without using a tie rod,
change section, the P1-P3 pitch change section may be pro the blow molds can be installed and removed in the horizontal
vided in the temperature control station, and may increase the direction through the side of the blow molding apparatus.
row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the plu Moreover, the blow cavity split molds positioned on the out
rality of preforms from P1 to P3. 60 ermost side can be moved in Synchronization using the split
The row pitch is changed to P3 after the temperature con mold synchronization member while independently driving
trol step, but before the plurality of preforms are transferred to the blow cavity split molds using the mold closing/opening
the N rows of open blow molds. Since another pitch change sections. It is also possible to change the row pitch of the N
operation is required in the blow molding station, it is pref rows of holding plates by utilizing the displacement of the
erable to change the row pitch in the temperature control 65 split mold synchronization member, and change the row pitch
station. This also contributes to a reduction in the transfer path of the N rows of holding plates in synchronization with the
of the preforms. movement of the blow cavity split molds.
 US 8,371,840 B2
10
According to another embodiment of the invention, there is In this case, since at least part of the second securing section
provided a blow molding apparatus comprising: is disposed within the depression, a situation in which the
N rows of holding plates, each of the N rows of holding second securing section interferes with the split plate can be
plates holding a plurality of neck molds; prevented.
a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of 5 In the blow molding apparatus,
holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting the N each of the N rows of holding plates may include:
rows of holding plates so that a row pitch of the N rows of two second through-holes that are formed in the row direc
holding plates can be changed; tion at a plurality of positions in the longitudinal direction;
an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural two guide shafts that are respectively inserted into the two
ity of preforms, the injection molding station including N 10 second through-holes; and
rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the plural two biasing members that are respectively inserted into the
ity of neck molds that are held by each of the N rows of two guide shafts, and bias the pair of split plates in a closing
holding plates; and direction, and
a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds, the at least one reinforcement shaft may be disposed
and blow-molds the plurality of preforms held by the N rows 15 between the two guide shafts in the longitudinal direction.
of holding plates into a plurality of containers, According to the above configuration, the N rows of hold
the Support-transfer member including: ing plates are Supported by the guide members on each end in
two rail members that are disposed on either end of the N the longitudinal direction, Supported by the guide shafts in the
rows of holding plates in a longitudinal direction; inward position, and Supported by the at least one reinforce
at least one reinforcement shaft that is provided along a row 20 ment shaft in a further inward position. This makes it possible
direction of the N rows of holding plates; and to suppress flexure of the N rows of holding plates over the
two first securing sections that secure either end of the at entire area in the longitudinal direction. It is preferable to
least one reinforcement shaft, provide the guide shafts that Support the biasing members at
each of the N rows of holding plates including two guide remote positions in the longitudinal direction since a biasing
members that are guided along the two rail members, and 25 force that biases the pair of split plates in the closing direction
support the N rows of holding plates so that the row pitch of can be applied over the entire area in the longitudinal direc
the N rows of holding plates can be changed, and tion.
each of the N rows of holding plates having at least one first In the blow molding apparatus,
through-hole that receives the at least one reinforcement the plurality of neck molds may be closed after the support
shaft. 30 transfer member has been moved downward in the blow
If the N rows of holding plates are supported by the guide molding station, and
members on only the ends in the longitudinal direction, the N the blow molding station may include a plurality of stop
rows of holding plates may flex in the intermediate area in the pers that come in contact with the Support-transfer member
longitudinal direction. According to the above configuration, that has been moved downward to specify a lower limit posi
at least one first through-hole is formed in each of the N rows 35 tion of the support-transfer member at a position between the
of holding plates in the intermediate area in the longitudinal N rows of holding plates.
direction. At least one reinforcement shaft is inserted into the The N rows of holding plates may flex due to flexure of the
first through-hole, and the ends of the at least one reinforce support-transfer member that supports the N rows of holding
ment shaft are secured using the first securing sections. Theat plates. The plurality of stoppers provided in the blow molding
least one reinforcement shaft thus suppresses flexure of the N 40 station come in contact with the Support-transfer member that
rows of holding plates. Therefore, the preforms (containers) has been moved downward at a position between the N rows
can be molded at a uniform height using the neck molds held of holding plates, so that flexure of the Support-transfer mem
by the N rows of holding plates independently of the position ber can be suppressed.
of each holding plate in the longitudinal direction, so that Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in
uniform molding quality can be achieved. 45 detail below. Note that the following exemplary embodiments
In the blow molding apparatus, do not in any way limit the scope of the invention defined by
the Support-transfer member may further include a second the claims laid out herein, and all of the elements of the
securing section that secures an intermediate part of the at following exemplary embodiments should not necessarily be
least one reinforcement shaft at a position between the N rows taken as essential elements of the invention.
of holding plates. 50 1. Molding Process Performed by Blow Molding Appara
Since flexure of the reinforcement shaft is suppressed by tus, and Row Pitch
the second securing section, flexure of the N rows of holding FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating four main steps
plates can be further Suppressed. performed by a rotary transfer blow molding apparatus
In the blow molding apparatus, according to one embodiment of the invention. The four main
each of the N rows of holding plates may include a pair of 55 steps include an injection molding step, a temperature control
split plates, step, a blow molding step, and an ejection step. A rotary
each of the plurality of neck molds may include a pair of transfer blow molding apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes
neck split molds that are secured on the pair of split plates, an injection molding station 12, a temperature control station
the plurality of containers may be ejected from the plurality 14, a blow molding station 16, and an ejection station 18, the
of neck molds by increasing an interval between the pair of 60 injection molding station 12, the temperature control station
split plates, and 14, the blow molding station 16, and the ejection station 18
one of the pair of split plates of each of the N rows of being respectively provided in regions obtained by equally
holding plates may have a depression at a position opposite to dividing a transfer region (360° into four regions. The rotary
the second securing section. transfer blow molding apparatus 10 also includes four trans
When the containers are ejected by increasing the interval 65 fer plates (i.e., support-transfer members) 20A to 20D that are
between the pair of split plates, the split plates of the N rows intermittently transferred (rotated) to the injection molding
of holding plates may almost come in contact with each other. station 12, the temperature control station 14, the blow mold
 US 8,371,840 B2
11 12
ing station 16, and the ejection station 18. FIG. 1 illustrates a When transferring the preliminarily blow-molded pre
state in which the transfer plate 20A is intermittently trans forms 1B, the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 is
ferred to the injection molding station 12, the temperature set to the intermediate pitch P3 (P3<P1) (see FIG. 4) taking
control station 14, the blow molding station 16, and the ejec account of the blow molding step.
