Molding Machine for Efficient Pattern Switching and Pressing Operations and Method of Operating the Same

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: Molding Machine for Efficient Pattern Switching and Pressing Operations and Method of Operating the Same The present disclosure proposes a molding machine (100) for performing pressing and pattern switching operations. The molding machine (100) comprises a base plate (102), a driving unit (110), a primary driven unit (114), a secondary driven unit (124), a Geneva wheel (136), an actuation unit (148), a pair of pattern units (154A, 154B), a molding unit (160), and a control unit (168). The driving unit (110) is activated to perform pressing and pattern switching operations without manual intervention. The clutch (150) is configured to be engaged with the primary driven unit (114) and the secondary driven unit (124) upon activating the actuation unit (148). The pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) is configured to be rotated upon rotation of the Geneva wheel (136), thereby enabling pattern switching operation for performing different types of molds.

Specification

Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of molding machines, in specific, relates to a molding machine that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine.
Background of the invention:
[0002] Increasing demand for eco-friendly materials in various industries has prompted significant interest in utilizing agricultural waste as raw materials. Rice husk, a by-product of rice milling, is one such waste material that has garnered attention for its potential applications. Globally, millions of tons of rice husk are produced annually, contributing to environmental concerns due to its disposal issues. Traditional methods of disposal, such as burning, lead to air pollution and loss of valuable resources that could otherwise be utilized.

[0003] Rice husk is primarily composed of silica, lignin, and cellulose, which gives it unique properties that can be harnessed in various applications. These properties make rice husk an attractive alternative for manufacturing composite materials, insulation products, and even construction materials. Researchers and industry professionals have been exploring innovative methods to process rice husk to improve its usability, focusing on extraction processes that retain its beneficial properties while enhancing its functionality.

[0004] One of the most promising applications of rice husk is in the production of bio-composite materials. These materials combine rice husk with polymers or other binders to create lightweight, durable, and biodegradable products. The use of rice husk in composite manufacturing not only contributes to waste reduction but also provides an avenue for creating sustainable materials that can compete with conventional products. However, the challenges of consistent quality and effective processing methods remain significant barriers to large-scale adoption.

[0005] Current manufacturing techniques for processing rice husk often involve traditional methods that may not fully capitalize on the material's potential. These methods can be inefficient and may result in inconsistent product quality, limiting the applications of rice husk-based materials. Therefore, there is a pressing need for advancements in processing technologies that can facilitate the efficient conversion of rice husk into high-quality products.

[0006] In addition to composite manufacturing, rice husk has the potential for energy production through various thermochemical processes. The biomass can be converted into biofuels, such as bioethanol or biogas, which can serve as renewable energy sources. This not only offers an alternative to fossil fuels but also contributes to carbon footprint reduction. However, the technologies employed for these conversions need further development to enhance their efficiency and economic viability.

[0007] Another area of exploration is the application of rice husk in the production of lightweight concrete and other construction materials. The incorporation of rice husk into concrete mixtures has been shown to improve certain mechanical properties while reducing the overall weight of the material. This application aligns with the growing demand for sustainable construction practices, as it offers a way to utilize waste materials in structural applications. Despite these promising applications, the market for rice husk-based products remains underdeveloped due to several factors. The lack of standardized processing techniques and equipment can hinder the scalability of production and the consistency of product quality. Moreover, the initial investment costs for advanced processing machinery can be a barrier for many small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to enter the market.

[0008] Furthermore, the competition from synthetic materials, which often have established production processes and extensive market acceptance, poses another challenge for rice husk-based products. To successfully penetrate the market, innovative processing solutions are required that can enhance the competitiveness of rice husk as a raw material. These solutions should aim to improve not only the efficiency of processing but also the overall product performance.

[0009] By addressing all the above-mentioned problems, there is a need for a molding machine that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine. There is also a need for a molding machine that incorporates a Geneva mechanism for precise and controlled switching between multiple mold patterns, thereby enhancing the versatility and functionality of the molding process. There is also a need for a molding machine that incorporates a screw shaft mechanism that allows for precise control over the pressing force exerted on the mold, thereby improving the quality and consistency of the molded products. There is also a need for a molding machine that enables support for various mold patterns, such as plates, glasses, and chopping boards.

