Optimization of Multi-gate Locations in Injection Molds Based on a Parallel Heuristic Algorithm

JIN Ruimin; HUANG Zhigao; CHENG Xuewen; ZHOU Huamin

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2026.09.023

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Journal of Netshape Forming Engineering ›› 2026, Vol. 18 ›› Issue (9) : 229-239. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2026.09.023

Advanced Manufacturing Technology and Equipment

Optimization of Multi-gate Locations in Injection Molds Based on a Parallel Heuristic Algorithm

JIN Ruimin¹, HUANG Zhigao^1,2,*, CHENG Xuewen³, ZHOU Huamin^1,2

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Abstract

The work aims to propose an efficient parallel heuristic optimization method to address the challenges of combinatorial explosion and low computational efficiency in multi-gate location optimization for injection molding. The “equivalent flow length” was employed as a rapid evaluation metric for filling balance and a flow-length calculation model based on the surface mesh of the molded part was established. A dual-layer optimization framework, combining “global exploration by a genetic algorithm” with local exploitation by a “hybrid hill-climbing algorithm”, was developed as the core of the proposed approach. By incorporating dynamic population control, dynamic diversity monitoring, adaptive genetic operators, intelligent neighborhood search, and a parallel computing mechanism, the method enabled efficient optimization of multi-gate locations. Experimental results for parts with mesh sizes ranging from 50 000 to 140 000 elements showed that, for three-gate optimization problems, the proposed method improved computational efficiency by approximately 30 times compared with existing algorithms. Under various working conditions, the optimized gate layouts achieved filling balance superior to or comparable with that obtained using professional CAE software. In conclusion, the proposed parallel heuristic algorithm effectively addresses the combinatorial optimization problem of multi-gate placement, substantially improves design efficiency while maintaining optimization quality, and demonstrates significant practical value for engineering applications.

Key words

injection molding / multi-gate optimization / equivalent flow length / surface mesh / parallel genetic algorithm / hybrid hill-climbing algorithm

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JIN Ruimin, HUANG Zhigao, CHENG Xuewen, ZHOU Huamin. Optimization of Multi-gate Locations in Injection Molds Based on a Parallel Heuristic Algorithm[J]. Journal of Netshape Forming Engineering. 2026, 18(9): 229-239 https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2026.09.023

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