tion station 18. As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the blow molding station 16 that
Each of the transfer plates 20A to 20D Supports N (N is an is disposed on the downstream side of the temperature control
integer equal to or larger than 2) rows (e.g., two rows) of station 14 in the transfer direction includes N rows of blow
holding plates 30 (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIGS. 2 to 8) that molds 60. In the blow molding station 16, the preliminarily
respectively hold a molded article 1 (preform 1A, preliminar 10
blow-molded preforms 1B are blow-molded into a plurality
ily blow-molded preform 1B, or container 1C) so that the row of containers 1C in the N rows of blow molds 60 that are
pitch can be changed to P1, P2, or P3 (P1<P3<P2). For closed (see FIG. 6). In the blow molding step, the transfer
example, P1 =190 mm, P2=290 mm, and P3–210 mm plate 20A is moved downward to a height H3 in the same
FIGS. 2 to 8 show the row pitch of the two rows of holding manner as in the injection molding step.
plates 30 employed in each step. Note that the two rows of 15 Each of the N rows of blow molds 60 includes a pair of
holding plates 30 are supported by the transfer plate 20 (20A blow cavity split molds 62A and 62B. The blow cavity split
to 20D) so as to be slidable in the row direction (see FIG. 2 of molds 62A that are adjacent to each other in the row direction
JP-B-8-13501). are secured on the back side, and the blow cavity split molds
In the injection molding station 12 (see FIG. 2), a plurality 62B that are disposed on the outer side in the row direction are
of (twelve in FIG. 1) preforms 1A are injection-molded using closed/opened. The row pitch of the N rows of blow molds is
N rows of injection cavity molds 40, neck molds 42 that are set to P2 when the blow cavity split molds 62B that are
respectively held by the N rows of holding plates 30, and disposed on the outer side in the row direction have been
injection core molds (not shown). The row pitch during injec opened (see FIGS. 5 and 7). Specifically, the blow cavity split
tion molding is set to the minimum pitch P1. Note that the molds 62A and 62B are disposed at unsymmetrical positions
transfer plate 20A is moved downward to a height H2 during 25 with respect to the blow molding centerlines (i.e., the vertical
injection molding, and clamps the neck molds 42 held by the lines that indicate the pitch P3 in FIG. 5) when the blow cavity
transfer plate 20A to the two rows of injection cavity molds split mold 62B is opened (see FIG. 5).
40, the height H2 being lower than a height H1 of the transfer The row pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 is set to P3
plate 20A during transfer by a distance L. The transfer plate in a state in which the N rows of blow molds 60 are opened,
20A is moved upward after the preforms 1A have been injec 30 and the preliminarily blow-molded preform 1B is transferred
tion-molded, so that the preforms 1A held by the neck molds to the space between the pair of blow cavity split molds 62A
42 are removed from the injection cavity molds 40. The and 62B of each of the N rows of blow molds 60. If the row
injection core molds (not shown) are also moved upward, and pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 is set to P1 (P1<P3),
removed from the preforms 1A. The preforms 1A held by the the preliminarily blow-molded preform 1B interferes with the
neck molds 42 are then transferred to the temperature control 35 blow cavity split mold 62A when the preform 1B is trans
station 14 by rotating the transfer plate 20A. ferred to the space between the pair of blow cavity split molds
In the temperature control station 14 (see FIG. 3) that is 62A and 62B. If the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates
disposed on the downstream side of the injection molding 30 is set to the maximum pitch P2 (see JP-B-6-49331 and
station 12 in the transfer direction, the body of the preforms JP-B-8-13501), interference with another member may
1A is caused to come in contact with the heated inner wall 40 occur, or space-saving may not be implemented due to an
surface of N rows of temperature-controlled pot molds 50 so increase in the radius of rotation.
that the preforms 1A are heated to an optimum blow tempera The row pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 may be set
ture. In one embodiment of the invention, the preforms 1A are to P3 before starting the temperature control step in order to
preliminarily blow-molded in the N rows of temperature prevent interference. In this case, the row pitch of the N rows
controlled pot molds 50, and the preliminarily blow-molded 45 oftemperature-controlled pot molds 50 is set to P3. It suffices
preforms (1B) are caused to come in contact with the inner that the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 be set to
wall surface of the N rows of temperature-controlled pot P3 in a state in which the preforms 1B are held by the N rows
molds 50. The body of the preliminarily blow-molded pre of holding plates 30 so that interference with the N rows of
forms 1B is thus increased in diameter (see FIG. 4), and blow molds 60 can be prevented. In FIG. 5, the preliminarily
heated to an optimum blow temperature. The row pitch of the 50 blow-molded preforms 1B are transferred to the N rows of
N rows of holding plates 30 in the temperature control step is blow molds 60 that are set at the row pitch P2. Note that
set to P1, for example. In this case, the row pitch of the N rows another configuration may also be employed (see FIGS. 16
of temperature-controlled pot molds 50 is also set to P1. and 17). The blow cavity split mold 62B may be closed in
Alternatively, the row pitch of the N rows of temperature advance to a position at which the blow cavity split mold 62B
controlled pot molds 50 may be set to the intermediate pitch 55 does not interfere with the preliminarily blow-molded pre
P3 (P1<P3<P2), and the row pitch of the N rows of holding form 1B. This makes it possible to have enough time for the
plates 30 may also be set to the intermediate pitch P3 in the blow molding operation within one cycle.
temperature control step. Note that the N rows of tempera The N rows of blow molds 60 are closed after the transfer
ture-controlled pot molds 50 can be moved upward and down operation shown in FIG. 5, and the row pitch of the N rows of
ward, and are set at the upward position in the temperature 60 blow molds 60 is set to P1 (see FIG. 6). The row pitch of the
control step. The temperature-controlled pot mold 50 used to N rows of holding plates 30 is also set to P1. In this case, the
preliminarily blow-mold the preform includes a pair of tem row pitch of the N rows of holding plates 30 may be changed
perature-controlled pot split molds 52A and 52B that can be in synchronization with the closing motion of the N rows of
opened and closed. A temperature-controlled core may be blow molds 60. The blow molding step is implemented by
used in the temperature control step. Note that the preform 65 introducing high-pressure air into the preliminarily blow
need not necessarily be preliminarily blow-molded, as molded preforms 1B from a blow core mold while moving a
described later. stretching rod in the vertical direction.
 US 8,371,840 B2
13 14
The N rows of blow molds 60 are opened after the blow driver section 108, a blow pressure-receiving plate driver
molding operation, and the row pitch of the N rows of blow section 110, and the like are also provided in the blow mold
molds 60 is set to P2 (see FIG. 7). The row pitch of the N rows ing station 16.
of holding plates 30 is also set to P2, and the containers C are The following description focuses on the temperature con
removed from the blow cavity split molds 62A and 62B of the 5 trol station 14, the blow molding station 16, and the ejection
N rows of blow molds 60. The row pitch of the N rows of station 18 in which the row pitch is changed.
holding plates 30 may be changed in Synchronization with the 2.2. Temperature Control Station and Row Pitch Change
Link Mechanism
opening motion of the N rows of blow molds 60.
