Assessing the Suitability of Freeform Injection Molding for Low Volume Injection Molded Parts: A Design Science Approach

Low-volume manufacturing remains a challenge, especially for parts that need to be injection-molded. Freeform injection molding (FIM) is novel method combines elements from direct additive (DAM) and (IM) resolve some of the challenges seen in low-volume molding. In this study, we use design science approach explore suitability FIM low volume injection-molded parts. We provide an overview benefits limitations traditional IM discuss how DAM indirect (IAM) methods, such as soft tooling FIM, can address existing drawbacks short series production. A set different was identified assessed using science-based demonstrate incubate solution faced production with IM. This initial process innovation followed by refinement, involving optimization processes. Finally, “cross-case” analysis conducted framework context, intervention, mechanism outcomes generate insights about generalizability results. It concluded lead-times, start-up costs freedom versatility scalability allow manufacturers bring products market faster, more cheaply lower risk, maintain relevance these through easy customization adaptations once they have been launched.