METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING A TWO-PIECE PLASTIC ASSEMBLY

摘要

A method and apparatus for manufacturing a two-piece plastic assembly from a single die set comprising a series of steps. A molding apparatus having a first mold moveable between first and second positions and a second mold is utilized for manufacturing the plastic articles. The first mold has a first surface and a second surface. The second mold has a third surface and a fourth surface. The apparatus moves the first mold to the first position and then closes. The apparatus brings the first and second molds together causing the first and third mold surfaces to define a first article cavity and the second and fourth mold surfaces to define a second article cavity. A molten first plastic material is injected into the first article cavity. A second plastic material is injected into the second article cavity. After the first and second materials have cooled, they form a first and second article respectively. The apparatus is opened and the first mold is moved to a second position. The apparatus is closed and the first mold positions the first article juxtaposed to the second article and forms a joining cavity therebetween. A third plastic material is injected into the joining cavity and joins the first and second article to form the plastic assembly.