[0010] Additionally, there is a need for a molding machine that incorporates an actuator-controlled clutch for automatic switching between pressing and rotating modes, thereby simplifying the operation and significantly reducing the need for manual intervention. There is also a need for a molding machine that reduces space requirements and eliminates the need for multiple separate machines. There is also a need for a molding machine that is capable of performing both pressing and pattern switching functions using a single driving unit. Further, there is also a need for a molding machine that is adaptable and provides a versatile molding solution that can meet various production demands and application requirements by switching between mold patterns efficiently and accurately.
Objectives of the invention:
[0011] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that incorporates a Geneva mechanism for precise and controlled switching between multiple mold patterns, thereby enhancing the versatility and functionality of the molding process.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that incorporates a screw shaft mechanism that allows for precise control over the pressing force exerted on the mold, thereby improving the quality and consistency of the molded products.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that enables support for various mold patterns, such as plates, glasses, and chopping boards.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that incorporates a clutch for automatic switching between pressing and rotating modes, thereby simplifying the operation and significantly reducing the need for manual intervention.

[0016] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that performs both pressing and pattern switching with a single driving unit using a clutch to engage different pulley mechanisms.

[0017] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that reduces space requirements and eliminates the need for multiple separate machines.

[0018] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that is capable of performing both pressing and pattern switching functions using a single driving unit.

[0019] Further objective of the present invention is to provide a molding machine that provides a versatile molding solution that can meet various production demands and application requirements by switching between mold patterns efficiently and accurately.
Summary of the invention:
[0020] The present disclosure proposes a molding machine for efficient pattern switching and pressing operations and method of operating the same. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0021] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide a molding machine that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine.

[0022] According to one aspect, the invention provides the molding machine. In one embodiment herein, the molding machine comprises a base plate, a driving unit, a primary driven unit, a secondary driven unit, a Geneva wheel, an actuation unit, a pair of pattern units, a molding unit, and a control unit. In one embodiment herein, the base plate is extended with a supporting rod. The base plate comprises an extended member and a supporting member. In one embodiment herein, the driving unit securing a driving shaft is operatively affixed to the extended member. The driving unit is activated to perform pressing and pattern switching operations without manual intervention.

[0023] In one embodiment herein, the primary driven unit is rotatably supported on the supporting member. The primary driven unit comprises a first pulley and a second pulley, which are rotatably connected via a primary belt drive. The first pulley is rotatably mounted on the driving shaft, and the second pulley is rotatably connected to a screw shaft, which is supported on the supporting member through an opening. In one embodiment herein, the secondary driven unit is rotatably connected to the driving unit. The secondary driven unit comprises a third pulley and a fourth pulley, which are rotatably connected via a second belt drive. The third pulley is rotatably connected to the driving shaft, and the fourth pulley is rotatably connected to a driving wheel, which is supported on the supporting member.

[0024] In one embodiment herein, the Geneva wheel configured with plurality of slots is rotatably supported on the driving wheel through a protruding member. The Geneva wheel comprises a rotating shaft extended to a platform through the supporting member. In one embodiment herein, the rotating shaft comprises a primary spring flexibly connected in between the pair of pattern units to manage mechanical stress and maintain alignment during the pressing and the pattern switching operations. In one embodiment herein, the at least one pattern unit securing the plurality of female patterns is flexibly supported on a secondary spring, which is mounted over the rotating shaft and is supported on the platform.

[0025] In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit is operatively positioned on the supporting member. The actuation unit comprises a clutch having at least two protrusions having a gear teeth configuration. The clutch is configured to be engaged with the primary driven unit and the secondary driven unit upon activating the actuation unit. In one embodiment herein, the pair of pattern units is rotatably mounted over the rotating shaft. The at least one pattern unit comprises plurality of male patterns and the at least one pattern unit comprises plurality of female patterns. The pair of pattern units is configured to be rotated upon rotation of the Geneva wheel, thereby enabling pattern switching operations for producing multiple types of molds.

[0026] In one embodiment herein, the molding unit comprises a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment is movably connected to the supporting rod through the screw shaft, and the second compartment is securely positioned on the ground. The first compartment is configured to move in a downward direction along the screw shaft upon rotation of the primary driven unit, thereby enabling pressing operation on the pair of pattern units for performing molding operations to produce the multiple types of molds.

