SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPERATING AN INJECTION MOLDING MACHINE

A method of operating an injection molding machine includes translating a movable platen from a closed position to a part transfer position by overshooting the transfer position in an opening direction away from a stationary platen to an over-travel position, and then translating the moving platen back to the transfer position in a closing direction, opposite the opening direction. Movement of a take-out device towards an advanced position, in which the take-out device reaches between mold halves carried by the stationary and movable platens, occurs while the movable platen is moving between the over-travel and transfer positions, prior to coming to rest in the transfer position. When resting in the transfer position, the method includes transferring molded articles from a first mold section mounted to the movable platen to retained engagement on the take-out device reaching between the platens.