Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system that establishes a framework for continuous collection, recording, and centralized storage of critical data across multiple stages of the investment casting process, thereby ensuring real-time access and management of data, facilitating improved decision-making and operational efficiency among stakeholders.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Investment casting (IC), also known as lost-wax casting, is a time-honored manufacturing process that has roots in ancient jewelry making and idol crafting. This method involves creating a wax pattern, which is then encased in a ceramic shell. Once the shell hardens, the wax is melted away, leaving a precise cavity for molten metal. Historically, this technique allowed artisans to produce intricate designs with fine details, making this ideal for ornamental pieces. However, as industrial needs evolved, so did investment casting, transforming it into a manufacturing process capable of producing complex components with high precision and excellent surface finishes.

[0003] Today, investment casting is widely used across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. The ability to create complex geometries and intricate features without the need for extensive machining reduces material waste and production time. Modern advancements in materials and technology have enhanced the process, enabling manufacturers to cast metals like titanium, steel, and nickel alloys, which are essential for high-performance applications. The resulting castings are not only lightweight and strong but also exhibit exceptional dimensional accuracy, which is critical in sectors where safety and reliability are paramount.

[0004] Moreover, investment casting facilitates the production of parts with tighter tolerances than traditional methods, which is increasingly important in industries that require high-performance components. The process also allows for the integration of multiple features into a single casting, simplifying assembly and reducing overall costs. As a result, investment casting continues to play a crucial role in contemporary manufacturing, bridging the gap between artisanal craftsmanship and industrial efficiency while meeting the demanding requirements of modern applications. Its rich history and continued innovation exemplify the enduring relevance of this remarkable process in today’s economy.

[0005] Traditional methods of investment casting, while historically significant and effective for producing intricate designs, come with several drawbacks that limit their application in modern manufacturing. The process typically involves creating wax patterns, which are then coated with a ceramic material to form a shell. One of the primary challenges is the labor-intensive nature of this technique, as each pattern is carefully crafted and assembled, leading to increased production times. Additionally, the use of wax introduces complexities, for instance, the patterns are susceptible to deformation or damage during handling or when subjected to high temperatures during the shell hardening process.

[0006] Another significant drawback is the environmental impact associated with wax removal and shell production. The melting of wax and the disposal of waste materials create environmental concerns that modern industries are increasingly eager to mitigate. Furthermore, traditional investment casting is limited in terms of the types of metals that are used while this excels with certain alloys this is not suitable for others that require higher melting points or specialized properties. This limitation restricts the range of applications and industries that effectively utilize this method.

[0007] US5072770A discloses about a method of making an investment casting by forming a pattern which has the shape of the part which is to be made and forming from the pattern a mold of elastomeric (rubber) material which has a cavity which has the shape of the of the part or casting to be made. Liquid aqueous (water) material is poured into the mold cavity and the mold is cooled so that the material is frozen (ice) to form a solid temporary pattern having the shape of the part. The temporary pattern is coated or invested with ceramic material to form a solid shell about the temporary pattern. The solid temporary pattern is melted and the resulting aqueous material evacuated from the shell to form a cavity which has the shape of the part or casting. The shell cavity is filled with molten metal which is allowed to solidify to form the casting which is removed from the shell. Although, US’770 discloses about an invention that relies on a temporary ice pattern introduces challenges related to freezing and thawing cycles, which affect the dimensional accuracy and integrity of the mold. Also, the process leads to inefficiencies in production time, as the cooling and solidification steps prolong cycle times.

[0008] US7900685B2 discloses about an investment casting procedure using microwave energy as the heat source virgin wax models are attached to a spree of wax-type pattern material incorporating a susceptor, the spree having a pour cup also of a wax-type pattern material, the pour cup material having a higher percentage of the susceptor than the material of the spree. In use the pour cup will melt first and the spree second, unblocking the path of the virgin wax so that its expansion will not crack ceramic with which it has been coated. Though, US’685 discloses about an invention that utilizes microwave energy for melting virgin wax models, but this method is limited by the need for specific materials that incorporate susceptors, which are not readily available or compatible with all wax types.