[0027] In one embodiment herein, the control unit is configured to be in communication with a user interface, which is operably positioned on a portion of the molding machine. The control unit is configured for performing the pressing and the pattern switching operations based on the user's inputs. In one embodiment herein, the control unit is configured for activating the actuation unit, thereby enabling the clutch to move in an upward direction and engage with the third pulley of the secondary driven unit upon the user selects the pattern switching operation on the user interface. In one embodiment herein, the third pulley comprises a second gear teeth profile, which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch for rotating the driving wheel in connection with the fourth pulley, thereby rotating the Geneva wheel and the pair of pattern units for switching patterns based on the user's

[0028] In one embodiment herein, the control unit is configured for activating the actuation unit, thereby enabling the clutch to move in a downward direction and engage with the first pulley of the primary driven unit upon the user selects the pressing operation on the user interface. In one embodiment herein, the first pulley comprises a first gear teeth profile, which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch for rotating the screw shaft in connection with the second pulley, thereby enabling the pressing operation to the first compartment of the molding unit.

[0029] In one embodiment herein, the protruding member of the driving wheel is configured to be inserted within the at least one slot of the Geneva wheel upon rotation, thereby enabling the Geneva wheel to rotate in at least one direction and position at least one male pattern and at least one female pattern beneath the first compartment for performing the pressing operation upon filling rice husk on the at least one female pattern. In one embodiment herein, the user interface comprises plurality of control buttons, which is activated by the user to actuate the actuation unit, thereby controlling the movement of the clutch while performing pressing and the pattern switching operations. In one embodiment herein, the user interface is configured to facilitate the user in selecting the desired mold pattern, thereby producing different types of molds based on the user's requirements.

[0030] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for operating the molding machine for performing the pressing and pattern switching operations. At one step, the user selects the at least one male pattern and the at least one female pattern from the pair of pattern units via the user interface, and the control unit activates the driving unit to rotate in at least one direction. At another step, the control unit activates the actuation unit, thereby enabling the clutch to move in the upward direction and engage with the third pulley of the secondary driven unit upon the user selecting the pattern switching operation on the user interface.

[0031] At another step, the driving wheel is rotated upon rotating the fourth pulley, enabling the Geneva wheel to rotate in the at least one direction, thereby enabling the plurality of pattern units for switching patterns based on the user's requirement. At another step, the at least one male pattern and the at least one female pattern are positioned beneath the first compartment of the molding unit, and the rice husk is filled on the at least one female pattern by the user. At another step, the actuation unit is activated by the control unit, thereby enabling the clutch to move in the downward direction and engage with the first pulley of the primary driven unit upon the user selecting the pressing operation on the user interface.

[0032] At another step, the screw shaft in connection with the second pulley is rotated, thereby enabling the first compartment to move in the downward direction along the screw shaft for performing a pressing operation in order to produce the at least one mold selected by the user. Further, at other step, the control unit activates the driving unit to rotate in the opposite direction, and the screw shaft is rotated in the opposite direction to move the first compartment in the upward direction upon completing the molding operation, thereby removing the at least one mold by the user manually.

[0033] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0034] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.

[0035] FIGs. 1A-1B illustrate isometric views of a molding machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the molding machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the molding machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0038] FIGs. 4A-4C illustrate isometric views of the molding machine while performing a pressing and a pattern switching operations, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0039] FIGs. 5A illustrates an isometric view of the molding machine while performing the pattern switching operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0040] FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric view of the molding machine while performing the pressing operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0041] FIG. 5C illustrates an isometric view of the molding machine while performing a molding operation to at least one pattern selected by a user, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0042] FIG. 5D illustrates an isometric view of the molding machine while removing the mold upon completing the molding operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for operating the molding machine for performing the pressing and pattern switching operations, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0044] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.

[0045] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a molding machine that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 1A-1B refer to isometric views of the molding machine 100. The proposed molding machine 100 incorporates a Geneva mechanism for precise and controlled switching between multiple mold patterns, thereby enhancing the versatility and functionality of the molding process. The molding machine 100 enables support for various mold patterns, such as plates, glasses, and chopping boards. The molding machine 100 reduces space requirements and eliminates the need for multiple separate machines.

[0047] In one embodiment herein, the molding machine 100 comprises a base plate 102, a driving unit 110, a primary driven unit 114, a secondary driven unit 124, a Geneva wheel 136, an actuation unit 148, a pair of pattern units (154A, 154B), a molding unit 160, and a control unit 168. In one embodiment herein, the base plate 102 is extended with a supporting rod 104. The base plate 102 comprises an extended member 106 and a supporting member 108. In one embodiment herein, the driving unit 110 securing a driving shaft 112 (as shown in FIG. 1C) is operatively affixed to the extended member 106. The driving unit 110 is activated to perform pressing and pattern switching operations without manual intervention.

