Abstract: System and method for monitoring system parameters from multiple independent controllers that monitor and control an injection process is a plurality of IMSs, including: establishing a common graphical user interface (common GUI) for viewing system parameters of a tool based injection molding system (IMS), the IMS including a plurality of different local controllers that control different tool based system functions of the IMS and one common graphical user interface (local GUI) with GUI routines specific to the local controllers for set up and monitoring of the respective tool based system function of the respective local controllers.

Abstract: A method and system to optimize the parameters of a robot used in an assembly process. The assembly process is categorized based on its nature which may be cylindrical, radial and multi-stage insertion. The search pattern and search parameters are specified. The parameters are optimized and the optimized parameter set are verified and when a predetermined criteria such as assembly cycle time set and/or success rate is met the optimization process stops. When the optimization stops the verified parameters are used to cause the robot to perform the categorized assembly process. If the parameters do not meet the predetermined criteria, another round of optimization using the same or other parameters can be performed.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention includes a controller to process a criterion for selecting a point-of-interest (POI). The criterion can be based on historical trip data. Data related to a POI, including a community-of-interest rating, for example, can be accessed through a satellite and terrestrial mobile communication network. Multiple POIs can be graphically represented for user selection based on the criterion and/or other data. Once a POI is selected, data related to the selected POI, including navigation data, can be displayed. In another embodiment, the controller can access navigation data to a specified destination. The navigation data can be based on historical trip data such as route segments and destination areas. The navigation data can be accessed from an in-vehicle system or from a navigation service provider and can be displayed to assist a user in reaching the specified destination.

Abstract: Each platform mounted mold assembly for plastic tubing includes a circuit board containing parameters defining elements of the forming, molding, tipping or welding operation to be undertaken on the tubing. A control unit includes an RF generator for providing the RF energy to effect the forming, molding, tipping or welding process, a source of air under pressure to operate the mechanical elements attendant each mold assembly, various sensors and a multiplex unit. In operation, the control unit serially addresses each of the mold assemblies, senses the parameters attendant the mold and applies the appropriate power level of RF energy for a specific duration and temperature while activating the mechanical aspects of the mold assembly. The mold assemblies may be serially activated through a multiplex unit or in a particular sequence that may be operator controlled.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for performing operations on at least one input data vector in order to produce at least one output vector to permit easy, scalable and fast programming of a petascale equivalent supercomputer. A PetaFlops Router may comprise one or more PetaFlops Nodes, which may be connected to each other and/or external data provider/consumers via a programmable crossbar switch external to the PetaFlops Node. Each PetaFlops Node has a FPGA and a programmable intra-FPGA crossbar switch that permits input and output variables to be configurably connected to various physical operators contained in the FPGA as desired by a user. This allows a user to specify the instruction set of the system on a per-application basis. Further, the intra-FPGA crossbar switch permits the output of one operation to be delivered as an input to a second operation.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention includes a controller to process a criterion for selecting a point-of-interest (POI). The criterion can be based on historical trip data. Data related to a POI, including a community-of-interest rating, for example, can be accessed through a satellite and terrestrial mobile communication network. Multiple POIs can be graphically represented for user selection based on the criterion and/or other data. Once a POI is selected, data related to the selected POI, including navigation data, can be displayed. In another embodiment, the controller can access navigation data to a specified destination. The navigation data can be based on historical trip data such as route segments and destination areas. The navigation data can be accessed from an in-vehicle system or from a navigation service provider and can be displayed to assist a user in reaching the specified destination.

Abstract: Each platform mounted mold assembly for plastic tubing includes a circuit board containing parameters defining elements of the forming, molding, tipping or welding operation to be undertaken on the tubing. A control unit includes an RF generator for providing the RF energy to effect the forming, molding, tipping or welding process, a source of air under pressure to operate the mechanical elements attendant each mold assembly, various sensors and a multiplex unit. In operation, the control unit serially addresses each of the mold assemblies, senses the parameters attendant the mold and applies the appropriate power level of RF energy for a specific duration and temperature while activating the mechanical aspects of the mold assembly. The mold assemblies may be serially activated through a multiplex unit or in a particular sequence that may be operator controlled.

Abstract: A method for defining a uniform injection molding interface includes selecting at least one common control parameter from multiple injection molding machines, setting at least one standardization page, establishing a uniform injection molding interface by configuring the at least one common control parameter into the at least one standardization page, storing the data related to the uniform injection molding interface into a storage unit, and connecting the uniform injection molding interface to the control device via an input control device to enable the control device to control the multiple injection molding machines in response to the control parameters set via the uniform injection molding interface.

