Advice for pattern makers

A Pattern maker must have a firm grasp of spatial dimensions. He must have the precise mathematical genius of the modern machinist, remembering that "figures don't lie but liars figure!" He must have experiences in the foundry trades of moulding and coremaking and an understanding of the physical laws of fluidics and metallurgy. A Pattern maker must be able to hold in memory a complete plan of his own design. He must then break it into specific tasks and execute them one by one as they relate to the overall plan. He must be able to move about freely within his mechanical mind and maintain this high level of mobility without becoming lost or off track. He must not push aside the bizarre, uncommon, or ingenious, as these are his stock in trade. He must continually adjust and make accurate allowances for shrinkages, draft angles, finish stock and a host of other variables that he will be aware of from the plan he has made.

"Check twice - cut once," - good advice!

Pattern making is an honest trade. Mechanical parts either work or they do not. Appearance jobs must be handled carefully since beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. The customer must be closely consulted as it is he who pays the bill. The best information the pattern maker can have about his job is first and foremost- what does it do? One can't do justice on a Trioctal bullgear for a common old idiot picker if he don't know what it does! Many troubles and dollars have been saved by pattern makers looking up the ladder and offering a second chance.

By Gaylen D. Healzer
President JAG Engineering, Inc.
E-mail:gaylen@jagmold.com