The transfer plate 20A is then moved upward, and rotated FIG. 10 shows the temperature control station 14 in a state
to transfer the N rows of containers C1 (row pitch: P2).
10 in which the temperature-controlled pot molds 50 shown in
In the ejection station 18, the row pitch of the N rows of FIG.3 are not provided. A pot stage 122 that is moved upward
holding plates 30 is set to P1 (see FIG. 8). Each of the N rows and downward by a pot driver section 120 secured on the
of holding plates 30 includes a pair of split plates 30A and lower base 72 is disposed in the temperature control station
14. The temperature-controlled pot molds 50 shown in FIG.3
30B, and the neck mold 42 includes a pair of neck split molds 15 can be moved upward and downward by the pot driversection
42A and 42B that are respectively secured on the split plates 120.
30A and 30B. The container 1C can be ejected by opening the FIG.11 is a bottom view showing the transfer plates 20A to
pair of neck split molds 42A and 42B by a known method (see 20C. FIG. 11 shows a state in which the neck mold is not
FIG. 8). The opening/closing stroke of the N rows of holding secured on the holding plate 30. AP1-P3 pitch change section
plates 30 can be provided even when the row pitch of the N 140 (i.e., row pitch change section 130) that changes the row
rows of holding plates 30 is small (P1) by sequentially open pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 provided on the
ing the N rows of holding plates 30 (see FIG. 8). transfer plate 20B that has stopped at the temperature control
2. Blow Molding Apparatus station 14 from P1 to P3 is provided on the upper base 74. The
2.1. Outline of Injection Molding Station and Blow Mold P1-P3 pitch change section 140 may be disposed on each end
ing Station 25 of the holding plate 30 in the longitudinal direction.
FIG.9 is a front view showing the blow molding apparatus As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the P1-P3 pitch change
in which the molds are not installed. A lower base 72 is section includes a Swing arm 144 that Swings around a Swing
secured on a stage 70, and an upper base 74 is secured above shaft 142 supported by the upper base 74, and an arm driver
the lower base 72. FIG.9 shows the injection molding station section 146 that swings the Swing arm 144. The arm driver
12 and the blow molding station 16. In the injection molding 30 section 146 includes a cylinder 146A that is secured on the
station 12 and the blow molding station 16 shown in FIG.9, upper base 74, and a rod 14.6B that is connected to one end of
the transfer plates 20A and 20G have been moved downward the swing arm 144 using a pin or the like. When the rod 146B
to the height H2 or H3 (see FIGS. 2 and 5 to 7). In the injection is extended by the cylinder 146A, the other end (that is pro
molding station 12, the injection cavity molds 40 (see FIG.2) vided with a roller 144A, for example) of the swing arm 144
35 is moved upward.
are disposed on the lower base 72. In the blow molding station The two rows of holding plates 30 provided on the transfer
16, the blow molds 60 (see FIGS. 5 to 7) are disposed on the plate (20A to 20D) are provided with a row pitch change link
lower base 72. The following description is given taking an mechanism 150 that displaces due to the driving force applied
example in which the transfer plate 20A is positioned in the by the P1-P3 pitch change section 140 (i.e., row pitch change
injection molding station 12, the transfer plate 20B is posi 40 section 130), and changes the row pitch, the row pitch change
tioned in the temperature control station 14, the transfer plate link mechanism 150 being provided on each end of the two
20C is positioned in the blow molding station 16, and the rows of holding plates 30 in the longitudinal direction. The
transfer plate 20D is positioned in the ejection station 18. row pitch change link mechanism 150 includes a pair of first
A plurality of driving rods 82 that are used to move the arms 150A, one end of the pair of first arms 150A being
transfer plate 20A upward and downward are provided in the 45 rotatably supported by the two rows of holding plates 30, and
injection molding station 12, the plurality of driving rods 82 a link arm 150B that rotatably links the other end of the pair
extending downward from a receiving member 80 that holds of first arms 150A either eccentrically or coaxially. The row
the transfer plate 20A so that the transfer plate 20A can be pitch change link mechanism 150 also includes a guide rod
rotated and moved upward and downward. The lower ends of 152 that is moved (guided) when changing the row pitch, one
the plurality of driving rods 82 are connected via a connection 50 end of the guide rod 152 being secured on the link arm 150B,
member 84. The transfer plate 20A is moved upward and and the other end of the guide rod 152 being supported by the
downward by a transfer plate driversection 86 that includes a transfer plate 20B. The guide rod 152 includes engagement
cylinder 86A that is secured on the lower base 72, and a rod sections 152A, 152B, and 152C that are spaced along the
86B that is secured on the connection member 84. Vertical (moving) direction (the engagement section 152C is
A plurality of driving rods 92 that are used to move the 55 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, and the engagement sections 152A
transfer plate 200 upward and downward are provided in the and 152B are shown in FIG. 14). As shown in FIG. 14, the
blow molding station 16, the plurality of driving rods 92 engagement sections 152A, 152B, and 152C are annular
extending upward from a receiving member 90 that holds the grooves formed in the surface of the guide rod 152.
transfer plate 20O so that the transfer plate 20O can be rotated When the P1-P3 pitch change section 140 swings the
and moved upward and downward. A transfer plate driver 60 swing arm 144 from the state shown in FIG.12 (row pitch: P1)
section (not shown in FIG. 9) that moves the plurality of to the state shown in FIG. 13 (row pitch: P3), the roller 144A
driving rods 92 upward and downward via a connection mem provided on the end of the Swing arm 144 causes the link arm
ber is provided on the upper base 74. 150B of the row pitch change link mechanism 150 to move
A vertical mold-closing device 100, an injection core-re upward. The angle formed by the pair of first arms 150A can
moving section 102, and the like are also provided in the 65 thus be increased (see FIG. 13), so that the row pitch of the
injection molding station 12. A stretching rod driversection two rows of holding plates 30 can be increased. Since the pair
104, a blow core driver section 106, a raised-bottom mold of first arms 150A move line-symmetrically with respect to
 US 8,371,840 B2
15 16
the guide rod 152 (centerline), the two rows of holding plates 62B are provided, the mold closing/opening device 200 can
30 also move line-symmetrically with respect to the center be formed without using a tie rod (bar).
line that perpendicularly intersects the row direction. Therefore, the blow mold 60 and the like can be removed
The transfer plate 20B may include a row pitch-keeping and installed in the horizontal direction through the side of the
member 160 that keeps the row pitch of the N rows of holding blow molding apparatus when removing or maintaining the
plates to P1, P2, or P3. As shown in FIG. 14, the row pitch blow mold 60 and the like. When a horizontal tie rod is
keeping member 160 includes a guide tubular body 162 that provided as shown in FIG. 10 of JP-B-8-13501, it takes time
includes a fitting section 162A that is fitted into a hole formed to remove and install the blow mold 60 and the like due to the
in the transfer plate 20B. A through-hole 162B into which the 10
horizontal tie rod.