Abstract: A trailer (10) or container (11) includes a frame (12) having a central axis (14) spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage supports (20) are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage support supporting a plurality of objects thereon. A carousel (24) rotates the plurality of storage supports, and a powered drive rotates the carousel. The system includes a storage location signal, a vehicle location signal, and a door closed signal which are each input to a controller (90) for controlling rotation of the carousel, so that goods to be unloaded are on a support which is rotated to an unloading position.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing geographic data to end users' mobile units from a remotely located navigation services provider so that navigation functions can be provided locally on the mobile units. The navigation services provider determines one or more map tile exit points along the route and sends the tile exit points and a set of map tiles to the mobile unit. The mobile unit calculates a route from its current position to the farthest map tile exit point for which map tile data has been received from the navigations services provider.

Abstract: A customer transmits their 3D CAD file for a part to be total profile machined. Computer analysis of the transmitted CAD file produces CNC machining instructions, which are transmitted back to an address defined by the customer. The customer can then use the transmitted CNC machining instructions to total profile machine their own part using their own CNC mill at the location where the part is likely needed. The transmitted instructions include not only the tool paths for CNC machining of the total profile of the part, but also for additional features formed into the encircling portion of a material block from which the part is to be total profile machined. For instance, the CNC machining instructions transmitted back to the customer can define a registration recess and/or channels or undercuts for fluid support material on an A-side of a material block. After the A-side of the block is machined, the customer adds and solidifies fluid support material into the machined recess.

Abstract: A support apparatus of an injection-molding machine has a neural network that receives test molding data corresponding to molding conditions and a quality value obtained by measuring a non-defective molded article, and that determines a quality prediction function based on the received test molding data. A computer calculates a predicted value of the quality value using the quality prediction function. An input apparatus inputs into the neural network fixed values for the molding conditions except for a selected at least one of the molding conditions, and inputs a target value of the quality value. A graph generator generates a graphical relationship between the selected at least one molding condition and the predicted value. A graph correction unit corrects the graphical relationship generated by the graph generator on the basis of the target value.

Abstract: A method for defining a uniform injection molding interface includes selecting at least one common control parameter from multiple injection molding machines, setting at least one standardization page, establishing a uniform injection molding interface by configuring the at least one common control parameter into the at least one standardization page, storing the data related to the uniform injection molding interface into a storage unit, and connecting the uniform injection molding interface to the control device via an input control device to enable the control device to control the multiple injection molding machines in response to the control parameters set via the uniform injection molding interface.

Abstract: In a method for sequentially programming an injection molding cycle of an injection molding machine comprising one or several injection molds, the injection molding cycle is started manually step by step. The parts of the injection molding machine and/or the parts of the injection mold(s) are manually displaced into the positions or states required for the injection molding cycle in the order required for the injection molding cycle. The movement sequence (the actions and the obtained states) of the machine parts and/or the mold parts is stored in a controller.

Abstract: System comprising mold-moving assembly cooperative with molding station and insert-integration station.

Abstract: Disclosed is (i) an overmolding system, (ii) a method of an overmolding system, (iii) an article of manufacture for directing a data processing system to control a molding system, and (iv) an article manufactured by an overmolding system.

Abstract: A computer system and media for delivering routing information are provided. The computer system includes a routing engine, a database, and routing network that are employed to respond to routing requests and user modifications of routing information received in response to the routing requests. The routing engine receives the routing requests and generates routing information that illustrates a route and metadata for directions that guides a user when navigating the route. A user that is dissatisfied with the routing information may use route modification tools to alter the route in a manner that is consistent with the user's understanding of alternate routes that may supplement the routing information provided by the routing engine. The computer system receives the user modifications, stores the user modifications, and updates the routing network to learn the alternate route provided in the user modifications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for controlling the quality of a product produced by an injection molding production process. The invention includes performing a multivariate analysis on injection molding process data collected real-time and determining whether the real-time data is within a predetermined production control limit. When the real-time production data exceeds the control limit, the process is considered out of control and product produced during the out of control condition is removed real-time from the injection molding production process.

Abstract: Disclosed is: (i) a method of a molding system, (ii) a method of a controller of a molding system, (iii) a method of an article of manufacture of a controller of a molding system, (iv) a method of a network-transmittable signal of a controller of a molding system, (v) a method of a molding system having a controller, (vi) an article made by usage of a method. The method includes an operation of identifying quality of the molded article that was molded in a mold based on a determination of whether a plug blew, at least in part, from a melt passageway to the mold prior to a molding material entering the mold.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system. The system includes a mold-moving assembly that is cooperative with an insert-forming station to form an insert at least in part. The mold-moving assembly is also cooperative with an overmolding station to overmold another insert previously formed by the insert-forming station in cooperation with the mold-moving assembly. The mold-moving assembly, when so actuated, moves inserts between the insert-forming station and the overmolding station. Operation of the insert-forming station and operation of the overmolding station overlap one another at least in part.

