Advanced Human Machine Interface Improves Hot Runner Control, Flexibility

Oerlikon HRSflow has thoroughly revised the software for the control unit of its FLEXflow hot runner systems, with updates to the human machine interface (HMI) 4.0 and access authorizations. 

HMI 4.0 now offers the possibility to control multiple servo motors individually and with specific data, Oerlikon HRSflow says. This also enables the handling of systems with mixed nozzle dimensions. For this purpose, the system uses specific mold cards for each tool equipped with the FLEXflow hot runner technology. All the information required by the control system can be uploaded to these cards, including recipes, the number and configuration of servo-electric nozzles. These mold cards can be downloaded on a USB stick to transfer them to another control unit or to save them as a backup.

To facilitate individual programming and to make it more intuitive, an image of the respective molded part can be stored on the corresponding card. There, individual gating points can be correlated to the respective hot runner nozzle. Moreover, the user can manage the operation parameters of each motor to independently optimize the performance of the related nozzle. A cycle list page provides master diagrams for individual molding recipes. Overlaying the appropriate diagram for a specific task with the corresponding actual process data provides the possibility to check the process stability and to take measures where necessary.

In addition, creating and storing individual profiles for users or user groups reportedly provides customized functionalities which can be flexibly adapted. The number of these user accounts is unlimited and several users can connect to a control unit at the same time.

Integrated into the customer’s network, the HMI 4.0 enables controlling FLEXflow hot runner systems from any location via PC or tablet, using an internet browser. The responsive graphic display adapts to the most common monitor resolutions.