[0009] Conventionally, many methods are available for investment casting operations. However, the cited inventions rely on a temporary pattern that undergoes freezing and thawing, potentially compromising dimensional accuracy and increasing production cycle times due to the cooling and solidification processes. Also, other method utilizes specific materials that require precise energy sources, which complicate the casting process and introduce variability in melting times. These complexities lead to inconsistencies in the final product quality and longer production durations.

[0010] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to leverage monitoring and data analytics capabilities to enhance investment casting process. The developed investment casting monitoring system needs to address the challenges in the existing methods by providing real-time data capture and analysis across all stages of production. By continuously monitoring critical parameters, the developed system should also ensure greater precision and consistency in the casting process, reducing the risk of defects and inefficiencies.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0012] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that establishes a framework for continuous collection and recording of critical data across multiple stages of the investment casting process to ensure that all relevant parameters are documented for analysis, which facilitate improved decision-making and operational efficiency.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that aims to provide centralized storage, enabling real-time access and management of data from anywhere, thus enhancing collaboration among stakeholders involved in the investment casting process.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of ensuring that historical data remains accessible for audits, reviews, and future reference, thereby supporting quality assurance and compliance efforts within the investment casting operations.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that enhances traceability and accountability throughout the investment casting process, providing stakeholders with a reliable record of all actions and data.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that focuses on improving user experience by providing access to data insights, analytics, and operational metrics, which drive informed decision-making.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that aims to enhance transactional efficiency, ensuring that all financial exchanges related to operations are conducted securely and transparently within the ecosystem.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that focuses on streamlining the transactions and collaborations for reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency through automation.

[0019] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present invention relates to an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system that enhances traceability and accountability throughout the investment casting process by maintaining reliable records of all actions and data, thus supporting quality assurance, compliance efforts, and accessibility of historical data for audits and future reference.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system, comprises of an investment casting apparatus equipped with a data capturing module linked to a microcontroller, which records critical parameters related to wax pattern making, shell formation, and metal pouring. This recorded data is processed by a processor and stored in memory, enabling the execution of instructions that facilitate the streaming of this data to a cloud-based server for temporary storage. Subsequently, the data is transmitted to a blockchain server within a blockchain network, ensuring immutable storage that guarantees traceability and quality assurance. The system includes various modules for monitoring specific parameters, such as wax composition, shell properties, and alloy characteristics, while a communication module enables seamless data uploads. A user interface allows interaction with the blockchain, including a digital wallet for transactions and a code editor for crafting smart contracts. Furthermore, a virtual machine within the blockchain network translates these contracts into executable bytecode, thereby streamlining operational processes.

[0022] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system;
Figure 2 illustrates a flow diagram depicting workflow of the proposed system; and
Figure 3 illustrates a flow chart of smart contract associated with the proposed system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0025] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0026] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0027] The present invention relates to an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system that streamlines transactions and collaborations, ensuring secure and transparent financial exchanges related to operations by focusing on automation and reducing manual intervention, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency and improve user experience through access to insights and analytics.

[0028] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, illustrates a schematic diagram of an IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system and a flow chart depicting workflow of the proposed system.

[0029] The system disclosed herein includes an investment casting apparatus that is specifically developed to facilitate the precision and efficiency of the investment casting process. The investment casting apparatus is developed to produce intricate metal components with precision and efficiency. This process, often referred to as lost-wax casting involves several key components that work in conjunction to create high-quality castings. The apparatus consists of a wax injection system, a shell-building station, a dewaxing unit, a melting furnace, and a pouring station, all of which are integrated to streamline the workflow from the initial wax pattern creation to the final metal pour.

[0030] At the core of the investment casting apparatus is the wax injection system, which is responsible for creating the wax patterns that serve as the foundation for the casting process. This system includes a heated wax reservoir, which maintains the wax at an optimal temperature for injection. The wax is injected into molds through a high-pressure system, ensuring that the intricate details of the mold are captured accurately. The injection pressure and temperature are carefully controlled to minimize defects such as air pockets or incomplete patterns. Once injected, the wax patterns are cooled and solidified, after which they are removed from the molds. This phase is critical as it directly influences the quality and dimensional accuracy of the final casting.

