Helical conformal channels for solid freeform fabrication and tool applications

摘要

A method for forming a tool such as a mold includes the steps of initially selecting a cooling channel configuration for the mold. The initial selected cooling channel is evaluated utilizing a computer program. The program analyzes whether there would be local hot or cool spots in the mold with the initially selected channel. The channel is then modified based upon this evaluation. The modified channel is again subjected to the evaluation. This iterative process continues until an acceptable cooling channel configuration is achieved. The invention utilizes a generally helical cooling channel.