Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
PRE-CONCENTRIC TIP AND DIE ASSEMBLY
2. APPLICANT:
Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., an Indian company of the address Survey No. 135/139 Bilakhia House, Muktanand Marg, Chala, Vapi-Gujarat 396191, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:

 
FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure relates to the field of tube extrusion. More specifically, the present disclosure pertains to a pre-concentric tip and die assembly.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] The extrusion process is widely utilized in the manufacturing of medical tubes, where precise control over inner and outer lumen dimensions is critical. The process involves forcing molten material through a tip and die assembly to shape the tube. The accuracy of the tip and die assembly significantly impacts the quality, consistency, and dimensional precision of the tubes.
[003] Conventional tip and die assemblies require manual alignment for concentric positioning of the tip and die, which directly influences the uniformity of wall thickness and overall dimensional accuracy of the tube. Achieving proper alignment of the tip and die assembly is a meticulous process. The process relies on manual adjustments, often involving the tightening or loosening of bolts that press against the die surface. Further, this method is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and highly dependent on an operator skill, making it prone to inconsistencies and human error. Even slight misalignments can lead to defects such as uneven wall thickness, poor concentricity, and/or variations in lumen size, ultimately compromising the functional reliability of the medical tube.
[004] A conventional tip and die assembly 30 is disclosed in Fig. A and Fig. B, where the assembly includes a tip 10 and a die 20. One end of the tip 10 is coupled to a spider head (not shown), and the other end of the tip 10 is disposed within the die 20, forming a cavity that is configured to provide a passage for molten material to flow through. The conventional tip and die assembly 30 is housed within a die head 45, which holds both the tip and die in position during extrusion. To facilitate alignment, the die head 45 includes multiple engaging elements 46 that move along an axis in both upward and downward directions. These engaging elements 46 apply pressure to the die surface, allowing operators to adjust the die 20 position relative to the tip 10 manually. However, there are challenges associated with this manual alignment process. Since each engaging element 46 moves independently, achieving precise concentric positioning of the tip and die is difficult. Variations in the pressure applied by different engaging elements often lead to slight shifts in the die’s 20 position, causing inconsistencies in the tube’s dimensions. This results in defects such as uneven wall thickness, poor concentricity, and variations in lumen size.
[005] The reliance on operator skill makes the process prone to human error, reducing repeatability and/or increasing setup time. These issues highlight the limitations of conventional tip and die assemblies and underscore the need for an improved design that minimizes manual intervention while ensuring precise alignment for enhanced manufacturing efficiency and product quality.
[006] Thus, there arises a need for an assembly that overcomes the problems associated with conventional assembly.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[007] The present invention relates to an assembly for extruding a tube. The assembly includes a tip configured to be removably coupled to a head and a die coaxially aligned with and coupled to the tip. The die includes a first member and a second member. The first member has a front section, a middle section, a tail section, and a flange. The flange is coupled to the front section and includes a plurality of openings configured to allow a flow of the molten material. The second member coaxially aligned with and coupled to the first member defining a first annular cavity with the middle section of the first member followed by a second annular cavity with the tail section of the first member. The first annular cavity and the second annular cavity are configured to direct the received molten material towards an extrusion point of the assembly, thereby forming a tube.
[008] The foregoing features and other features as well as the advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[009] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the apportioned drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.
[0010] Fig. A depicts an exploded view of a conventional assembly 30, in accordance with an embodiment of the prior art.
[0011] Fig. B depicts a perspective view of a die head 45 with conventional assembly 30, in accordance with an embodiment of the prior art.
