TAKE-OUT ASSEMBLY FOR BLOW MOLDING MACHINE

摘要

An improved take-out assembly for removing workpieces from a blow molding machine particularly adapted for blow molding machines having continuously rotating turn table which rotates about a horizontal axis. The take-out assembly includes a turntable with a plurality of extending pick-up units having suction cup type engaging pads at their ends. Rotation of the take-out assembly turntable is coordinated with the blow molder turntable such that a suction cup pick-up unit is positioned to engage a workpiece at the desired work station. The pick-up units are radially movable to extend and retract to provide clearance during rotation and to properly engage the workpiece at the discharge stations. A rotary timing valve is used to conduct a vacuum source to the individual pick-up heads at the desired point in the operating cycle of the take-out assembly. Workpieces being removed from the blow molder turntable are transported by the pick-up assembly into registry with an associated material handling device such as an endless belt type conveyor. The take-out assembly mechanism further includes a mechanism for enabling it to be moved away from the blow molder discharge station to enable manual removal of workpieces which is desirable during machine start up, testing modification, etc.