guide rod 152 is inserted (in which the guide rod 152 is The mold closing/opening sections 202 are hydraulically
guided) is formed in the guide tubular body 162. As shown in controlled in synchronization, but may not move the blow
FIG. 15, the through-hole 162B communicates with a plural cavity split molds 62B in mechanical synchronization. In
ity of (e.g., four) radial holes 162C. An engagement section order to deal with this problem, the mold closing/opening
165 that elastically engages one of the engagement sections 15 device 200 is provided with a split mold synchronization
152A, 152B, and 152C is supported within each radial hole member 210 that moves the blow cavity split molds 62B in
162C. The engagement section 165 includes a plunger 164 synchronization. The split mold synchronization member
that is fitted into one of the engagement sections 152A, 152B, 210 includes racks 212 and 214 that are respectively con
and 152C, a pair of split rings 166A and 166B that prevent nected to the blow cavity split molds 62B, and a pinion gear
removal of the plunger 164, and an elastic member (e.g., 216 that includes a gear 216A that engages the racks 212 and
O-ring 168) that is provided along the pair of split rings 166A 214. This makes it possible to move the blow cavity split
and 166B. The plunger 164 may include a spherical body and molds 62B in synchronization.
a shaft. Alternatively, a spherical body may be used instead of In the blow molding station 16, the row pitch change sec
the plunger 164, and a biasing member (e.g., coil spring) tion 130 includes a P1-P2 pitch change section 220 that
disposed in the radial hole 162C may be used instead of the 25 increases the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30
O-ring 168. The spherical body and the biasing member that that hold the preliminarily blow-molded preforms 1B from P1
are held within the radial hole 162C may be retained using a to P2 in synchronization with the opening motion of the two
bolt, a plunger, or the like. rows of blow molds 60. The P1-P2 pitch change section 220
When the row pitch is P1 (see FIG. 12), the engagement engages the split mold synchronization member 210 that is
section 165 elastically engages the engagement section 152A 30 displaced corresponding to the synchronization movement of
(see FIG. 14). Since the height of the guide rod 152 is fixed at the blow cavity split molds 62B, and changes the row pitch of
this position, the row pitch of the holding plates 30 is kept at the two rows of holding plates 30 from P1 to P2 in synchro
P1 by the row pitch change link mechanism 150. When the nization with the opening motion of the blow cavity split
guide rod 152 has been displaced as shown in FIG.13 after the molds 62B.
temperature control step, the engagement section 165 elasti 35 The P1-P2 pitch change section 220 includes a gear 216B
cally engages the engagement section 152B (i.e., the row that is provided coaxially with the gear 216A of the pinion
pitch is changed to P2). gear 216, and a rack 218 that engages the gear 216 and is
2.3. Blow Molding Station moved upward and downward. A driving rod 218A that
The blow molding station 16 is described below with ref moves the guide rod 152 upward via the link arm 150B of the
erence to FIGS. 16 to 20. FIG. 16 shows a State in which the 40 row pitch change link mechanism 150 provided to the two
two rows of holding plates 30 that are set to the row pitch P3 rows of holding plates 30 is secured on the rack 218.
have been transferred to the blow molding station 16 together The row pitch change section 130 also includes a P3-P1
with the transfer plate 200. FIG. 17 shows a state in which the pitch change section 230 that reduces the row pitch of the two
transfer plate has been moved downward to the height H3 rows of holding plates 30 that hold the preliminarily blow
from the height H1 (see FIG. 16), and the preliminary blow 45 molded preforms 1B from P3 to P1 in synchronization with
molded preforms 1B held by the two rows of holding plates 30 the closing motion of the two rows of blow molds 60. The
that are set to the row pitch P3 have been transferred to the two P3-P1 pitch change section 230 includes two pressing sec
rows of blow molds 60 that are set to an open state. In FIGS. tions 232 that protrude toward each other above the mold
16 and 17, the two rows of blow molds 60 have been closed so closing plates 208. The pressing sections 232 press the two
that the row pitch is larger than P3 to some extent instead of P2 50 rows of holding plates 30 or an accessory thereof when the
(see FIG. 5). This makes it possible to reduce the mold closing mold closing plates 208 move in the mold closing direction,
time as compared with the case of closing the blow mold 60 and the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 is set to
from the row pitch P2 after the preliminary blow-molded P1 upon completion of the mold closing motion.
preform 1B has been transferred to the blow mold 60. The blow molding station 16 that includes the mold clos
The blow molding step is then performed by closing the 55 ing/opening device 200, the split mold synchronization mem
two rows of blow molds 60 (see FIG. 18). A mold closing/ ber 210, the P1-P2 pitch change section 220, and the P3-P1
opening device 200 that closes/opens the two rows of blow pitch change section 230 can implement the mold closing
molds 60 is described below. motion shown in FIG. 18 and the mold opening motion shown
The mold closing/opening device 200 includes two mold in FIG. 19. When implementing the mold closing motion
closing/opening sections 202 that close/open the blow cavity 60 shown in FIG. 18, the two rows of blow molds 60 are closed
split molds 62B of the two rows of blow molds 60 that are at the row pitch P1, and the row pitch of the two rows of
positioned on the outer side in the row direction. The mold holding plates 30 is also set to P1 by the P3-P1 pitch change
closing/opening section 202 includes a hydraulic cylinder section 230 and the row pitch change link mechanism 150.
204 and a rod 206, for example. Each rod 206 is connected to When implementing the mold opening motion shown in FIG.
a mold closing plate 208 on which the blow cavity split mold 65 19, the two rows of blow molds 60 are opened at the row pitch
62B is secured. Since the two mold closing/opening sections P2, and the link arm 150B and the guide rod 152 are moved
202 that respectively drive the two blow cavity split molds upward by the P1-P2 pitch change section 220 and the row
 US 8,371,840 B2
17 18
pitch change link mechanism 150 via the driving rod 218A so 24 is configured in the same manner as described above,
that the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 is also except that the three rows of holding plates 30 and the three
Set to P2. rows of blow molds 64 are provided. The blow molding
FIG. 20 shows a state in which the transfer plate 20O has apparatus may be applied to the two-row transfer operation or
been returned to the height H1, and the containers C have the three-row transfer operation. The blow molding station 16
been removed from the two rows of blow molds 60. The row of the blow molding apparatus shown in FIGS. 23 and 24
pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 is maintained at P2. includes the mold closing/opening device 200, the split mold
The transfer plate 200 is then intermittently transferred to the synchronization member 210, the P1-P2 pitch change sec
ejection station 18. tion 220, and the P3-P1 pitch change section 230. Note that
2.4. Ejection Station 10 the P1-P2 pitch change section 220 is omitted in FIGS. 23
The row pitch change section 130 includes a P2-P1 pitch and 24.