[0012] Fig. 1A depicts a perspective view of an assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] Fig. 1B depicts an exploded front view of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] Fig. 2A depicts a perspective view of a tip 110 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Fig. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view of the tip 110 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] Fig. 3A depicts a perspective view of a first member 160 of a die 150 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0017] Fig. 3B depicts a front view of the first member 160 of the die 150 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] Fig. 3C depicts a cross-sectional view of the first member 160 of the die 150 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] Fig. 4A depicts a perspective view of a second member 180 of the die 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] Fig. 4B depicts a cross-sectional view of the second member 180 of the die 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] Fig. 5 depicts a cross-sectional view of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] Fig. 6A depicts a perspective view of an extrusion die 600, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] Fig. 6B depicts an exploded view of the extrusion die 600, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] Fig. 6C depicts an exploded view of the extrusion die 600 with a head closure plate 650 and die head heater 660, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0025] Prior to describing the invention in detail, definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document will be defined: the terms "include" and "comprise", as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "coupled with" and "associated therewith", as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have a property of, or the like; Definitions of certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
[0026] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0027] Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed method may be described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can encompass an order of operations other than the particular, sequential order disclosed. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Further, descriptions and disclosures provided in association with one particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment, and may be applied to any embodiment disclosed herein. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed system, method, and apparatus can be used in combination with other systems, methods, and apparatuses.
[0028] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments. These features and advantages of the embodiments will become more fully apparent from the following description and apportioned claims, or may be learned by the practice of embodiments as set forth hereinafter.
[0029] The present disclosure relates to an assembly for extrusion of a tube. The assembly is a pre-aligned tip and die assembly, eliminating the need for manual alignment and improving process efficiency and product consistency. The tip and die assembly are pre-fitted together before mounting on a die head, ensuring perfect alignment during operation. The assembly streamlines the extrusion process ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted material flow, minimizing defects, and increasing operational efficiency of an overall extrusion process. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the tip and die assembly are coupled with each other by a press-fit mechanism that provides a firm coupling, reducing vibrations and enhancing durability, though other possible ways of coupling are within the scope of the present disclosure. The assembly provides a cost-effective and reliable solution for extrusion systems, making it an essential upgrade for modern manufacturing environments.
[0030] Referring now to figures, Figs. 1A to 1B depict multiple views of an assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The assembly 100 for extruding a tube, particularly a medial tube, is disclosed. The assembly 100 has a first end 100a and a second end 100b. In an embodiment, the first end 100a of the assembly 100 is positioned towards a head of an extrusion machine, where material enters the extrusion process. The second end 100b of the assembly 100 is positioned towards an extrusion point 506 (as shown in Fig. 5), where the tube is formed and exits the machine. The assembly 100 includes a tip 110 and a die 150. The tip 110 is coaxially aligned and removably coupled to the die 150. The die 150 is coaxially aligned with and coupled to the tip 110. The die 150 includes a first member 160 and a second member 180, clearly demonstrated in Fig. 1B. The first member 160 is coaxially aligned with and coupled to the second member 180.
[0031] Fig. 2A depicts a perspective view and Fig. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view of the tip 110 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The tip 110 is removably coupled to a spider head of the extrusion machine. The tip 110 includes a first coupling section 202, a second coupling section 204, and a locking section 206. The first coupling section 202 is provided towards a first end 110a of the tip 110 and configured to couple the tip 110 with the spider head. The coupling of the tip 110 and the spider head is facilitated through various structural configurations, such as threading, semi-threading, or a smooth surface, depending on the required application. In an embodiment, the first coupling section 202 includes a plurality of external threads configured to mate with corresponding internal threads of the spider head. This threaded engagement ensures a firm and stable connection between the tip 110 and the spider head, minimizing the risk of detachment or misalignment during the extrusion process. Alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, the first coupling section 202 may have a smooth or semi-threaded surface to allow for a press-fit or other attachment mechanisms. The dimension of the first coupling section 202 may correspond to the dimension of the of the head. The diameter of the first coupling section 202 may range from 1mm to 60mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the first coupling section 202 is 17.5mm.
[0032] The second coupling section 204 is provided towards a second end 110b of the tip 110 configured to couple with the die 150. The second coupling section 204 may be threaded, or semi-threaded, or smooth, etc. In an embodiment, the second coupling section 204 has a smooth profile and is configured to couple with the first member 160 of the die 150 using a snap fit technique, thereby securing the die 150 with the tip 110. The dimension of the second coupling section 204 may correspond to the dimension of the first member 160. The diameter of the second coupling section 204 may range from 8mm to 68mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the second coupling section 204 is 24mm.
