Multi-objective optimization for multi-stage sequential plastic injection molding with plating process using RSM and PCA-based weighted-GRA

Abstract

The multi-stage sequential process with multi-objective is a complex problem to address as the decision made at a particular stage influences the subsequent stage and vice versa. In this article, the effects of input variables of plastic injection, mold, and different plating stages were investigated on different output responses, namely weldline, warpage, length, and various metal plating thicknesses. This paper investigates a real-time industrial data of manufacturing an automotive exterior part made of ABS material. A D-optimal experimental layout with 55 experiments was generated for eight input factors each at three levels. Nine different output responses in each experiment were normalized into a weighted grey relational grade using grey relational analysis coupled with principal component analysis. The solutions obtained by the analysis of variance on weighted grey relational grade, and by the desirability analysis of D-optimal were compared and validated. The confirmation experiments recorded an average improvement in cumulative process outputs as 40.56% by grey relational analysis and 38.50% by desirability analysis.