change section 240 that changes the row pitch of the two rows The center blow mold 64 among the three rows of blow
of holding plates 30 from P2 to P1 before the containers 1C molds 64 includes a pair of blow cavity split molds 64A1 and
are ejected from the two rows of holding plates 30 in the 64A2. The left blow mold 64 among the three rows of blow
ejection station 18 shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The P2-P1 15 molds 64 includes a pair of blow cavity split molds 64B1 and
pitch change section 240 is disposed on each end of the 64B2. The right blow mold 64 among the three rows of blow
holding plate 30 in the longitudinal direction. The P2-P1 molds 64 includes a pair of blow cavity split molds 64C1 and
pitch change section 240 includes a cylinder 242 that is 64C2. The blow cavity split molds 64A1 and 64B1 are
secured on the upper base 74, and a rod 244 that is inserted secured on the back side, and move integrally, and the blow
and removed by the cylinder 242. The rod 244 that has been cavity split molds 64A2 and 64C1 are secured on the back
driven presses the guide rod 152 of the row pitch change link side, and move integrally. Each of the blow cavity split molds
mechanism 150, so that the row pitch of the two rows of 64B2 and 64C2 positioned on the outer side in the row direc
holding plates 30 is changed from P2 to P1. FIGS. 21 and 22 tion is secured on the mold closing plate 208.
show a state after the row pitch of the two rows of holding As shown in FIG. 23, the row pitch of the three rows of
plates 30 has been changed to P1. 25 blow molds 64 is P1 when the three rows of blow molds 64 are
The ejection station 18 further includes an ejection section closed. When the mold closing plates 208 have been driven by
250 that ejects the containers 1C from the two rows of holding the mold closing/opening sections 202, the blow molds 64
plates 30. Each of the two rows of holding plates 30 includes positioned on the outer side are closed. The blow cavity split
a pair of split plates, and each of the neck molds 42 includes mold 64B2 positioned on the outer side in the row direction
a pair of neck split molds secured on the pair of split plates. 30 presses the blow cavity split molds 64A1 and 64B1 that move
The containers 1C are ejected by increasing the interval integrally, and the blow cavity split mold 64C2 positioned on
between the pair of split plates (see FIG.3 of JP-B-8-13501, the outer side in the row direction presses the blow cavity split
for example). molds 64A2 and 64C1 that move integrally. The adjacent
The ejection section 250 that is provided corresponding to blow cavity split molds eventually close contact with each
each row includes a cylinder 252 that is secured on the upper 35 other (i.e., the three rows of blow molds 64 are closed). In this
base 74, a rod 254 that is inserted and removed by the cylinder case, the pressing sections 252 secured on the mold closing
252, and a wedge-like member 256 that is secured on the plates 208 press the holding plates 30 positioned on the outer
lower end of the rod 254. The ejection station 18 ejects the side in the row direction, and the row pitch of the three rows
containers 1C sequentially from the two rows of holding of holding plates 30 is set to P1.
plates 30 that are disposed at the row pitch P1. FIG.22 shows 40 Note that the preform 1A need not necessarily be prelimi
a state in which the containers 1C have been ejected from the narily blow-molded in the temperature control station 14. In
holding plates 30 in the right row. As shown in FIG. 21, the FIG. 23, the preform 1A that has not been preliminarily
interval between the two rows of holding plates 30 that are blow-molded is blow-molded into a container. Note that the
disposed at the row pitch P1 is narrow. If the containers 1C are preform 1A may be preliminarily blow-molded in the tem
simultaneously ejected from the two rows of holding plates 45 perature control station 14. The preforms 1A (1B) are dis
30 that are disposed at the row pitch P1, the holding plates 30 posed at the pitch P3, and transferred to the blow molding
interfere with each other. Such interference can be prevented station 16 regardless of whether or not the preforms have been
by increasing the pitch of the holding plates during ejection. preliminarily blow-molded. The reason therefor is described
However, since the Subsequent step is the injection molding later with reference to FIG. 24.
step (row pitch: P1), it is advantageous to eject the containers 50 When the blow molding operation has completed, the mold
1C in a state in which the two rows of holding plates 30 are closing/opening sections 202 drive the mold closing plates
disposed at the row pitch P1 in order to omit an unnecessary 208 to open the three rows of blow molds 64. In this case, the
change in row pitch and implement space-saving. The row row pitch of the three rows of holding plate 30 is changed
pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 can be maintained from P1 to P2 due to the operation of the split mold synchro
at P1 during ejection by ejecting the containers 1C sequen 55 nization member 210 and the P1-P2 pitch change section
tially from the two rows of holding plates 30. 220. When the number of rows of blow molds is an odd
3. Blow Molding Apparatus that Differs in the Number of number (e.g., N=3), the split mold synchronization member
Rows of Holding Plates 210 may synchronize the pair of blow cavity split molds of the
FIGS. 23 and 24 show the blow molding station 16 of a blow mold that is positioned at the center while synchronizing
blow molding apparatus that includes three rows of holding 60 the blow cavity split molds that are positioned on the outer
plates 30 and three rows of blow molds 64 (i.e., N=3). FIG.23 side in the row directions. The split mold synchronization
shows a state in which the blow molds 64 are closed at the row member 210 may also synchronize a pair of blow molds
pitch P1, and FIG. 24 shows a state in which the blow molds among the N rows of blow molds that move symmetrically.
64 are opened at the row pitch P2. In FIGS. 23 and 24, The blow cavity split molds 64B2 and 64C2 positioned on
members having the same functions as those described above 65 the outer side in the row direction are opened by driving the
are indicated by identical reference symbols (numerals). Spe mold closing plates 208. The blow molding apparatus shown
cifically, the blow molding apparatus shown in FIGS. 23 and in FIGS. 23 and 24 includes a mold opening synchronization
 US 8,371,840 B2
19 20
member 69. The mold opening synchronization member 69 with this problem, the first through-holes 32 are formed in the
includes a shaft 66 that is secured on the mold closing plate two rows of holding plates 30 in the intermediate area in the
208. A flange section 66A is formed on the end of the shaft 66. longitudinal direction A. The reinforcement shaft 320 is
The mold opening synchronization member 69 includes a inserted into each first through-hole 32, and each end of the
stopper section 68 that engages the flange section 66A at a reinforcement shaft 320 is secured on the first securing sec
position corresponding to the blow cavity split molds 64A1 tion 330. The reinforcement shaft 320 thus suppresses flexure
and 64B1 that move integrally, or the blow cavity split molds of the two rows of holding plates 30. Therefore, the preforms
64A2 and 64C1 that move integrally. As shown in FIG. 24, 1A (containers 1C) can be molded at a uniform height using
when the row pitch of the three rows of blow molds 64 is P2 the neck molds 42 held by the two rows of holding plates 30
(open state), the stopper section 68 engages the flange section 10 independently of the position of each holding plate 30 in the
66A, and moves the blow cavity split molds 64A1 and 64B1 longitudinal direction A, so that uniform molding quality can
or the blow cavity split molds 64A2 and 64C1 to the open be achieved.
