Insert molding system

Abstract

A system for manufacturing multi-layered preforms from inserts is provided. The system comprises a device for molding the inserts into the multi-layered preforms and a mechanism for arranging the inserts used in forming the preforms into proper position for subsequent relocation to the molding device. A first loading station is provided for receiving the inserts from the mechanism for arranging, wherein the inserts are properly positioned for the molding device when located with the first loading station. A second loading station is also provided along with a mechanism for moving the inserts from the first loading station to the second loading station. A device for relocating the inserts from the second molding station to the molding device is used. A device for detecting if the inserts are at least one of present and absent during movement through the system is also provided. If at least one insert is present where the at least one insert should be absent and if at least one insert is absent where the insert should be present, an indicator thereof may be actuated.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.