ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the practical design of features which can be readily incorporated into injection-moulded thermoplastics products. It examines how to design efficient structures which have good stiffness per unit mass. The chapter discusses the role of internal stresses in products. It discusses a range of examples where the design can tailor the process or the product to perform in the most efficient and desirable way. The chapter indicates a number of fields where the computer can help, and discusses the need to understand the underlying processes and theory in order to appreciate their results to their proper value. Injection-moulded elements can contain integrated features, which may decrease considerably the number of parts needed and simplify the mounting procedure and thus reduce costs. Adhesive joints can be used for both thermoplastics and thermosets.