[0031] Once the wax patterns are prepared, they are transferred to the shell-building station, where a ceramic shell is formed around them. This process begins with dipping the wax patterns into a slurry composed of fine sand and a binder. After dipping, the patterns are coated with sand to create a shell, which is then heated to harden the shell material. This step is repeated several times to build up the shell to the desired thickness in view of ensuring that this withstands the high temperatures during metal pouring. The shell-building process is vital for providing the necessary support and shape for the molten metal.

[0032] After the shell has been formed, the next step is dewaxing, where the wax patterns are removed to leave a hollow ceramic shell. This is accomplished using steam or heat in a specialized dewaxing unit. As the shell is heated, the wax melts and drains out, leaving behind a cavity that is an exact replica of the original wax pattern. This stage is crucial for ensuring that the shell is ready to receive the molten metal without any obstructions. Proper dewaxing also prevents contamination of the molten metal which lead to defects in the final product.

[0033] With the wax removed, the ceramic shell is then preheated in a furnace. This is done to eliminate any residual wax and to strengthen the shell before pouring the molten metal. The melting furnace, often an induction or electric furnace, is responsible for heating the metal alloy to its melting point. Temperature control is essential in this phase, as the molten metal is at the correct temperature to ensure fluidity and proper filling of the shell. The final component of the investment casting apparatus is the pouring station. Once the metal is melted, this is transferred to this station where the metal is poured into the preheated shell. This step requires careful handling to avoid splashing and to ensure that the metal flows smoothly into the mold cavity. The pouring process is performed manually or automatically, depending on the design of the apparatus.

[0034] The apparatus is equipped with a data capturing module that is integrated into its operational framework. The data capturing module monitor and record a variety of parameters that are crucial for different stages of the investment casting process, including wax pattern making and assembly, shell making and dewaxing, as well as preheating, melting, and pouring.

[0035] In the first stage that is wax pattern making and assembly, the apparatus captures data regarding material properties such as the chemical composition of the wax, its type, viscosity, and hardness. This information is vital as this directly influences the quality of the wax patterns produced. Parameters like melting temperature, injection pressure, and cooling conditions are monitored to ensure that the wax patterns are formed accurately and efficiently in view of minimizing defects and ensuring uniformity. The chemical composition of the wax is typically analyzed using techniques such as gas chromatography or Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). These methods allow for precise identification of the wax's constituents, ensuring that it meets the necessary specifications. The type of wax is determined by referring to manufacturer specifications or through physical property tests that examine characteristics such as density and melting point.

[0036] Other important parameters include the flash point and melting temperature, both of which are determined through standardized tests. The flash point is measured using a closed cup tester, which evaluates the temperature at which vapors ignite. The melting temperature is ascertained by heating the wax and observing the transition point often using a thermocouple for accurate temperature readings.

[0037] Process parameters, such as melting temperature of the wax, wax injection pressure, and wax injection time are monitored using pressure sensors and thermocouples integrated into the injection molding machinery. The cooling medium for the wax patterns is assessed based on its thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity, measured using calorimeters. Environmental conditions, like temperature and humidity of the wax injection room are tracked using digital hygrometers and thermometers to ensure optimal processing conditions. Lastly, the method of wax injection and pattern removal are often standardized and documented procedures that are validated through process audits and performance metrics.

[0038] As the process progresses to shell making and dewaxing, the data capturing module continues recording various parameters related to the shell materials and processes. The parameters include the type of shell particles used, the mixture of slurry, and the properties of binders and additives. The module also tracks the temperature and humidity of the coating environment, as these factors significantly impact the adhesion and strength of the shell. By recording data during this stage, the system helps to ensure that the shells produced are robust enough to withstand the subsequent melting and pouring processes.

[0039] When it comes to shell making and dewaxing, the parameters involved are equally diverse and critical. The type of shell particles is generally defined by the specifications of the materials sourced from suppliers, while the mixture of slurry is formulated based on precise ratios of shell materials, binders, and additives. The composition is analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) to identify mineral phases and ensure consistency. The acidic nature of the slurry is measured using pH meters, which provide real-time data on the acidity levels, crucial for achieving desired bonding properties. The type of binder and additives used in the slurry are characterized by their material safety data sheets (MSDS) and confirmed through laboratory tests to verify their effectiveness in enhancing shell properties.