position. The flange section 66A does not interfere with the As shown in FIG. 25, the transfer plate (20A to 20D) may
stopper section 68 when the three rows of blow molds 64 are further include a second securing section 340 that secures the
closed. 15 intermediate part of the reinforcement shaft 320 at a position
The row pitch of the three rows of blow molds 64 may be between the two rows of holding plates 30. Since flexure of
set to P2 when transferring the preform 1A (1B) in the open the reinforcement shaft 320 is suppressed by the second
state shown in FIG. 24. Note that the row pitch of the three securing section 340, flexure of the two rows of holding plates
rows of blow molds 64 may be set to P3 (P1<P3<P2) in the 30 can be further suppressed.
same manner as described above since the diameter of the When the row pitch change force is applied to the guide
body of the preform 1A (1B) is smaller than that of the member 310 from the row pitch change link mechanism 150,
container 1C (i.e., the preform 1A (1B) does not interfere with the guide member 310 moves along the rail member 300, so
the three rows of blow molds 64 that have been opened). that the row pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 is
Specifically, the feature that sets the row pitch of the N rows changed. The resulting row pitch is maintained by the guide
of preforms transferred to the blow molds to P3 is suitable for 25 rod 152 and the row pitch-keeping member 160 (see FIG. 14).
a blow molding apparatus that can deal with a transfer opera Each end (A1 and A2) of the two rows of holding plates 30 in
tion that differs in the number of rows (e.g., two-row transfer the longitudinal direction A (see FIG. 25) is positioned
operation or three-row transfer operation) in addition to the between the transfer plate (20A to 20D) and the guide mem
case of transferring preliminarily blow-molded preforms. ber 310.
The versatility of the blow molding apparatus can be 30 As shown in FIG.25, each of the two rows of holding plates
improved by appropriately changing the number of rows 30 includes the pair of split plates 30A and 30B, and the neck
(N=2 or N=3). mold 42 includes the pair of neck split molds 42A and 42B
4. Holding Plate Flexure Prevention Mechanism that are respectively secured on the split plates 30A and 30B.
FIG. 25 shows two (i.e., N) rows of holding plates 30 that Therefore, the containers 1C can be ejected from the neck
are secured on the transfer plates 20A to 20D. FIG. 26 is a 35 molds 42 by increasing the interval between the pair of split
cross-sectional view showing a rail member 300 and a guide plates 30A and 30B in the ejection station 18.
member 310 that are disposed on each end (A1 and A2) of the The split plate 30A of each of the two rows of holding
two rows of holding plates 30 shown in FIG. 25 in the longi plates 30 has a first depression 34 at a position opposite to the
tudinal direction A. Note that the flexure prevention mecha second securing section 340. When the containers 1C are
nism for the two rows of holding plates 30 shown in FIGS. 25 40 ejected by increasing the interval between the pair of split
and 26 may be applied to the above embodiments, and may plates 30A and 30B, the split plates 30A of the two rows of
also be applied to a case where the injection molding pitch holding plates 30 almost come in contact with each other (see
and the blow molding pitch are changed (see JP-B-6-49331, FIG. 8). In this case, since at least part of the second securing
for example). section 340 is disposed within the first depression34 shown in
The transfer plate (20A to 20D) shown in FIG.25 includes 45 FIG. 25, a situation in which the second securing section 340
the rail member 300 shown in FIG. 26 on each end (A1 and interferes with the split plate 30A can be prevented.
A2) of the two rows of holding plates 30 in the longitudinal As shown in FIG. 25, a centering second depression 36 in
direction A. The rail member 300 may include a rail 302. the shape of a semicircle or the like may be formed on each
The transfer plate (20A to 20D) shown in FIG.25 includes end (A1 and A2) of the pair of split plates 30A and 30B in the
at least one (e.g., two) reinforcement shaft 320 that is pro 50 longitudinal direction A. As shown in FIG. 26, a centeringpin
vided along the row direction B of the two rows of holding 318 is inserted into the second depression 36 formed in the
plates 30, and two first securing sections 330 that secure pair of split plates 30A and 30B via a hole 21 formed in the
either end of the reinforcement shaft 320. transfer plate (20A to 20D), and is secured on the guide
The guide member 310 is provided on each end (A1 and member 310 using a bolt 314. The centering pin 318 is thus
A2) of the two rows of holding plates 30 in the longitudinal 55 received by the second depression 36 formed in the pair of
direction A, the guide member 310 being guided along the rail split plates 30A and 30B. Therefore, the center position of the
member 300, and supporting the holding plate 30 so that the pair of split plates 30A and 30B can be set using the centering
row pitch of the two rows of holding plates 30 can be changed pin 318 that moves together with the guide member 310 that
(see FIG. 26). As shown in FIG. 26, the guide member 310 changes the row pitch.