[0033] The locking section 206 is provided between the first coupling section 202 and the second coupling section 204 of the tip 110. The locking section 206 is configured to provide an engaging surface for a tool, allowing for assembly, disassembly, or adjustment of the assembly 100 with the spider head. The locking section 206 may have various shapes, such as polygonal, cuboidal, etc or combination thereof. Further, the locking section 206 may include a grooved, or knurled surface or combination thereof, ensuring a secure grip for tools such as wrenches, pliers, or other mechanical gripping instruments. The shape of the locking section 206 facilitates controlled torque application during installation or removal, enhancing the usability and reliability of the assembly 100. The dimension of the locking section 206 may depend on the requirement of the assembly 100. In an embodiment, the diameter of the locking section 206 may range from 13mm to 73mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the locking section 206 is 29mm.
[0034] The tip 110 includes a longitudinal hole 208 that extends from the first coupling section 202 to the second coupling section 204 of the tip 110. The longitudinal hole 208 is configured to provide a passage for airflow, enabling controlled air dynamics within the assembly 100. The dimensions and cross-sectional profile of the longitudinal hole 208 may vary based on the required flow rate and pressure specifications, optimizing the performance of the assembly 100. The dimension of the tip 110 may depend on the requirements of the assembly 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the tip 110 is 46mm. In an embodiment, the tip 110 is made of a high-strength, heat-resistant material capable of withstanding elevated temperatures and pressures associated with molten material processing. The material selection may include, but is not limited to, high-grade steel alloys, ceramic composites, or specially treated metals with enhanced thermal stability.
[0035] Fig. 3A depicts a perspective view, Fig. 3B depicts a front view, and Fig. 3C depicts a cross-sectional view of the first member 160 of the die 150 of the assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first member 160 is configured to facilitate the controlled flow of molten material during the manufacturing process. The first member 160 is coupled to the tip 110 through a press fit mechanism or snap fit mechanism, etc. The first member 160 may have a tubular or hollow structure, etc. In an embodiment, the first member 160 has a substantially tubular structure. The first member 160 includes a front section 302, a middle section 304, a tail section 306, and a flange 308. In an embodiment, these sections of the first member 160 form an integral unit of the first member 160. In an embodiment, the first member 160 is made of a high-strength, heat-resistant material capable of withstanding elevated temperatures and pressures associated with molten material processing. The material selection may include, but is not limited to, high-grade steel alloys, ceramic composites, or specially treated metals with enhanced thermal stability. The precise dimensions, angles, and structural attributes of the first member 160 can be tailored to suit specific industrial applications and performance requirements.
[0036] The first member 160 includes a central hole 312 extending longitudinally from the front section 302 to the tail section 306. The central hole 312 is configured to provide a passage for airflow. The central hole 312 is configured to receive the second coupling section 204 of the tip 110 to facilitate coupling between the tip 110 and the first member 160. In an embodiment, the diameter of the central hole 312 varies in each section. For example, at the front section 302, the diameter of the central hole 312 corresponds to the outer diameter of the second coupling section 204 of the tip 110. The diameter of the central hole 312 may depend on the requirement of the first member 160. The diameter of the central hole 312 at the tail section 306 may range from 0.5mm to 10mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the central hole 312 at the tail section 306 is 2.6mm.
[0037] The flange 308 is coupled to the front section 302. In an embodiment, the flange 308 is integrally formed on the front section 302. The flange 308 provides mechanical stability and enhances the coupling of the first member 160 with the second member 180. The flange 308 includes a plurality of openings 310 disposed circumferentially on the flange 308 and configured to allow a flow of the molten material. The openings 310 are configured to optimize material distribution while minimizing the risk of air entrapment or inconsistencies in material flow. The number, shape, and positioning of the openings 310 may vary based on specific design parameters and processing requirements of the assembly 100. In an embodiment, the flange 308 includes a stepped profile 314 at the periphery of the flange 308. The surface of the stepped profile 314 (Fig. 3C) is configured to facilitate the coupling between the first member 160 and the second member 180.