[0040] To evaluate the adhesiveness of the slurry, standard tests such as adhesion pull-off tests is conducted. Process parameters such as grain size of particles are measured using laser diffraction or sieve analysis, which allow for precise classification of the particle size distribution. The temperature and humidity of the coating room are monitored continuously with environmental sensors to maintain optimal conditions for shell formation. The viscosity of the slurry is similarly measured using viscometers, ensuring this is suitable for application. Handling of shells involves observational methods and metrics based on operator feedback to assess quality during the coating process. The number of coatings and their duration is tracked through production logs and timers, ensuring compliance with established protocols. The method of dewaxing and its duration are generally validated through standardized procedures that outline time and temperature requirements for effective wax removal.

[0041] In the next stages of investment casting such as preheating, melting, and pouring, the data capturing module monitors an array of material and process parameters essential for successful casting. These parameters include the chemical composition and thermal properties of the alloy being used, as well as the conditions under which melting occurs. Factors such as shell permeability, baking temperature, and pouring temperature are critical to achieving the desired characteristics in the final cast product. By continuously recording this data, the apparatus provides invaluable insights into the process dynamics, enabling operators to make real-time adjustments and optimize outcomes.

[0042] In the preheating, melting, and pouring phases, measuring parameters is crucial for achieving optimal casting conditions. Shell permeability is assessed using airflow tests that measure the ability of the shell to allow gas passage without obstruction in view of ensuring that this withstands the pressure during pouring. The hot strength of the shell is determined through mechanical testing, such as compressive strength tests performed at elevated temperatures. The chemical composition of the alloy is typically analyzed using spectroscopy techniques like atomic emission spectroscopy (AES) or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to ensure that this meets the required metallurgical standards. The melting temperature of the alloy is measured using thermocouples placed within the melting furnace, providing accurate real-time temperature readings.

[0043] Other critical material parameters include thermal contraction and thermal conductivity of the alloy which are evaluated using thermal analysis techniques like DSC and laser flash analysis, respectively. Density of the alloy is measured using a hydrometer or through Archimedes' principle, providing insights into material consistency. Process parameters such as the strength of the shell, shell baking temperature, and duration of shell baking are monitored using thermocouples and strength testing apparatuses. The degree of superheat is assessed by maintaining the alloy temperature above its melting point for a specified time, measured through precise temperature controls in the melting furnace. The type of melting furnace used also impacts these measurements, as different furnaces (induction, electric arc, etc.) have varied heating profiles.

[0044] The data capturing module is linked with a microcontroller that stores the collected data efficiently. This integration ensures that data is not only captured accurately but also made available for analysis and decision-making in a timely manner. The microcontroller serves as the central processing unit of the system in view of managing data flow and ensuring that all relevant information is recorded consistently throughout the investment casting process. By combining data capturing capabilities with intelligent processing, the investment casting apparatus significantly enhances the ability to monitor, analyze, and improve the quality and efficiency of investment casting operations.

[0045] The investment casting apparatus comprises of least one processor responsible for executing complex calculations and managing the various operations of the system. This processor runs executable instructions stored in memory, which dictate how the system function. The processor is developed to efficiently handle data input from the integrated data capturing module, ensuring that all relevant parameters are recorded accurately and promptly. The memory associated with the processor stores these instructions, along with interim data necessary for ongoing processes. By managing the flow of information and executing real-time data analytics, the processor enables the system to adapt to changing conditions in the investment casting process, thus optimizing performance and enhancing product quality. The memory architecture is structured to facilitate quick data retrieval, enabling rapid decision-making and operational adjustments.

[0046] The data capturing module continuously monitors and records various parameters essential to the investment casting process. This module is intricately linked to the apparatus, allowing this to gather real-time data related to multiple stages, including wax pattern making, shell making, dewaxing, preheating, melting, and pouring. For example, during the wax pattern making phase, the module tracks material parameters such as the chemical composition, viscosity, and melting temperatures of the wax. These parameters aids in ensuring the quality and consistency of the wax patterns produced. The module also captures process parameters like injection pressure, cooling conditions, and environmental factors, ensuring comprehensive data collection. This data recording is vital for enabling effective monitoring, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance throughout the investment casting process.

