Abstract: A molding/punching station for molding and punching containers out of a foil strip (2) of thermoplastic synthetic material, which station includes a molding table (5) for holding one half of a mold (4); a frame (9) in which the table (5) is mounted for pivotal movement about a fixed axis of rotation (26) transverse to a longitudinal axis (35) of the table (5); and a single guideway (27) that is mounted on the frame (9) and engages the table (5) for guiding the pivotal motion of the table (5), with the guideway (27) for pivoting table (5) being disposed between the plane of the foil strip (2) in the station and the pivoting point (26′) or axis of rotation (26) of the table (5), if necessary with sectional areas of the guideway (27) being opposite the foil strip (2).

Abstract: The method of moving a turntable in an apparatus for molding and punching out containers from a thermoplastic plastic foil by a differential pressure is to be executed such that relatively-small gravitational forces occur as the end positions of the pivoting movement are approached. In this way, the apparatus can be operated with a high stroke number, and not necessitate complicated curved paths. This is attained through the reduction of the distance between the center of gravity of the unit comprising the turntable and the lower tool half and a fixed pivot point in the first half of the pivoting angle during the pivoting of the turntable, with the distance being increased again in the second half of the pivoting angle. This change in position supports the accelerating or braking of the turntable.