[0038] The middle section 304 is provided between the front section 302 and the tail section 306. The middle section 304 has an outer wall. The middle section 304 may be conical, cylindrical, or other similar structure. In an embodiment, the middle section 304 is a conical shape. The diameter of the middle section 304 gradually decreases from the front section 302 towards the tail section 306, creating a conical profile that facilitates the controlled compression and directional flow of molten material. This conical geometry optimizes the pressure distribution and minimizes turbulence, ensuring a uniform material flow. The dimension of the middle section 304 may depend on the requirement of the assembly 100. In an embodiment, the diameter of the middle section 304 at a first end may range from 12mm to 67mm, and the diameter of the middle section 304 at a second end may range from 0.8mm to 20mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the middle section 304 at the first end is 31mm, and the diameter of the middle section 304 at the second end is 5.2mm. The length of the middle section 304 may range from 24mm to 75mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the middle section 304 is 29mm.
[0039] The tail section 306 extends from the second end of the middle section 304 at least partially towards the end of a face of the die head. The tail section 306 has outer wall. The tail section 306 serves as the transition zone for directing the molten material towards the extrusion point 506 of the assembly 100. The shape of the tail section 306 is adapted to maintain a consistent flow path, preventing backflow or pressure irregularities that could compromise the final product quality. In an embodiment, the tail section 306 has a uniform cylindrical shape. The dimension (diameter, length, etc.) of the tail section 306 may depend on the requirement of the assembly 100. The diameter of the tail section 306 may range from 0.8mm to 20mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the tail section 306 is 5.2mm. The length of the tail section 306 may range from 2mm to 65mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the tail section 306 is 15mm.
[0040] Fig. 4A depicts a perspective view and Fig. 4B depicts a cross-sectional view of the second member 180 of the die 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The second member 180 is coaxially aligned with and coupled to the first member 160 through a press fit mechanism or snap fit mechanism, etc., defining a first annular cavity 502 with the middle section 304 of the first member 160 followed by a second annular cavity 504 with the tail section 306 of the first member 160. The second member 180 may have a tubular or hollow structure, etc. In an embodiment, the second member 180 has a substantially tubular structure. The second member 180 includes a cavity 400 extending longitudinally through the entire length of the second member 180. The cavity 400 is configured to direct the molten metal towards the extrusion point 506 of the assembly 100. The cavity 400 includes a first section 402, a second section 404, and a third section 406. In an embodiment, these sections form a single cavity 400 of the second member 180. In an embodiment, the second member 180 is made of a high-strength, heat-resistant material capable of withstanding elevated temperatures and pressures associated with molten material processing. The material selection may include, but is not limited to, high-grade steel alloys, ceramic composites, or specially treated metals with enhanced thermal stability. The precise dimensions, angles, and structural attributes of the second member 180 can be tailored to suit specific industrial applications and performance requirements.
[0041] The first section 402 is adapted to receive the stepped profile 314 of the flange 308 of the first member 160. The diameter of the first section 402 may correspond to the diameter of the stepped profile 314 of the flange 308. The first section 402 may have a threaded, semi-threaded, or smooth profile, etc. In an embodiment, the first section 402 has a smooth surface configured to mate with a surface of the stepped profile 314 to facilitate coupling between the first member 160 and the second member 180 using snap fit, screw, welding, etc. This configuration retains the second member 180 coaxially aligned. In an embodiment, in the first section 402, the cavity 400 is coupled to the stepped profile 314 of the flange 308 using a snap fit, ensuring a stable connection that prevents misalignment and enhances structural stability during operation.
[0042] The second section 404 is provided between the first section 402 and the third section 406 of the cavity 400. The second section 404 has a wall. The second section 404 may be conical, cylindrical, or similar structures. In an embodiment, the second section 404 has a conical shape. The diameter of the second section 404 gradually decreases from the first section 402 towards the third section 406, creating a conical profile that facilitates the controlled compression and directional flow of molten material. In an embodiment, the second section 404 of the cavity 400 and the middle section 304 of the first member 160 have a conical profile corresponding to each other. This conical geometry optimizes the pressure distribution and minimizes turbulence, ensuring a uniform material flow. The dimension of the second section 404 may depend on the requirement of the assembly 100. The diameter of the second section 404 at a first end may range from 29mm to 84mm, and the diameter of the second section 404 at a second end may range from 1mm to 30mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the second section 404 at the first end is 48mm, and the diameter of the second section 404 at the second end is 6.8mm. The length of the second section 404 may range from 3mm to 68mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the second section 404 is 12mm.