Abstract: A controller for a mold vacuum unit uses a programmable logic controller to provide flexible translation of pre-existing signals present on the injection-molding machine avoiding the need for modification of that machine by the addition of limit switches or the like. Simple adjustment of real time of time delays is provided by the integration of two self-contained timer units working in conjunction with the fixed programming of the programmable logic controller. Removable memories for the programmable logic controller allow the vacuum unit to be used with a variety of different injection-molding machines.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for controlling an injection molding machine having a first surface and a second surface includes a piezo-ceramic sensor configured to be disposed between the first surface and a second surface. The piezo-ceramic sensor is configured to sense a force between the first surface and the second surface, and to generate corresponding sense signals. Transmission structure is coupled to the piezo-ceramic sensor and is configured to carry the sense signals. Preferably, a piezo-ceramic actuator is also disposed between the first surface and a second surface, and is configured to provide an expansive force between the first surface and a second surface in accordance with the sense signals.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for controlling temperature of a plant comprising plural temperature control zones, wherein an effective control parameter for a first zone for which a signal representing measured temperature is available is produced according to an algorithm relating measured temperature, a desired temperature and a control parameter associated with a device affecting temperature in the first temperature control zone, the effective control parameter is summed with an offset value representing a proportional offset of the effective control parameter of a second temperature control zone relative to the effective control parameter of the first temperature control zone and the result is applied to control a device affecting temperature in the second temperature control zone.

Abstract: Process for the control of an injection-moulding machine and optionally at least one handling apparatus allocated to same in which, in a form guiding the operator, the operating parameters required for an injection cycle to run are entered via an input unit into a data processing unit storing these operating parameters and then one or more injection cycles are carried out according to the stored operating parameters, safety conditions for the protection of machine parts by means of which certain movement sequences of the injection-molding machine or the handling device are forbidden or allowed, being specified prior to the start of injection, there being provided on a screen an input mask on which one of several, preferably graphically displayed, basic movement modules is selected in each case and on which then, for every selected basic movement module, a safety condition in the form of logical, preferably Boolean operations is adjusted or adopted from the state of one or more different basic movement modules

Abstract: A method of predicting the properties (e.g., mechanical and/or processing properties) of an injection-molded article is disclosed. The method makes use of a hybrid model which includes at least one neural network. In order to forecast (or predict) properties with respect to the manufacture of a plastic molded article, a hybrid model is used in the present invention, which includes: one or more neural networks NN1, NN2, NN3, NN4, . . . , NNk; and optionally one or more rigorous models R1, R2, R3, R4, . . . , which are connected to one another. The rigorous models are used to map model elements which can be described in mathematical formulae. The neural networks are used to map processes whose relationship is present only in the form of data, as it is in effect impossible to model such processes rigorously. As a result, a forecast relating to properties including the mechanical, thermal and rheological processing properties and relating to the process time of a plastic molded article is obtained.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing data in a mass storage system implementing striped RAID technology by topological categorization and ordering of the data according to the topology of the storage areas. A mass storage system includes a mass storage space for storing data items of a plurality of data types. Each data item contains data of a corresponding data type and each data type is defined by the characteristics of the information represented by the data. The storage space is topologically organized as a plurality of basic units of storage space containing a predetermined number of data blocks of predetermined sizes. A data classifier categorizes each data item as a member of a data type and, for each data type, orders the data of the data items into one or more data block groups in a corresponding write buffer wherein each data block group corresponds to a basic unit of storage, and writes each data item into a corresponding data type area of the storage space.

Abstract: A communication subscriber which, as a passive subscriber of a communication system, does not have its own transmission authorization but listens to all the communication processes and can receive only those data items which are also intended for it, which can be identified without doubt from destination identifier allocated to the data items, is given the capability, according to the invention, also to receive in addition those data items whose destination identifier and source identifier match an entry in a filter table provided in the communication subscriber which has been given the capability according to the invention.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling a molding machine includes structure and function for a human machine interface control panel having: (i) a flat panel display screen; (ii) a pointing device; (iii) a plurality of pushbuttons overlaid with or without icons; (iv) a housing containing the above and the associated electronics; (v) structure to uniquely identify each users preferred configuration; (vi) structure to connect to a remote controller for both digital information and video signal communication; (vii) a connection for receiving external power to drive the panel's electronics and display; and (viii) software running in the remote controller to provide all the operating functions of the human machine interface.