[0048] In one embodiment herein, the primary driven unit 114 is rotatably supported on the supporting member 108. In one embodiment herein, the secondary driven unit 124 is rotatably connected to the driving unit 110. In one embodiment herein, the Geneva wheel 136 configured with plurality of slots 138 is rotatably supported on the driving wheel 132 through a protruding member 134. The Geneva wheel 136 comprises a rotating shaft 140 extended to a platform 142 through the supporting member 108. In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit 148 is operatively positioned on the supporting member 108. The actuation unit 148 comprises a clutch 150 having at least two protrusions 152 (as shown in FIG. 1C) having a gear teeth configuration. The clutch 150 is configured to be engaged with the primary driven unit 114 and the secondary driven unit 124 upon activating the actuation unit 148.

[0049] In one embodiment herein, the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) is rotatably mounted over the rotating shaft 140. The at least one pattern unit 154A comprises plurality of male patterns 156 and the at least one pattern unit 154B comprises plurality of female patterns 158. The pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) is configured to be rotated upon rotation of the Geneva wheel 136, thereby enabling pattern switching operations for producing mulitple types of molds.

[0050] In one embodiment herein, the molding unit 160 comprises a first compartment 162 and a second compartment 164. The first compartment 162 is movably connected to the supporting rod 104 through the screw shaft 122 and the second compartment 164 is securely positioned on the ground. The first compartment 162 is configured to move in a downward direction along the screw shaft 122 upon rotation of the primary driven unit 114, thereby enabling pressing operation on the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) for performing molding operations to produce the multiple types of molds. In one embodiment herein, the control unit 168 is configured to be in communication with a user interface 166 that is operably positioned on a portion of the molding machine 100. The control unit 168 is configured for performing the pressing and the pattern switching operations based on the user's inputs.

[0051] In one embodiment herein, the user interface 166 comprises plurality of control buttons, which is activated by the user to actuate the actuation unit 148, thereby controlling the movement of the clutch 150 while performing pressing and the pattern switching operations. In one embodiment herein, the user interface 166 is configured to facilitate the user in selecting the desired mold pattern, thereby producing different types of molds based on the user's requirement.

[0052] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 refers to an exploded view of the molding machine 100. The primary driven unit 114 comprises a first pulley 116 and a second pulley 118 which are rotatably connected via a primary belt drive 120. The first pulley 116 is rotatably mounted on the driving shaft 112 and the second pulley 118 is rotatably connected to a screw shaft 122, which is supported on the supporting member 108 through an opening. The secondary driven unit 124 comprises a third pulley 126 and a fourth pulley 128 which are rotatably connected via a second belt drive 130. The third pulley 126 is rotatably connected to the driving shaft 112 and the fourth pulley 128 is rotatably connected to a driving wheel 132, which is supported on the supporting member 108.

[0053] In one embodiment herein, the rotating shaft 140 comprises a primary spring 144 flexibly connected in between the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) to manage mechanical stress and maintain alignment during the pressing and the pattern switching operations. In one embodiment herein, the at least one pattern unit (154A, 154B) securing the plurality of female patterns 158 is flexibly supported on a secondary spring 146, which is mounted over the rotating shaft 140 and is supported on the platform 142.

[0054] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 refers to an exploded view of the molding machine 100. In one embodiment herein, the third pulley 126 comprises a second gear teeth profile 127, which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch 150. In one embodiment herein, the first pulley 116 comprises a first gear teeth profile 117, which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch 150.

[0055] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 4A-4C refer to isometric views of the molding machine 100 while performing the pressing and the pattern switching operations. In one embodiment herein, the control unit 168 is configured for activating the actuation unit 148, thereby enabling the clutch 150 to move in an upward direction and engage with the third pulley 126 of the secondary driven unit 124 upon the user selects the pattern switching operation on the user interface 166.