[0047] Once data is captured, the data is streamed to a cloud-based server, facilitating centralized data storage and accessibility. This cloud integration is essential for enhancing collaboration among various stakeholders involved in the investment casting process. The streaming capability ensures that data is transmitted in real-time, allowing for immediate analysis and monitoring. The cloud server is developed to hold the streamed data for a predetermined period, providing a reliable repository for historical data that is accessed for audits, performance evaluations, and process optimizations. By leveraging cloud technology, the system accommodates large volumes of data without compromising performance, ensuring that stakeholders have access to critical insights and analytics whenever needed.

[0048] To enhance data integrity and traceability, the system transmits recorded data to a blockchain server, where the data is stored in an immutable manner. This means that once data is recorded on the blockchain, the recorded data is not altered or deleted, providing a reliable and transparent record of all activities related to the investment casting process. This is particularly significant for quality assurance as this allows stakeholders to verify the authenticity and reliability of the data associated with each cast. The use of blockchain technology ensures that every transaction and change is documented, enabling thorough traceability from raw materials to finished products. This level of transparency is crucial for meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements, thereby instilling confidence among clients and stakeholders.

[0049] A communication module aids in linking the processor with the cloud-based server. This enables the seamless upload of data collected by the capturing module, ensuring that information is transmitted securely and efficiently. The communication module is developed to handle various protocols, allowing this to adapt to different networking environments and ensuring robust connectivity. By maintaining reliable communication channels, this module helps to facilitate real-time data sharing, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the system. The module supports the integrity of data transmission, employing encryption and security measures to safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access.

[0050] A user interface module allows users to interact with the monitoring system effectively. The interface is configured with a computing unit that presents data insights, analytics, and operational metrics in a user-friendly format, enabling operators to make informed decisions. The interface is developed to be intuitive, ensuring that users easily navigate through various functionalities, access historical data, and monitor real-time performance. This interaction is vital for identifying trends, diagnosing issues, and implementing corrective actions swiftly. The user interface also facilitates the input of parameters and settings, allowing for customization based on specific operational requirements and preferences.

[0051] To enhance transactional efficiency within the investment casting ecosystem, the system incorporates a digital wallet associated with the blockchain network. This wallet allows users to hold and transact a native token specific to the blockchain, facilitating financial operations related to investment casting. The digital wallet is developed to provide a secure platform for conducting transactions, ensuring that all exchanges are encrypted and protected against fraud. By enabling secure financial transactions, the digital wallet enhances operational fluidity, allowing stakeholders to execute payments, manage resources, and conduct trades seamlessly within the investment casting supply chain.

[0052] The system includes a code editor associated with the user interface module, enabling users to create and manage smart contracts. These self-executing agreements are tuned to automate various operational processes, facilitating transactions and collaborations between parties. The ability to draft smart contracts provides significant advantages, including reduced administrative overhead, increased operational efficiency, and minimized potential for disputes. Users specify terms and conditions, and once conditions are met, the smart contract executes automatically in view of streamlining workflows and enhancing trust among stakeholders (as illustrated in Fig.3).

[0053] To support the execution of smart contracts, the system integrates a virtual machine within the blockchain network. This virtual machine is responsible for converting user-defined contracts into bytecode, which is then deployed and executed on the blockchain. By providing this functionality, the virtual machine ensures that smart contracts are executed reliably and efficiently, enabling dynamic interactions within the investment casting ecosystem. The use of a virtual machine allows for complex logic to be implemented within contracts, facilitating sophisticated automated processes that enhance operational efficiency and adaptability in response to changing conditions.

[0054] The system is built upon a blockchain network based on the Tron platform. This decentralized network provides the necessary infrastructure for storing and managing data in a secure and transparent manner. By leveraging blockchain technology, the system benefits from enhanced security, traceability, and reliability. The Tron platform specifically offers high throughput and scalability, making this well-suited for handling the demands of industrial applications. The integration of blockchain technology not only strengthens the system's capabilities in terms of data integrity and traceability but also fosters a collaborative environment where stakeholders engage in secure transactions and data exchanges.

