A multi-objective optimal approach to automated construction of sacrificial multi-piece molds

Sacrificial multi-piece molds can be used for producing complex parts. To obtain the optimal design of molds automatically, a multi-objective optimal approach is proposed. Mold pieces number, material utilization and partitioning area are taken as the objective functions, and the machinability of each mold piece is taken as constraint condition. Genetic algorithm (GA) is adopted to realize global optimization of partitioning process. Each mold piece in optimal scheme can be manufactured by milling and drilling operations, which reduce the tooling cost and shorten product cycle obviously. Using the proposed approach, mold design can be significantly automated for making complex parts.