may have a rail groove 312 that engages the rail 302 of the rail 60 As shown in FIG.25, each of the two rows of holding plates
member 300. Each of the two rows of holding plates 30 has 30 may include two second through-holes 38 that are formed
two first through-holes 32 that receive the reinforcement shaft in the row direction B at a plurality of positions in the longi
32O. tudinal direction A, two guide shafts 39A that are respectively
If the two rows of holding plates 30 are supported on only inserted into the second through-holes 38, and two compres
the ends A1 and A2 in the longitudinal direction A (see FIG. 65 sion coil springs 39B (i.e., biasing members) that are respec
25), the two rows of holding plates 30 may flex in the inter tively inserted into the guide shafts 39A, and biases the pair of
mediate area in the longitudinal direction A. In order to deal split plates 30A and 30B in the closing direction. The rein
 US 8,371,840 B2
21 22
forcement shafts 320 may be disposed between the guide a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of
shafts 39A in the longitudinal direction A. holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting
In this case, the two rows of holding plates 30 are supported the N rows of holding plates so that a row pitch of the N
by the guide members 310 on each end (A1 and A2) (see FIG. rows of holding plates can be changed;
25) in the longitudinal direction A (see FIG. 26), supported by 5 an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural
the guide shafts 39A in the inward position, and supported by ity of preforms, the injection molding station including
the reinforcement shafts 320 in a further inward position. This N rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the
makes it possible to suppress flexure of the two rows of plurality of neck molds that are held by each of the N
holding plates 30 over the entire area in the longitudinal rows of holding plates;
direction A. It is preferable to provide the guide shafts 39A 10
a temperature control station that includes N rows oftem
that support the biasing members 39B at remote positions in perature-controlled pot molds that are disposed on a
the longitudinal direction. A since a biasing force that biases downstream side of the injection molding station in the
the pair of split plates 30A and 30B in the closing direction transfer direction, and performs a temperature control
can be applied over the entire area in the longitudinal direc operation by disposing the plurality of preforms held by
tion A. 15
The two rows of holding plates 30 may flex due to flexure the N rows of holding plates in the N rows of tempera
of the transfer plate (20A to 20D) that supports the two rows ture-controlled pot molds;
of holding plates 30. For example, the neck molds 42 are a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds
closed in the blow molding station 16 after the transfer plate that are disposed on a downstream side of the tempera
(20A to 20D) has been moved downward. If the transfer plate ture control station in the transfer direction, and blow
(20A to 20D) that has been moved downward flexes in the molds the plurality of preforms held by the N rows of
blow molding station 16, the two rows of holding plates 30 holding plates into a plurality of containers; and
also flex, so that the quality of the container 1C may deterio a row pitch change section that changes the row pitch of the
rate. N rows of holding plates so that P1<P3<P2 is satisfied,
The blow molding station 16 may include a plurality of 25 P1 being the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates
(e.g., two) stoppers (not shown) that come in contact with the when they hold the plurality of preforms that have been
transfer plate (20A to 20D) that has been moved downward to injection-molded, P2 being the row pitch of the N rows
specify the lower limit position of the transfer plate (20A to of holding plates when they hold the plurality of con
20D) at a position (C1 and C2) (see FIG.25) between the two tainers that have been blow-molded, and P3 being the
rows of holding plates 30. This makes it possible to suppress 30 row pitch of the N rows of holding plates when the N
flexure of the transfer plate (20A to 20D) and the two rows of rows of holding plates hold the plurality of preforms that
holding plates 30. are transferred to the N rows of blow molds that are
Although only some embodiments of the invention have opened.
been described in detail above, those skilled in the art would 2. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1, fur
readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the 35 ther comprising:
embodiments without materially departing from the novel an ejection station that is disposed on a downstream side of
teachings and advantages of the invention. Accordingly, Such the blow molding station in the transfer direction, and
modifications are intended to be included within the scope of ejects the plurality of containers from the N rows of
the invention. Any term cited with a different term having a holding plates,
broader meaning or the same meaning at least once in the 40 the row pitch change section including a P2-P1 pitch
specification and the drawings can be replaced by the differ change section, the P2-P1 pitch change section being
ent term in any place in the specification and the drawings. provided in the ejection station, and changing the row
The invention may be applied to a horizontal transfer blow pitch of the N rows of holding plates from P2 to P1
molding apparatus instead of a rotary transfer blow molding before the ejection station ejects the plurality of contain
apparatus. The above embodiments have been described tak 45 ers from the N rows of holding plates.
ing an example in which N is 2 or 3. When Nisan odd number, 3. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 2,
N rows of blow molds may be configured in the same manner wherein
as in the case where N is 3. When N is an even number, two each of the N rows of holding plates includes a pair of split
rows of blow molds may be provided in parallel. Alterna plates, each of the plurality of neck molds including a
tively, one blow mold may be provided on one side of a center 50 pair of neck split molds that are secured on the pair of
blow mold that is opened line-symmetrically when N is an split plates, the plurality of containers being ejected by
odd number, and an even number of blow molds may be increasing an interval between the pair of split plates,
disposed on the other side of the center blow mold. and
Although only some embodiments of the invention have the ejection station ejects the plurality of containers
been described in detail above, those skilled in the art would 55 sequentially from the N rows of holding plates that are
readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the disposed at the row pitch P1.
embodiments without materially departing from the novel 4. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1,
teachings and advantages of the invention. Accordingly, Such wherein
modifications are intended to be included within the scope of each of the N rows of blow molds includes a pair of blow
the invention. 60 cavity split molds,
a row pitch of the N rows of blow molds being P1 when the
What is claimed is: N rows of blow molds are closed,
1. A blow molding apparatus comprising: the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates being set to P1
N rows of holding plates, N being an integer equal to or when the N rows of blow molds are closed,
larger than 2, each of the N rows of holding plates 65 the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row among
holding a plurality of neck molds, to be transferred along the N rows being disposed at unsymmetrical positions
a transfer direction; with respect to a blow molding centerline when the N
 US 8,371,840 B2
23 24
rows of blow molds are closed, and the row pitch of the the row pitch change section includes a P1-P2 pitch
N rows of blow molds being P2 when the N rows of blow change section, the P1-P2 pitch change section being
molds are opened, provided in the blow molding station, and increases the
the plurality of preforms being transferred to a space row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the
between the pair of blow cavity split molds of each of the 5 plurality of containers from P1 to P2 in synchronization
N rows of blow molds in a state in which the row pitch of with an opening motion of the N rows of blow molds.
the N rows of blow molds is set to be larger than P3, and 10. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1,
the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates is set to P3, wherein
the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates being set to P2 10 the row pitch change section includes a P1-P3 pitch
when the row pitch of the N rows of blow molds is set to change section, the P1-P3 pitch change section being
P2, and the plurality of containers being transferred from provided in the temperature control station, and
the space between the pair of blow cavity split molds of increases the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates
each of the N rows of blow molds.
that hold the plurality of preforms from P1 to P3.
11. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1,
5. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 4, 15 wherein
wherein the Support-transfer member includes a row pitch-keeping
N is 2, two blow cavity split molds among the pairs of blow member that keeps the row pitch of the N rows of hold
cavity split molds of the two rows of blow molds that are ing plates to P1, P2, or P3,
adjacent to each other in a row direction are secured on the N rows of holding plates including a row pitch change
a back side, and two blow cavity split molds among the link mechanism that changes the row pitch,
pairs of blow cavity split molds of the two rows of blow the row pitch change link mechanism including a guide rod
molds that are disposed on an outer side in the row that is Supported by the Support-transfer member and
direction are driven such that the row pitch of the two moved when changing the row pitch, the guide rod
rows of blow molds is set to P2 when the two rows of including three engagement sections that are spaced
blow molds are opened. 25 along a moving direction, and
6. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 4. the row pitch-keeping member including an engagement
wherein section that elastically engages one of the three engage
N is 3, an outermost blow cavity split mold is secured on a ment sections.
