Sonoplast

SONOPLAST is a Collaborative Project (CP) from the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), with a funding scheme as a small or medium-scale focused research for the benefit of SME's. It started on 1st June 2008. The project duration is 2 years.

Its main objective is the development and construction of the first ultrasounds moulding machine for the production of plastic parts in the micro and mini scale size. The development of the new machine will need the complementary production of a new concept of mould and plastic feeding system adapted to the physical principles of ultrasounds and mechanical features (kinematics) of the new moulding machine.

This will be achieved through the following subjects of study:

1. Study of the influence on the plastic melt rheology of the ultrasounds parameters. Determination of the most important process variables and their impact on the plastic melt behaviour.
2. Development of the ultrasound moulding machine mechanical concept.
3. Development of the new mould concept.
4. Development of the feeding system.
5. Development of the process control strategies and systems adapted to ultrasound moulding machine and implementation of the sensoring system needed. Process reliability.
6. Automatic handling of the micro molded parts and part quality reliability.
7. Monitoring of the evolution and matching of the developed technology and the market trends.