Page 44 - MetalForming March 2019

Die Design and Simulation Software
simply defining the relative force to apply, faces can be set on the model affected by the pressure pad. This allows the material to flow based on the applied force on the pressure pad. And, users now can set constraints to simulate the effect of a uniformly distributed blankholder force. Now it is possible to define a friction value and the force value to be applied for the blanking phase. This leads to a more accurate blanking process, which provides additional support to the user during die design.
TST Tooling Software Technology: www.tst-software.com VISI: www.visicadcam.com
Streamlined Digital Process Chain
AutoForm R8
AutoForm Engineering has unveiled AutoForm R8, deliv- ering new features and enhancements to support customers in streamlining the digital process chain. The software, focusing on topics emphasized by users in a 32018 customer survey, is particularly beneficial for users working on topics related to progressive dies and springback compensation, as well as on parts produced from patchwork blanks, accord- ing to AutoForm officials.
AutoForm R8 enables users to engineer a feasible stamping process for patchwork blanks.
With improved strip layout definition, users can define the layout for a single or double part, and then quickly eval- uate and compare different nesting options. This software version allows for simple prediction of potential blank shape and nesting, the minimization of material usage, and the early prediction of part costs. In addition, the new feature for webs design enables users not only to use predefined shapes but also to model desired shapes with just a few commands.
AutoForm R8 also offers more options for springback compensation, allowing engineers to use real, as opposed to virtual, measurements for compensation. As compensation is based on arbitrary geometries, part simulation results are not required. As a result, tools can be compensated using
external data from various sources, such as measurement, hemming simulation or assembly simulation. This flexibility in sourcing data for springback compensation allows users to increase their use case coverage.
In addition, AutoForm R8 enables users to engineer a feasible stamping process for patchwork blanks, as simulation now can be used as a reliable means to estimate part forma- bility and to test various sizes and configurations. AutoForm: www.autoform.com
Expanded Use of Parametric Component Insertion Among Other Enhancements Logopress3 2019
Logopress AutoForm Group has implemented an often- requested enhancement to its SolidWorks-based Logopress3 die design software. Die designers now can use their Insert a Set of Components command to quickly insert a config- urable set of components along with all holes and openings in all affected plates. For example, they can insert Standard Lifters Pilot Assemblies simply by selecting various options from dropdown lists and selecting the position(s) in the model where they want to insert the components. The moment the components are inserted, the program auto- matically populates the correct supplier name and part number into a special Bill of Materials that contains only standard catalog components.
Users also can insert a combination of custom-manufac- tured components along with their related standard-catalog components. A configurable bar lifter along with springs and shoulder bolts could be inserted, as could keeper blocks along with their screws and dowels. Also, users can create their own Set of Components, by following the company’s tutorial within the Logopress3 help file, and easily customize an existing Set
42 MetalForming/March 2019
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The Logopress3 Insert a Set of Components command can quickly insert a configurable set of components such as pilot lifter assemblies or bar lifters along with all holes and openings in all affected plates.