[0043] The third section 406 extends from the second end of the second section 404 at a partial length towards the extrusion point 506 of the assembly 100. The third section 406 has a wall. The third section 406 serves as the transition zone for directing the molten material toward an extrusion point 506 of the assembly 100. The shape of the third section 406 is adapted to maintain a consistent flow path, preventing backflow or pressure irregularities that could compromise the final product quality. In an embodiment, the third section 406 has a uniform cylindrical shape. In an embodiment, the third section 406 of the cavity 400 and the tail section 306 of the first member 160 have a cylindrical profile corresponding to each other. The dimension of the third section 406 may depend on the requirement of the assembly 100. The diameter of the third section 406 may range from 1mm to 30mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the third section 406 is 6.8mm. The length of the third section 406 may range from 3mm to 68mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the third section 406 is 12mm.
[0044] An embodiment of the assembly of the first member 160 and the second member 180 is described. The second member 180 is coaxially aligned with and coupled to the first member 160 as described earlier. The cavity 400 of the second member 180 is configured to receive and secure the first member 160. Once the first member 160 is seated, the first annular cavity 502 is formed between the outer wall of the middle section 304 of the first member 160 and the wall of the second section 404 of the cavity 400. Further, the second annular cavity 504 is formed between the outer wall of the tail section 306 of the first member 160 and the wall of the third section 406 of the cavity 400 (as shown in Fig. 5). In an embodiment, the first annular cavity 502 has a conical shape and the second annular cavity 504 has a cylindrical shape. The width of the first annular cavity 502 gradually decreases from the front section 302 to the tail section 306 of the first member 160. The width of the second annular cavity 504 corresponds to the thickness of the tube.
[0045] These annular cavities 502, and 504 are configured to direct the received molten material in a controlled manner, optimizing pressure distribution and minimizing turbulence to ensure uniform extrusion. The conical geometry of the middle section 304 and the second section 404 gradually compresses and directs the molten material, enhancing flow consistency and reducing the risk of defects. The tail section 306 of the first member 160, along with the third section 406 of the cavity 400, serves as the final transition zone for directing the molten material toward the extrusion point 506 of the assembly 100, forming a tube, specifically a medical tube.
[0046] In an embodiment, the outer and inner diameters of the extruded tube are primarily influenced by the structural configuration of the first member 160, the second member 180, the airflow through the longitudinal hole 208 of the tip 110 and the central hole 312 of the first member 160. The second annular cavity 504 is configured to define the thickness of the extruded tube. The first and second annular cavities 502, 504 regulate the volume of molten material flowing around the first member 160, ensuring that the tube walls are formed with precise and uniform thickness. Additionally, the internal diameter of the tube is controlled by the air passage created by the coaxial alignment of the longitudinal hole 208 in the tip 110 and the central hole 312 in the first member 160 (as shown in Fig. 5). The airflow through these holes generates internal pressure that shapes and maintains the inner lumen of the tube during extrusion by adjusting the air pressure. The inner diameter of the tube can be finely tuned to meet the required specifications. This integrated design, combining the second annular cavity 504 for outer diameter control and the regulated airflow for inner diameter formation, enables the precise manufacturing of medical tubes with consistent wall thickness and dimensional stability. The optimized flow paths ensure minimal turbulence and pressure fluctuations, contributing to high-quality extrusion with improved mechanical properties and functional reliability.
[0047] In an embodiment, the tip 110, the first member 160, and the second member 180 are pre-fitted to form the assembly 100.
[0048] Fig. 6A depicts a perspective view, Fig. 6B depicts an exploded view, and Fig. 6C depicts an exploded view of the extrusion die 600 with a head closure plate 650 and a die head heater 660, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The extrusion die 600 includes the tip and die assembly 100, a spider head 602, a head 604, the head closure plate 650, and the die head heater 660, all of which are configured to work together to facilitate precise extrusion of the medical tube. The tip and die assembly 100 serves as the core extrusion component, guiding and shaping the molten material into the desired tubular form.
[0049] The assembly 100 is removably coupled to the spider head 602, allowing for convenient disassembly and maintenance. The spider head 602 acts as an intermediary structure, distributing material flow evenly while supporting the alignment and positioning of the die assembly. The spider head 602 is securely coupled to the head 604, which forms the main structural housing of the extrusion die 600 and provides a controlled extrusion environment for the molten material.
