A geometric algorithm for automatic riser determination and shrinkage identification in directionally solidifying castings

Abstract

A geometric approach for analysis of castings is outlined and contrasted with physics-based simulations. The approach uses a linear-time algorithm to create an implicit geometry representation known as a distance field. Local maxima are extracted from the distance field using heuristic search logic to determine isolated heavy sections and hotspots. Unsound sections are determined by combining hotspot results with regions of constant distance-field value. Possible uses of the algorithm as an augmentation for application of physics-based solvers is explored. The algorithm is compared against a commercially available simulation software package.