Silicone, known for its flexibility, has notably influenced the manufacturing sector. Its versatility in being suitable for food- and non-food-grade applications is in high demand among various industries.
Introduction:
The Food-Safe Silicone used in creating our Silicone Bear Mold was specifically designed for a chocolate manufacturer. The client gave us only a reference mold used in the past, but without a CAD file, we had to begin the project from the beginning using just a sample.
Approach:
Our team reverse-engineered the sample through a 3D scan to create a CAD file.
Following the first stage, we modified the design based on the client's requirements, paying attention to essential elements such as:
- The Fine Profiles of the design
- Ensure the detailing
- Right Wall Thickness
- Right Hardness of Silicone
Also, to keep the silicone firm yet flexible so that the chocolates pop out without damaging the mold and design.
Product Development Strategy:
We made core and cavity out of steel and used Small Cutters for detailed profiling. EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) was used to polish the die. Renowned brand Food Safe Silicone raw material was used to make the molds. A lab test was also performed to ensure further assurance, and the Food Safe Silicone Report was provided to the client.
Challenges Faced
With no specific blueprint and just a sample from the customer, we turned to 3D scanning for accurate dimensions. EDM was used to cut intricate details and refine the design.
Conclusion:
This was quite an exciting project for us because of the reverse procedure we followed. This project involved evolving a design from the sample used in the past. We had to deconstruct the design for measurements and make modifications, which we at Krishani Product Development call Reverse Engineering. After many discussions and meetings, the client loved the perfect design. This project is a testament to our capability to create a product using unconventional engineering methods.
