Which feature helps ensure proper mold release by providing a taper?

The feature that helps ensure proper mold release by providing a taper is the draft angle. In manufacturing, particularly in the context of injection molding and similar processes, a draft angle is a slight angle on the vertical faces of a molded part that makes it easier to remove the part from the mold without causing damage to either the part or the mold itself. This taper reduces the friction between the part and the mold, which is crucial for a smooth release.

When a part is designed with a draft angle, it facilitates the movement as the part is ejected from the mold, particularly when forming complex shapes. A properly applied draft angle can significantly decrease the likelihood of sticking, which can lead to defects in the molded part, such as surface blemishes or breakage.

Other features like fillets and chamfers serve different purposes. A fillet is typically used for smoothing out sharp corners to reduce stress concentration and improve strength, while a chamfer is used to bevel edges for aesthetic purposes or to facilitate assembly but does not inherently assist in mold release. The term "pattern" generally refers to a model used to create molds rather than a feature that affects mold release directly. Therefore, the draft angle stands out as the key feature specifically designed for aiding in the effective release