[0050] The head closure plate 650 and the die head heater 660 are positioned at the front of the extrusion die 600 and are coupled to both the assembly 100 and the head 604. This plate 650 serves multiple functions, including sealing the extrusion system to prevent material leakage, maintaining uniform pressure distribution, and ensuring consistent alignment of internal components. The configuration of the head closure plate 650 and the die head heater 660 contributes to the stabilization of material flow, minimizing turbulence and promoting uniform extrusion characteristics. Through this structural integration, the extrusion die 600 ensures controlled molten material flow, optimized pressure regulation, and precise formation of the extruded tube. The removable coupling of the components allows for easy maintenance, quick replacement, and enhanced adaptability for various extrusion requirements
[0051] The assembly offers several advantages in the extrusion process, particularly for medical tube manufacturing. The assembly ensures uniform material flow, reducing turbulence and minimizing defects such as air entrapment and uneven wall thickness. The annular cavities of the assembly optimize pressure distribution, enhancing extrusion consistency and maintaining structural integrity of the tube. Additionally, the coaxial alignment of the first and second members provides a stable and controlled pathway for molten material, preventing backflow and ensuring smooth extrusion. The longitudinal hole of the tip and the centre hole of the first member enable precise control over the inner diameter of the tube by regulating airflow, allowing for customization of lumen size based on application requirements. The design of the assembly not only enhances production reliability but also contributes to improved mechanical properties and performance of the extruded medical tubes.
[0052] The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention is/are used. , Claims:We Claim:
1. An assembly (100) for extruding a tube, the assembly (100) comprising:
a. a tip (110) configured to be removably coupled to a head;
b. a die (150) coaxially aligned with and coupled to the tip (110), the die (150) comprising;
i. a first member (160) including a front section (302), a middle section (304), a tail section (306), and a flange (308), the flange (308) coupled to the front section (302) and including a plurality of openings (310) configured to allow a flow of the molten material; and
ii. a second member (180) coaxially aligned with and coupled to the first member (160) defining a first annular cavity (502) with the middle section (304) of the first member (160) followed by a second annular cavity (504) with the tail section (306) of the first member (160);
iii. wherein the first annular cavity (502) and the second annular cavity (504) are configured to direct the received molten material towards an extrusion point (506) of the assembly (100), thereby forming a tube.
2. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tip (110) comprises:
a. a first coupling section (202) at a first end (110a) of the tip (110);
b. a second coupling section (204) at a second end (110b) of the tip (110) adapted to couple with the first member (160); and
c. a locking section (206) provided between the first coupling section (202) and the second coupling section (204), and the locking section (206) being configured to provide an engaging surface to a tool.
3. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the engaging surface of the locking section (206) has a polygonal shape, a cuboidal shape, or a combination thereof.
4. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the engaging surface of the locking section (206) has a grooved surface, a knurled surface, or a combination thereof.
5. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
a. the tip (110) comprises a longitudinal hole (208) extending from the first coupling section (202) to the section coupling section (204),
b. the first member (160) comprises a central hole (312) extends longitudinally from the front section (302) to the tail section (306),
c. wherein the longitudinal hole (208) and the central hole (312) fluidically coupled and are configured to provide a passage for airflow.
6. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein width of the first annular cavity (502) gradually decreases from the front section (302) to the tail section (306) of the first member (160).
7. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flange (308) has a stepped profile (314) at the periphery of the flange (308), the cavity (400) includes a first section (402) configured to received and engage with stepped profile (314).
8. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
a. the first annular cavity (502) is formed between an outer wall of the middle section (304) of the first member (160) and wall of a second section (404) of the cavity (400). and
b. the second annular cavity (504) is formed between an outer wall of the tail section (306) of the first member (160) and a wall of a third section (406) of the cavity (400).
9. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second section (404) of the cavity (400) and the middle section (304) of the first member (160) have a conical profile corresponding to each other.
10. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the third section (406) of the cavity (400) and the tail section (306) of the first member (160) have a cylindrical profile corresponding to each other.
11. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein width of the second annular cavity (504) corresponds to thickness of the tube.
12. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first annular cavity (502) has a conical shape.
13. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tip (110), the first member (160), and the second member (180) are pre-fitted to form the assembly (100).