Stratoconception Tooling for Fluid Circuit Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing parts with fluid circuits, such as those used in plastics processing and foundry, face challenges in efficiently transferring fluids through the part's wall from the interior to the exterior, often relying on slotted filters or micro-holes which can be inefficient and prone to fluid flow issues.
Innovation Solution
The Stratoconception process is applied to create a part with integrated fluid circuits by subdividing the tool into layers forming channels that allow fluid transfer from the molding cavity to the exterior, using a supply and diffusion part with adjustable geometry and support zones to optimize fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If slotted filters or micro-holes are used for fluid transfer, then fluid transfer function is provided, but fluid flow efficiency deteriorates and pressure losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into multiple layers (first layer, second layer, intermediate layer) with fluid transfer channels distributed across different levels. This segmentation allows fluid to transfer through multiple pathways simultaneously, reducing pressure losses while maintaining reliable fluid transfer function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional surface-level micro-holes to three-dimensional channels extending through the tool wall thickness. By adding the dimension of depth and creating interconnected channels across multiple layers, fluid transfer efficiency is dramatically improved with reduced pressure losses.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional drilling methods are used for fluid circuits, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Fluid transfer channels are incorporated into the tool design from the beginning, integrated into the layer structure before final assembly. This preliminary integration allows channels to be formed with precise geometries during layer fabrication rather than requiring subsequent drilling or machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the manufacturing approach from post-fabrication drilling to pre-fabrication channel formation within layers. By altering when and how channels are created (during layer production rather than after tool assembly), manufacturing precision is significantly improved while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular layer assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fluid circuits are added to tools, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid transfer channels are merged with the tool structure itself, forming an integrated system where channels are part of the tool wall rather than separate components. This combining of fluid circuit functionality with the existing tool layers adds versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The layered structure with integrated channels serves multiple functions: structural support, fluid transfer, and potential filtration. By designing layers that perform multiple functions simultaneously, the tool gains versatility while avoiding the complexity of separate dedicated components for each function.
4Device complexity
If conventional fluid transfer methods are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to longer cycle times
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate layer is specifically designed with fluid transfer channels at critical locations where fluid evacuation or distribution is needed. This localized optimization of fluid transfer capability accelerates specific processes (such as drying or cooling) without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire tool structure, thereby improving productivity while maintaining overall simplicity.
Data Source
Figure 1~16c
Figure 7a~15
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the production of a part having fluid conduits or channels extending therethrough, such as, but not exclusively, for the production of a mould comprising channels or conduits for the circulation and/or transfer of a fluid from the moulding section to the non-moulding section and vice versa. The invention is characterised in that the part is designed and produced using a Stratoconception® method which is based on a principle by which the part is decomposed along a set of interlayer planes (Pi) into a succession of layers (...6i, 6i+1) which, once assembled, form the part. The invention is also characterised in that channels (2) are provided at the different interlayer planes (Pi) for the passage of a fluid through the part (1). The invention also relates to the parts thus obtained.