<<< Stage 2: Design optimisation
Tooling review
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Figure 15
After an initial meeting with the toolmaker sufficient information was available for them to create an accurate tooling program from which tecni-form produced their version for the customer which included sampling, as illustrated in figures 14 and 15.
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Figure 17
The toolmaker then created the models of the various parts of the tool using Delcam Powershape and supplied tecni-form with IGES files for them to review the design. As tecni-form have extensive experience of IGES from this system they used Delcam PS-Exchange to view the files rather than using their cad systems, as illustrated by figures 16 to 26.
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Figure 19
A benefit of using 3-D CAD which is sometimes overlooked is the ability to verify tooling designs fully before any physical work is carried out on the tooling, in this case the amendments were relatively minor consisting of the following:
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Figure 23
- Changes to the method of clamping the side cores on both tools
- A change to the position of the alignment dowels and bushes and the lever points for the cover tool
- Revision of the strengthening webs on the top half of the cover tool
- Fabrication for the spigot section of the cover tool to reduce the amount of stock removal and therefore reduce cost and lead-time.
tecni-form were then able to give approval for tooling manufacture which in the case of the cover tool was to be directly CNC machined from aluminium billet and for the turret tool from aluminium castings produced from CNC machined patterns.
Figure 24
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Figure 26
A look around the tecni-form website The tecni-form website is designed to be a comprehensive resource for Industrial designers.