[0056] In one embodiment herein, the second gear teeth profile 127 is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch 150 for rotating the driving wheel 132 in connection with the fourth pulley 128, thereby rotating the Geneva wheel 136 and the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) for switching patterns based on the user's In one embodiment herein, the protruding member 134 (as shown in FIG. 1A) of the driving wheel 132 is configured to be inserted within the at least one slot 138 of the Geneva wheel 136 upon rotation, thereby enabling the Geneva wheel 136 to rotate in at least one direction and position at least one male pattern 156 and at least one female pattern 158 beneath the first compartment 162 for performing the pressing operation upon filling rice husk on the at least one female pattern 158.

[0057] In one embodiment herein, the control unit 168 is configured for activating the actuation unit 148, thereby enabling the clutch 150 to move in a downward direction and engage with the first pulley 116 of the primary driven unit 114 upon the user selects the pressing operation on the user interface 166. In one embodiment herein, the first gear teeth profile 117 is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch 150 for rotating the screw shaft 122 in connection with the second pulley 118, thereby enabling the pressing operation to the first compartment 162 of the molding unit 160. The molding machine 100 is designed to perform pressing and pattern-switching operations to convert rice husk into various molded products by selectively switching between patterning and pressing actions without requiring separate motors for each function.

[0058] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5A refers to an isometric view of the molding machine 100 while performing the pattern switching operation. Initially, the clutch 150 connects with the primary driven unit 114, setting the first compartment 162 of the molding unit 160 into its starting position. The pattern-switching operation begins with a simple activation step. The user initiates the pattern selection process by pressing a control button on the user interface 166. This action actuates the control unit 168, which then signals the actuation unit 148 to shift the clutch 150 from its connection with the first pulley 116 to the third pulley 126 within the secondary driven unit 124. As this shift occurs, the first pulley 116 of the primary driven unit 114 is disconnected with the clutch 150, thereby allowing the screw shaft 122 to remain stationary.

[0059] Once the clutch 150 is aligned with the third pulley 126, the driving unit 110 is activated to transmit motion to the fourth pulley 128 via the second belt drive 130. The rotational force from the fourth pulley 128 is then directed to the Geneva wheel 136 through the driving wheel 132. The protruding member 134 of the driving wheel 132 is configured to engage with the plurality of slots 138 on the Geneva wheel 136. This incremental engagement initiates a stepwise motion, thereby allowing the Geneva wheel 136 to rotate in controlled steps, precisely aligning the at least one male pattern 156 and the at least one female pattern 158, respectively, on the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) to a selected position.

[0060] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5B refers to an isometric view of the molding machine 100 while performing the pressing operation. Following pattern alignment, the user presses the control button on the user interface 166 again to lock the desired pattern in place, thereby ensuring stability during the subsequent pressing operation. At this point, the rice husk or other molding material is introduced into the at least female pattern 158, thereby setting the stage for the pressing phase.

[0061] For the pressing operation, the clutch 150 disengages from the secondary driven unit 124 and re-engages with the primary driven unit 114, thereby reconnecting the driving unit 110 with the primary belt drive 120. This re-engagement directs the driving unit 110 rotation to the first and second pulleys (116, 118), setting them into an anti-clockwise motion. Consequently, this rotation drives the screw shaft 122, thereby causing the first compartment 162 of the molding unit 160 to move downward and apply pressure onto the rice husk within the female pattern 158. This action compresses the material, thereby forming it into the selected mold shape with precision.

[0062] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5C refers to an isometric view of the molding machine 100 while performing a molding operation to the at least one pattern selected by the user. To enhance material integrity, a heating coil embedded within the second compartment 164 activates during the pressing phase. This heating element ensures that the molded material solidifies within the mold cavity. The user is advised to wait a few seconds to allow complete solidification. This step is crucial for producing a sturdy and cohesive final product, particularly with materials that benefit from slight heating for bonding purposes.

[0063] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5D refers to an isometric view of the molding machine 100 while removing the mold upon completing the molding operation. After the material has sufficiently solidified, the control unit 168 reverses the driving unit's 110 rotation. This reverse motion causes the first and second pulleys (116, 118) to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby lifting the screw shaft 122 and retracting the first compartment 162 to its initial position. This upward movement clears the mold cavity, thereby facilitating the extraction of the molded product. Once retracted, the user can safely remove the solidified product from the pattern, effectively completing the molding cycle.

[0064] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 6 refers to a flowchart 600 of a method for operating the molding machine 100 for performing the pressing and pattern switching operations. At step 602, the user selects the at least one male pattern 156 and the at least one female pattern 158 from the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) via the user interface 166, and the control unit 168 activates the driving unit 110 to rotate in at least one direction. At step 604, the control unit 168 activates the actuation unit 148, thereby enabling the clutch 150 to move in the upward direction and engage with the third pulley 126 of the secondary driven unit 124 upon the user selecting the pattern switching operation on the user interface 166.

