Abstract: A release mechanism operating to release molded articles from a third mold portion includes a guide coupled to the second mold portion forming a cam track. A cam follower coupled to the surfaces of the third mold portion, which are holding the molded articles, is engaged in the cam track when the second and third mold portions are within a pre-selected distance of each other. The cam follower interacts with the cam track to cause some initial movement of the surfaces holding the molded articles to a pre-release position for the holding surfaces so that the molded articles are loosely retained by the holding surfaces. A power operator, carried by the third mold portion and coupled to the article holding surfaces, is responsive to a signal to move the article holding surfaces from the pre-release position to a full release position when a molded article receiver is suitably positioned to receive the molded articles. The molded article receiver includes receiver tubes for receiving the molded articles.

Abstract: An adjustable cam track for a mold assembly including a first mold portion, a second mold portion movable with respect to the first mold portion, a third mold portion movably interposed between the first and second portions and having at least one pair of space defining surfaces which together with the first and second mold portions defines in a closed position space for receiving plastic material to form at least one molded article. The adjustable cam track includes a guide coupled to the second mold portion, the guide defining a first portion of the adjustable cam track and a cam insert including a second portion of the adjustable cam track defining a point of release of the molded article from the space defining surfaces, the cam insert being adjustably positionable with respect to the guide to adjust the point of release.