Patent ID: 8417365

Claim:
A system, comprising: an encoding module that generates a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part, that modifies the 3D model to include a 3D structure, and that generates a computer-aided design (CAD) file based on the modified 3D model; and a decoding module that determines whether the CAD file includes the 3D structure, that authorizes operation of analysis software on the CAD file when the CAD file includes the 3D structure, and that prohibits operation of the analysis software when the CAD file does not include the 3D structure, wherein the decoding module modifies the CAD file by adding molding features relating to a casting process during a period before authorizing operation of the analysis software on the CAD file, and executes the analysis software on the modified CAD file, wherein the analysis software includes finite element analysis (FEA) of at least one of temperature and flow of liquid metal during the casting process.