Hey!  New Solidworks user here.  I am using solidworks to create patterns for an aluminum foundry.  I thought this would be a good place to ask a few questions:

First,  although sand casting involves sand molds, I am designing patterns, not molds.  I am curious if there is anyone I could talk with regarding the SW workflow in the creation of match plate patterns.    To better describe where I am at, I drew up a sample part that I need to turn into a pattern.

For those familiar with match plates and sand casting, you will be able to see where the parting line would be on this part.  It would be planar through the base and the would turn into a more complex surface as it bisects the 2 vertical supports and the splits the top "s shaped" rail.  For those that create match plate patterns on parts like this, what is your advice in how you create the surface for the match plate?

As far as the specifics of my match plate, it will be 1/2" aluminum.  I will mill out the pattern on a CNC and will mold and cast 4 copies do drop into the match plate( I have accounted for all the shrinkage factors).  The pattern inserts for the match plate will also be 1/2" to match up to the 1/2" aluminum plate.  Therefore, the perimeter of this pattern needs to be planar(most likely following the plane splitting the bottom base).  So I will need to transition the contoured parting surface of the other bodies back to that neutral parting surface.

So in summary, I am looking for someone with foundry pattern experience to give some insight on the creation of contoured parting surfaces and best practices for the creation match plate patterns.