The Optimization of Injection Molding Processes Using Design of Experiments PrOblEM

PrOblEM Manufacturers have three primary goals: 1) produce goods that meet customer specifications; 2) improve process efficiency in cycle times, labor cost and energy consumption; 3) increase process robustness by reducing sensitivity to small changes in process or material parameters. To meet these goals, manufacturers often employ one-variable-at-a-time investigations to construct models relating independent process parameters to product quality. The models are used to devise iterative process modifications that lead to a process having a reasonable trade-off between process efficiency and product quality. Unfortunately, this method of process development does not explicitly test the robustness of the process.