Application of Iterative Learning Control to MoldFlow Simulations of a Thermoplastic Injection Molding Process

This study uses iterative learning control (ILC) in conjunction with simulations using MoldFlow. The objective is to apply iterative learning control theory as a predictive model of a thermoplastic injection molding process.;Iterative learning control shifts the weld line to some specified desirable location using MoldFlow as a simulator. The deviation between the simulated to the desired weld line location is feedback to modify the input for the next iteration.;To ensure that the MoldFlow simulator results are comparable to the actual experimental models, a simple procedure of parametric curve-fit is used to compensate for the inherent modeling inaccuracies in the MoldFlow simulator. With ILC and MoldFlow, it is then possible to located weld line in same desirable locations with the direct iterative uses of an injection molding machine, thereby resulting in significant saving in time and materials.