Abstract: A brace for reinforcing the connection between a handle and head of a push broom. The brace comprising a flat elongated base member attached in a T-shaped configuration with an elongated tubular member. The base member being shaped to conform to the shape of the top side of the conventional push broom. A bore extending through the length of the tubular member and the base member for receiving a handle of a push broom therethrough. A plurality of apertures being formed through the base member and the tubular member.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling an injection molding system having a plurality of devices which generate a corresponding plurality of feedback signals includes structure and steps for providing an operator control station which has a display and at least one operator input device. A single, general-purpose computer is coupled to both the operator control panel and the plurality of injection molding devices and functions to perform multiple-tasking control of both the injection molding functions and the operator control functions. The computer preferably performs real-time closed loop control of the plurality of injection molding devices while also processing system feedback signals and operator input signals. Thus, there is no need for the analog signal processor and the programmable logic controller of the prior art.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling a hydraulic actuator in an injection molding machine, where the hydraulic actuator moves in a linear or rotary manner to effect movement of an injection molding device, such as a mold clamp. A microcontroller is locally disposed adjacent to the actuator or the hydraulic fluid distribution manifold to cause the actuator to drive the device. The microcontroller is electrically coupled to the system control processor. This distributed control architecture increases system processing throughput, enhances reliability, and permits easier upgrades/repair. Preferably, the microcontroller is mounted on the manifold and controls all of the actuators supplied from that manifold.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling an injection molding system having a plurality of devices which generate a corresponding plurality of feedback signals includes structure and steps for providing an operator control station which has a display and at least one operator input device. A single, general-purpose computer is coupled to both the operator control panel and the plurality of injection molding devices and functions to perform multiple-tasking control of both the injection molding functions and the operator control functions. The computer preferably performs real-time closed loop control of the plurality of injection molding devices while also processing system feedback signals and operator input signals. Thus, there is no need for the analog signal processor and the programmable logic controller of the prior art.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for preventing mold flash. The method broadly comprises the steps of: introducing a fluid under pressure into a mechanism for applying a clamping force such as the clamping cylinder of a piston-cylinder unit; increasing the pressure of the fluid in the clamping force applying mechanism so as to apply a clamping force to the mold; injecting moldable material into the mold; measuring actual pressure in the clamping force applying mechanism; and determining whether the mold is close to blowing open when the moldable material is injected into the mold using the actual measured pressure in the clamping cylinder.