[0065] At step 606, the driving wheel 132 is rotated upon rotating the fourth pulley 128, enabling the Geneva wheel 136 to rotate in the at least one direction, thereby enabling the plurality of pattern units (154A, 154B) for switching patterns based on the user's requirement. At step 608, the at least one male pattern 156 and the at least one female pattern 158 are positioned beneath the first compartment 162 of the molding unit 160, and the rice husk is filled on the at least one female pattern 158 by the user.

[0066] At step 610, the actuation unit 148 is activated by the control unit 168, thereby enabling the clutch 150 to move in the downward direction and engage with the first pulley 116 of the primary driven unit 114 upon the user selecting the pressing operation on the user interface 166. At step 612, the screw shaft 122 in connection with the second pulley 118 is rotated, thereby enabling the first compartment 162 to move in the downward direction along the screw shaft 122 for performing a pressing operation in order to produce the at least one mold selected by the user. Further, at step 614, the control unit 168 activates the driving unit 110 to rotate in the opposite direction, and the screw shaft 122 is rotated in the opposite direction to move the first compartment 162 in the upward direction upon completing the molding operation, thereby removing the at least one mold by the user manually.

[0067] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, is disclosed. The proposed invention provides the molding machine 100 that efficiently combines pressing and rotating functions to enable seamless pattern molding and pattern switching within a single machine. The proposed molding machine 100 incorporates a Geneva mechanism for precise and controlled switching between multiple mold patterns, thereby enhancing the versatility and functionality of the molding process. The molding machine 100 incorporates the screw shaft 122 that allows for precise control over the pressing force exerted on the mold, thereby improving the quality and consistency of the molded products.

[0068] The molding machine 100 enables support for various mold patterns, such as plates, glasses, and chopping boards. The molding machine 100 incorporates the clutch 150 for automatic switching between pressing and rotating modes, thereby simplifying the operation and significantly reducing the need for manual intervention. The molding machine 100 reduces space requirements and eliminates the need for multiple separate machines. The molding machine is capable of performing both pressing and pattern switching functions using the single driving unit 110. The molding machine 100 provides a versatile molding solution that can meet various production demands and application requirements by switching between mold patterns efficiently and accurately.