mold closing plate, the outermost blow cavity split mold 12. A blow molding apparatus comprising:
is one of the pair of blow cavity split molds of each of 30 N rows of holding plates, N being an integer equal to or
two outer blow molds among the three rows of blow larger than 2;
molds, and the other of the pair of blow cavity split N rows of blow molds that blow-mold a plurality of pre
molds of each of the two outer blow molds is respec forms held by the N rows of holding plates into a plu
tively secured on the pair of blow cavity split molds of a rality of containers;
center blow mold among the three rows of blow molds 35 a mold closing/opening device that selectively closes and
on a back side, opens the N rows of blow molds; and
the three rows of blow molds closely contacting each other a row pitch change section that changes a row pitch of the
in the row direction, and the row pitch of the three rows N rows of holding plates,
of blow molds being P1 when the three rows of blow each of the N rows of blow molds including a pair of blow
molds are closed, 40 cavity split molds,
the pair of blow cavity split molds of the center blow mold a row pitch of the N rows of blow molds being P1 when the
being driven line-symmetrically with respect to the blow N rows of blow molds are closed,
molding centerline, the pair of blow cavity split molds of the row pitch of the N rows of holding plates being set to P1
each of the two outer blow molds being disposed at when the N rows of blow molds are closed,
unsymmetrical positions with respect to the blow mold 45 the pair of blow cavity split molds in at least one row among
ing centerline, and the row pitch of the three rows of the N rows being disposed at unsymmetrical positions
blow molds being P2 when the three rows of blow molds with respect to a blow molding centerline when the N
are opened. rows of blow molds are closed, the row pitch of the N
7. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1, rows of blow molds being P2 wherein P2>P1 when the N
wherein 50 rows of blow molds are opened,
the temperature control station performs the temperature the mold closing/opening device including two mold clos
control operation by preliminary blow-molding the plu ing and opening sections that selectively close and open
rality of preforms in the N rows of temperature-con two blow cavity split molds of the N rows of blow molds
trolled pot molds so that a body of the plurality of pre that are positioned on an outer side in a row direction,
forms that have been preliminary blow-molded comes in 55 and a split mold synchronization member that engages
contact with a heated inner wall surface of the N rows of and moves the two blow cavity split molds in synchro
temperature-controlled pot molds. nization, and being formed without using a tie rod, and
8. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the row pitch change section engages the split
wherein mold synchronization member that is displaced corre
the row pitch change section includes a P3-P1 pitch 60 sponding to synchronization movement of the two blow
change section, the P3-P1 pitch change section being cavity split molds, and changes the row pitch of the two
provided in the blow molding station, and reduces the rows of holding plates in Synchronization with move
row pitch of the N rows of holding plates that hold the ment of the two blow cavity split molds.
plurality of preforms from P3 to P1 in synchronization 13. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 12,
with a closing motion of the N rows of blow molds. 65 wherein
9. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 1, N is 2, two blow cavity split molds among the pairs of blow
wherein cavity split molds of the two rows of blow molds that are
 US 8,371,840 B2
25 26
adjacent to each other in a row direction are secured on 16. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 15,
a back side, and two blow cavity split molds among the wherein
pairs of blow cavity split molds of the two rows of blow the support-transfer member further includes a second
molds that are disposed on an outer side in the row securing section that secures an intermediate part of the
direction are driven such that the row pitch of the two 5 at least one reinforcement shaft at a position between the
rows of blow molds is set to P2 when the two rows of N rows of holding plates.
blow molds are opened. 17. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 16,
14. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 12, wherein
wherein each of the N rows of holding plates includes a pair of split
N is 3, an outermost blow cavity split mold is secured on a 10 plates,
mold closing plate, the outermost blow cavity split mold each of the plurality of neck molds including a pair of neck
is one of the pair of blow cavity split molds of each of split molds that are secured on the pair of split plates,
two outer blow molds among the three rows of blow the plurality of containers are ejected from the plurality of
molds, the and other of the pair of blow cavity split neck molds by increasing an interval between the pair of
molds of each of the two outer blow molds is respec 15 split plates, and
tively secured on the pair of blow cavity split molds of a one of the pair of split plates of each of the N rows of
center blow mold among the three rows of blow molds holding plates has a depression at a position opposite to
on a back side, the second securing section.
the three rows of blow molds closely contacting each other 18. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 17,
in the row direction, and the row pitch of the three rows wherein
of blow molds being P1 when the three rows of blow each of the N rows of holding plates includes:
molds are closed, two second through-holes that are formed in the row direc
the pair of blow cavity split molds of the center blow mold tion at a plurality of positions in the longitudinal direc
being driven line-symmetrically with respect to the blow tion;
molding centerline, the pair of blow cavity split molds of 25 two guide shafts that are respectively inserted into the two
each of the two outer blow molds being disposed at second through-holes; and
unsymmetrical positions with respect to the blow mold two biasing members that are respectively inserted into the
ing centerline, and the row pitch of the three rows of two guide shafts, and that bias the pair of split plates in
blow molds being P2 when the three rows of blow molds a closing direction, and
are opened. 30 the at least one reinforcement shaft is disposed between the
15. A blow molding apparatus comprising: two guide shafts in the longitudinal direction.
N rows of holding plates, each of the N rows of holding 19. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 15,
plates holding a plurality of neck molds; further comprising:
a support-transfer member that transfers the N rows of a row pitch change section that changes the row pitch of the
holding plates, the Support-transfer member Supporting 35 N rows of holding plates,
the N rows of holding plates such that a row pitch of the the Support-transfer member including a row pitch-keep
N rows of holding plates can be changed; ing member that keeps the row pitch of the N rows of
an injection molding station that injection-molds a plural holding plates to one of a plurality of row pitches,
ity of preforms, the injection molding station including the N rows of holding plates including a row pitch change
N rows of injection cavity molds that are clamped to the 40 link mechanism that changes the row pitch,
plurality of neck molds that are held by each of the N the row pitch change link mechanism including a guide rod
rows of holding plates; and that is Supported by the Support-transfer member and
a blow molding station that includes N rows of blow molds, moved when changing the row pitch,
and blow-molds the plurality of preforms held by the N the guide rod including a plurality of engagement sections
rows of holding plates into a plurality of containers, 45 that are spaced along a moving direction, and
the Support-transfer member including: the row pitch-keeping member including an engagement
two rail members that are disposed on either end of the N section that elastically engages one of the plurality of
rows of holding plates in a longitudinal direction; engagement sections.
at least one reinforcement shaft that is provided along a row 20. The blow molding apparatus as defined in claim 15,
direction of the N rows of holding plates; and 50 wherein
two first securing sections that secure either end of the at the plurality of neck molds are closed after the support
least one reinforcement shaft, transfer member has been moved downward in the blow
each of the N rows of holding plates including two guide molding station, and
members that are guided along the two rail members, the blow molding station includes a plurality of stoppers
and that support the N rows of holding plates so that the 55 that come in contact with the Support-transfer member
row pitch of the N rows of holding plates can be that has been moved downward to specify a lower limit
changed, and position of the Support-transfer member at a position
each of the N rows of holding plates having at least one first between the N rows of holding plates.
through-hole that receives the at least one reinforcement
shaft. k k k k k