Publicação
Generative design for additive manufacturing of non-conventional moulding tools
| Resumo: | This dissertation explores the application of generative design (GD) combined with additive manufacturing (AM) for the development of non-conventional mould tools used in injection moulding. Traditional mould-making methods face significant challenges in producing complex geometries and optimizing cooling systems, which are crucial for efficient and high-performance manufacturing. GD, an algorithmic approach that creates optimized structures based on predefined parameters, and AM, which enables the fabrication of intricate designs, provide innovative solutions to these challenges. The research focuses on designing a mould tool that incorporates conformal cooling channels to enhance cooling efficiency and reduce cycle times. Through an iterative GD process, the mould tool was optimized for material usage, structural integrity, and production performance. AM was used to fabricate the designed mould, demonstrating its ability to produce complex geometries that traditional techniques cannot achieve. The results showed significant improvements in mould performance, particularly in cooling efficiency and material optimization, confirming the potential of GD and AM for industrial mould-making applications. However, challenges remain regarding the scalability and cost-effectiveness of these methods for largescale production. This work contributes to the growing body of knowledge on advanced mould-making technologies, providing a foundation for future research in sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes. |
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| Autores principais: | Martins, Gonçalo Campos |
| Assunto: | Generative design Additive manufacturing Injection moulding Mould tool fabrication Conformal cooling channels Sustainability Design generativo Fabricação aditiva Moldação por injeção Fabricação de moldes Canais de refrigeração conformados Sustentabilidade Engenharia e Tecnologia::Outras Engenharias e Tecnologias |
| Ano: | 2024 |
| País: | Portugal |
| Tipo de documento: | dissertação de mestrado |
| Tipo de acesso: | acesso aberto |
| Instituição associada: | Universidade do Minho |
| Idioma: | inglês |
| Origem: | RepositóriUM - Universidade do Minho |
| Resumo: | This dissertation explores the application of generative design (GD) combined with additive manufacturing (AM) for the development of non-conventional mould tools used in injection moulding. Traditional mould-making methods face significant challenges in producing complex geometries and optimizing cooling systems, which are crucial for efficient and high-performance manufacturing. GD, an algorithmic approach that creates optimized structures based on predefined parameters, and AM, which enables the fabrication of intricate designs, provide innovative solutions to these challenges. The research focuses on designing a mould tool that incorporates conformal cooling channels to enhance cooling efficiency and reduce cycle times. Through an iterative GD process, the mould tool was optimized for material usage, structural integrity, and production performance. AM was used to fabricate the designed mould, demonstrating its ability to produce complex geometries that traditional techniques cannot achieve. The results showed significant improvements in mould performance, particularly in cooling efficiency and material optimization, confirming the potential of GD and AM for industrial mould-making applications. However, challenges remain regarding the scalability and cost-effectiveness of these methods for largescale production. This work contributes to the growing body of knowledge on advanced mould-making technologies, providing a foundation for future research in sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes. |
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