Simulation and optimization of the stretch blow molding process

In this work, a new Computer Aided Engineering method was developed to predict optimal design and process conditions for stretch blow moulded bottles, minimizing the cost associated with the design of a new container. The proposed approach evaluates final product characteristics by process numerical simulations in a user friendly environment. The implemented algorithm seeks for the optimal conditions in terms of preform geometry and operating parameters, subjected to process and design constraints. Special attention was devoted to material characterization, obtained by simple and inexpensive instruments, and to the material model implementation, in order to improve results accuracy. For the process simulations commercial general purpose numerical codes were used. With reference to an industrial case study, the predicted optimization results were compared to the experimental outcomes to assess the validity and the robustness of the proposed approach.