[0069] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.
, Claims:CLAIMS:
I/We Claim:
1. A molding machine (100) for performing pressing and pattern switching operations, comprising:
a base plate (102) extended with a supporting rod (104), wherein the base plate (102) comprises an extended member (106) and a supporting member (108);
a driving unit (110) with a driving shaft (112) operatively affixed to the extended member (106), wherein the driving unit (110) is configured to be activated to perform both the pressing and pattern switching operations without any manual intervention;
a primary driven unit (114) rotatably supported on the supporting member (108), wherein the primary driven unit (114) comprises a first pulley (116) and a second pulley (118), which are rotatably connected via a primary belt drive (120), wherein the first pulley (116) is rotatably mounted on the driving shaft (112) and the second pulley (118) is rotatably connected to a screw shaft (122), which is supported on the supporting member (108) through an opening;
a secondary driven unit (124) rotatably connected to the driving unit (110), wherein the secondary driven unit (124) comprises a third pulley (126) and a fourth pulley (128), which are rotatably connected via a second belt drive (130), wherein the third pulley (126) is rotatably connected to the driving shaft (112) and the fourth pulley (128) is rotatably connected to a driving wheel (132), which is supported on the supporting member (108);
a Geneva wheel (136) having plurality of slots (138) rotatably supported on the driving wheel (132) through a protruding member (134), wherein the Geneva wheel (136) comprises a rotating shaft (140) extended to a platform (142) through the supporting member (108);
an actuation unit (148) operatively positioned on the supporting member (108), wherein the actuation unit (148) comprises a clutch (150) having at least two protrusions (152) with a gear teeth configuration, wherein the clutch (150) is configured to be engaged with the primary driven unit (114) and the secondary driven unit (124) upon activating the actuation unit (148);
a pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) rotatably mounted over the rotating shaft (140), wherein the at least one pattern unit (154A) comprises plurality of male patterns (156) and the at least one pattern unit (154B) comprises plurality of female patterns (158), wherein the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) is configured to be rotated upon rotation of the Geneva wheel (136), thereby enabling the pattern switching operation for producing multiple types of molds;
a molding unit (160) comprises a first compartment (162) and a second compartment (164), wherein the first compartment (162) is movably connected to the supporting rod (104) through the screw shaft (122), and the second compartment (164) is securely positioned on the ground, wherein the first compartment (162) is configured to move in a downward direction along the screw shaft (122) upon rotation of the primary driven unit (114), thereby enabling pressing operation on the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) for performing a molding operation to produce the multiple types of molds; and
a control unit (168) configured to communicate with a user interface (166), which is operably positioned on a portion of the molding machine (100), wherein the control unit (168) is adapted to activate the actuation unit (148) for performing the pressing and the pattern switching operations based on user's inputs.
2. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (168) is configured for activating the actuation unit (148), thereby enabling the clutch (150) to move in an upward direction and engage with the third pulley (126) of the secondary driven unit (124) upon the user selects the pattern switching operation through the user interface (166).
3. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the third pulley (126) comprises a second gear teeth profile (127), which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch (150) for rotating the driving wheel (132) in connection with the fourth pulley (128), thereby rotating the Geneva wheel (136) and the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) for switching patterns based on the user's inputs.
4. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (168) is configured for activating the actuation unit (148), thereby enabling the clutch (150) to move in a downward direction and engage with the first pulley (116) of the primary driven unit (114) when the user selects the pressing operation through the user interface (166).
5. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first pulley (116) comprises a first gear teeth profile (117), which is configured to be engaged with the gear tooth configuration of the clutch (150) for rotating the screw shaft (122) in connection with the second pulley (118), thereby enabling the pressing operation of the first compartment (162).
6. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruding member (134) of the driving wheel (132) is configured to insert into at least one slot (138) of the Geneva wheel (136) to rotate the Geneva wheel (136) in at least one direction, thereby aligning at least one male pattern (156) and at least one female pattern (158) beneath the first compartment (162) to enable the pressing operation once rice husk is filled onto the at least one female pattern (164).
7. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user interface (166) comprises plurality of control buttons, which is operated by the user to actuate the actuation unit (148) for controlling the movement of the clutch (150) while performing both the pressing and the pattern switching operations.
8. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user interface (166) is configured to facilitate the user in selecting a desired mold pattern based on the requirement.
9. The molding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotating shaft (140) comprises a primary spring (144) that is flexibly positioned between the pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) to absorb mechanical stress and ensure proper alignment during both the pressing and the pattern switching operations,
wherein the at least one pattern unit (154A, 154B) secures the plurality of female patterns (158) that is flexibly supported by a secondary spring (146), which is mounted over the rotating shaft (140) and is supported on the platform (142).
10. A method for operating a molding machine (100) for performing pressing and pattern switching operations, comprising:
selecting, by a user, at least one male pattern (156) and at least one female pattern (158) from a pair of pattern units (154A, 154B) via a user interface (166) and activating a driving unit (110) by a control unit (168) to rotate in at least one direction;
activating, by the control unit (168), an actuation unit (148), thereby enabling a clutch (150) to move in an upward direction and engage with a third pulley (126) of a secondary driven unit (124) upon the user selects a pattern switching operation on the user interface (166);
rotating a driving wheel (132) upon rotating a fourth pulley (128) and rotating the Geneva wheel (136) in at least one direction, thereby enabling the plurality of pattern units (154A, 154B) for switching patterns based on the user's requirement;
positioning the at least one male pattern (156) and the at least one female pattern (158) beneath a first compartment (162) of a molding unit (160) upon rotation, and filling rice husk on the at least one female pattern (158) by the user;
activating, by the control unit (168), the actuation unit (148) for enabling the clutch (150) to move in a downward direction and engage with a first pulley (116) of a primary driven unit (114) upon the user selects a pressing operation on the user interface (166);
rotating a screw shaft (122) in connection with a second pulley (118) for enabling the first compartment (162) to move in a downward direction along the screw shaft (122) for performing a pressing operation in order to produce at least one mold selected by the user; and
activating, by the control unit (168), the driving unit (110) to rotate in an opposite direction and rotating the screw shaft (122) in the opposite direction to move the first compartment (162) in an upward direction upon completing the molding operation, thereby removing the at least one mold by the user manually.

Documents