Design for Injection Molding: a Group-technology-based Approach

The design of parts for economical manufacture by injection molding is an important element in the broader design strategy known as design for manufacturing (DFM). This paper provides an insight into the process of developing a DFM model for injection molding and into the use of such a model in the context of part design. The costs due to the mold making, the costs due to processing and the costs due to material are determined by the features of the part design, and models are presented to demonstrate these dependent relationships. The knowledge for the model databases was gained through extensive interactions with mold makers and molders. An example of the use of the models is also presented and discussed in detail.