Abstract: Injection-molding machine arrangement comprising at least one injection molding machine with at least one, especially internal, machine control system—especially with a stored program control and/or with associated actuators and/or sensors—for computer-assisted process monitoring and control of the injection molding machine, wherein the injection-molding machine arrangement provides at least one mains supply transmission unit for data transmission via at least one mains electricity supply—preferably in a bi-directional and/or real-time-capable manner.

Abstract: Molding conditions of an injection molding machine are set through performance of virtual molding by CAE. First, actual molding is performed under provisional molding conditions in order to obtain an actual profile showing variation in load pressure actually measured during at least an injection step of the actual molding. Further, virtual molding is performed by CAE under the provisional molding conditions in order to obtain a virtual profile showing variation in load pressure simulated during at least an injection step of the virtual molding. The provisional molding conditions are changed by CAE in such a manner that the virtual profile coincides with the actual profile, to thereby obtain intermediate molding conditions. Subsequently, the intermediate molding conditions are optimized so as to obtain molding conditions for the injection molding machine.

Abstract: A method of predicting the properties (e.g., mechanical and/or processing properties) of an injection-molded article is disclosed. The method makes use of a hybrid model which includes at least one neural network. In order to forecast (or predict) properties with respect to the manufacture of a plastic molded article, a hybrid model is used in the present invention, which includes: one or more neural networks NN1, NN2, NN3, NN4, . . . , NNk; and optionally one or more rigorous models R1, R2, R3, R4, . . . , which are connected to one another. The rigorous models are used to map model elements which can be described in mathematical formulae. The neural networks are used to map processes whose relationship is present only in the form of data, as it is in effect impossible to model such processes rigorously. As a result, a forecast relating to properties including the mechanical, thermal and Theological processing properties and relating to the process time of a plastic molded article is obtained.

Abstract: An object is to reduce damage to the mechanical parts of a moving mechanism unit 5 for moving a retaining mechanism unit 7 and electric power consumption in an apparatus for taking out a molded product. The apparatus comprises a time measuring unit 4 for measuring a return time elapsing between a start of the returning operation of the retaining mechanism unit 7 in a preceding process and the next start of the penetrating operation for taking out a molded product; an arithmetic operation unit 11 for calculating a return moving speed distribution for a process succeeding the preceding process such that the returning operation terminates upon elapse of the return time measured by the time measuring means 4; and a control unit 12 for activating the moving mechanism unit 5 in such a way that the returning operation is carried out according to the return moving speed distribution in the succeeding process.

Abstract: An injection mold apparatus has multiple injection zones, each zone having at least one heater and at least one temperature sensor generating a temperature indicating signal. A power source provides power to the heaters. A controller controls the temperature of at least some of the zones. For efficiency, the controller has two separate processors, a data-receiving processor for receiving temperature indicating signal from each sensor as well as power signals, and a control processor for receiving data from the data-receiving processor and for controlling the amount of power provided to the heaters. Preferably, the control is in a housing, with the housing mounted directly on the mold. Modified PID calculations are utilized. Power calculations for the amount of power to the heaters utilizes a modulo based algorithm.

Abstract: An injection mold design system for correcting a profile of a product to be fabricated into a releasable profile from a mold to design an injection mold based on a corrected product shape, comprising storing information of product shape and mold profile, displaying the product shape or the mold profile on a screen based on the information read from the storing, inputting designation information necessary for correction of the product shape or the mold profile, and unloading information of lines or planes being obstructive to correction of the product shape and the mold profile into the storing in response to the designation information input removing the lines or the planes from the screen, and replotting the line or the planes on the screen in terms of the information of lines or planes unloaded into the storing after the correction operation of the product shape or the mold profile is completed.

Abstract: An injection molding system includes a program control section installed outside injection molding machines. The program control section includes a program file section that stores a plurality of different programs in the form of files, and a program transfer section that selects a computer program from the program file section and transfers the selected computer program to the controller of an arbitrary injection molding machine when the arbitrary injection molding machine is operated. Only when an injection molding machine is operated, a program (control program) for operating the injection molding machine is selected from the program file section of the program control section, and the thus-selected program is transferred to the corresponding controller by the program transfer section.

Abstract: A tool control for operating a tool in a mulitple station foam injection station including a central controller which is configured to use a first set of inquiry signals and a first set of control signals to monitor and control a standard tool, the tool control being configurable for interfacing with the central control and operating a nonstandard tool.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system. The system includes a mold-moving assembly that is cooperative with an insert-forming station to form an insert at least in part. The mold-moving assembly is also cooperative with an overmolding station to overmold another insert previously formed by the insert-forming station in cooperation with the mold-moving assembly. The mold-moving assembly, when so actuated, moves inserts between the insert-forming station and the overmolding station. Operation of the insert-forming station and operation of the overmolding station overlap one another at least in part.