The main goal of this project was to design, evaluate and validate an interbody fusion cage (IFC) and its injection mold by means of CAE/CAD and finite elements tools (Pro-ENGINEER, C-MOLD and ANSYS). IFC is employed as a supplement in the lumbar fusion. PEEK was chosen for IFC manufacture. Based on the interbody cage design, two cavities and a double opening ejection system were used in the mold. Molds with different cooling and feeding systems were designed and evaluated using modelator and simulation software (C-MOLD). Results indicate that the best mold has only one standard lateral gate and four cooling channels in each cavity. The cycle time was less than 36 sec. After a financial study, this project represents a feasible solution for Venezuelan patients.
