• There are many key software and technologies used in the mold industry, such as design software, programming software, simulation software, CNC machining and injection molding.

• These technologies are being continuously improved which contributes to the better quality, efficiency and better developments in other aspects of mold manufacturing.

Several software technologies are necessary to effectively handle mold manufacturing challenges. Here are some of the best software technologies that perfectly meet the needs of the mold industry, which plays an important role in the manufacturing ecosystem.

Computer-aided design (CAD) software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD or CATIA allows designers to create accurate 3D models. These tools help designers visualize and simulate mold designs before production. They help identify potential problems and optimize designs for manufacturability. Topology Optimization technology (analysis of structural patterns by specifying various conditions in the design such as force or clamping points in order to get the most efficient workpiece) puts emphasis on design by creating 2D and 3D simulation models before putting them to actual production.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software such as Mastercam or Autodesk CAM translates CAD designs into instructions for computer-controlled machines (CNC). CAM software creates tool paths, calculate machining time and optimize cutting strategies to improve efficiency and accuracy during the production process.

Computer-aided engineering (CAE) software is used to simulate various engineering phenomena. CAE software such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) helps engineers analyze the structural integrity and performance of molds under various loading conditions by simulating stress, strain, and deformation. It allows designers to optimize mold designs for strength, durability, and reliability. It also helps engineers design, test, and optimize products in virtual environments which eliminates the need for physical prototypes.

Additive manufacturing (3D printing) software for rapid prototyping or production of complex mold components such as Ultimaker Cura or Formlabs PreForm are especially helpful. These tools are capable of slicing 3D models, creating support structures and optimizing print settings for different materials and printing technologies. They are also easy to use.

Product lifecycle management (PLM) software such as Siemens Teamcenter or PTC Windchill manages all aspects of the mold manufacturing process from initial design to production and maintenance. It helps facilitate collaboration, data control and management, ensures smooth communication and coordination between the multidisciplinary team.

Digital Twin technology creates a virtual replica of a physical mold. It allows manufacturers to monitor and optimize mold performance in real time. By combining sensor data and simulation models, Digital Twin helps cab help identify potential problems, anticipate maintenance requirements, and improve overall efficiency and productivity.

Cloud-based collaboration platforms such as Autodesk Fusion 360 or Onshape allow for convenient and seamless collaboration on mold design and manufacturing projects. These platforms offer centralized storage, version control (or editing control to manage changes made to source code and related files) and provides real-time collaboration tools. It allows team members to access and edit design files from anywhere, any time.

By leveraging these software technologies, mold makers can improve the design process, improved quality and accuracy, reduce time to introduce products to the market, and ultimately increase competitiveness in the industry.

Nowadays, manufacturers are integrating software and technology to provide convenient solutions for mold makers. For example, the HxGN Mold and Die series from Sweden-based Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, integrates CAD/CAM/CAE to make it possible to perform complex production tasks in a short time. This integration increases efficiency, reduces costs, and produces high-quality tooling for customers in various industries such as automotive, aerospace and beyond by providing insights into mold production and function through simulation tools to help determine feasibility. It also helps estimate mold making costs, analyzes plastic flow for the production of cost-effective and reliable molds, offers automated design and simulation of electro-machining electrodes and holders to simplify the creation of complex or difficult-to-machine mold features, manages multi-axis CAM programming capabilities, and reverse-engineers to efficiently create a solid model from scanned data. All of these features are especially useful for repairing or designing new molds, for example.

Software and technology for the mold industry are among technological wonders you will experience at InterMold Thailand 2024 – the 30th Edition of ASEAN's Most Comprehensive Exhibition on Mold & Die Components Making Technology during 19 - 22 June 2024 at BITEC, Bangkok. Also, if you are looking for the easiest wayt o catch up on the news about mold & die  industry, don't miss the future InterMold blogs where RX Tradex will regularly provide you with the latest industrial updates.

Sources

• https://bit.ly/CAD_Program_Sumipol
• https://hexagon.com/company/newsroom/press-releases/2023/hexagon-launches-mould-and-die-suite-empowering-teams-to-make-short-work-of-complex-manufacturing
• https://www.applicadthai.com/articles/ลดต้นทุน-คงความแข็งแรง-เ/#:~:text=Topology%20Optimization%20คือ%20การวิเคราะห์,รูปทรงแบบเดิมๆ