ADVANTAGES

• Enhanced Data Collection and Improved Traceability: The system captures comprehensive data throughout the investment casting process, allowing detailed analysis and optimization along with utilizing blockchain technology, the system ensures that all data is stored in the immutable manner, enhancing traceability and accountability in the casting process.

• Quality Assurance and Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of critical parameters helps maintain high-quality standards in wax pattern making, shell production, and alloy melting, reducing defects and improving product consistency. Also, the data streaming to the cloud-based server enables real-time access to process parameters, allowing for immediate adjustments and interventions when necessary.

• Predictive Maintenance: The historical data analysis help predict equipment failures, facilitating proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.

[0055] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the investment casting apparatus as disclosed in the invention is equipped with a data capturing module linked to a microcontroller for recording critical parameters related to wax pattern making, shell formation, and metal pouring. This data is processed by the dedicated processor, which executes instructions stored in memory. The recorded information is then streamed to the cloud-based server for temporary storage, ensuring easy accessibility. After the predetermined period, the data is transmitted to the blockchain server within the secure blockchain network, where this is stored immutably, guaranteeing traceability and quality assurance throughout the casting process. The system facilitates user interaction via the dedicated interface, allowing users to manage data, monitor casting parameters, and engage with the digital wallet for transactions involving the native blockchain token. Users write smart contracts using the code editor, which are converted into executable bytecode by the virtual machine within the blockchain network, streamlining operations and enhancing transparency.

[0056] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention , Claims:1) An IIoT enabled investment casting monitoring system, comprising:
i) an investment casting apparatus configured with a data capturing module incorporated with said investment casting apparatus, linked with a microcontroller, for recording data based on parameters relating to wax pattern making and assembly, shell making and dewaxing, and preheating, melting and pouring;
ii) at least one processor, and a memory, associated with said investment casting apparatus storing executable instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the steps of
a. recording data pertaining to said investment casting apparatus by means of said data capturing module, wherein said data is in accordance with parameters relating to wax pattern making and assembly, shell making and dewaxing, and preheating, melting and pouring;
b. streaming said recorded data to a cloud-based server;
c. holding said streamed data in said cloud-based server for a predetermined period of time; and
d. transmitting said data to one of the blockchain servers of a blockchain network to store said data in an immutable manner to ensure traceability and quality assurance of investment casting.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein parameters relating to wax pattern making and assembly comprises of material parameters including chemical composition of wax, type of wax, viscosity of wax, hardness of wax pattern, thermal contraction of wax pattern, flash point of wax and melting temperature of wax, and process parameters including melting temperature of wax, wax injection pressure and time, wax injection time, cooling medium for wax pattern, temperature and humidity of wax injection room, method of wax injection and method of pattern removal.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein parameters relating to shell making and dewaxing have material parameters of type of shell particles, mixture of slurry, acidic nature of slurry, type of binder, type of additives, adhesiveness of slurry, and process parameters including grain size of particles, temperature and humidity of coating room, viscosity of slurry, handling of shells, number of coating and their duration, method of dewaxing and duration of dewaxing.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein parameters regarding preheating, melting and pouring involve material parameters comprising shell permeability, hot strength of shell, chemical composition of alloy, melting temperature of alloy, thermal contraction and thermal conductivity of alloy, density of alloy, solidification time of alloy and process related parameters including strength of shell, shell baking temperature, duration of shell baking, degree of superheat for alloy and charge preparation time, type of melting furnace and pouring temperature, method of pouring, filling time and method of degassing.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a communication module linked with said processor, enables an upload of data to said cloud-based server.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user interface module configured with a computing unit linked with said blockchain server, enables said user to interact with said blockchain network.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a digital wallet associated with said blockchain network and accessible via said user interface module, is provided to facilitate holding and transacting of a token native to said blockchain network, for executing transactions relating to investment casting operations.

8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a code editor is and associated with said user interface module to enable a user to write smart contracts between two or more parties pertaining to operations related to investment casting.

9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a virtual machine incorporated with said blockchain network, to convert written smart contracts into bytecode, and deploy and execute said smart contracts.

10) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said blockchain network is based on Tron blockchain platform.