Page 21 - MetalForming Magazine May 2023

Spotlight on
Die-Development, Stamping-Process Software
The green line shows the result of ProgSim after running three iterations of Cut Optimizer before the cut edges fell within the 0.010-in. target deviation set by the user.
With AutoForm Assembly R10, users can optimize the assembly process and ensure the desired level of quality very early in the assembly process, say com- pany officials, prior to the start of production, ensur- ing dimensional accuracy of the entire BiW.
that these issues would have on the quality of the BiW assembly.
In practice, assembly equipment is adjusted continually in order to resolve dimensional deviations and their effects on production. With AutoForm Assembly R10, engineers can make these process adjustments virtually, allowing them to define which clamps and joints should be considered for shimming and teaching. By running multiple simulations, the software enables users to determine the optimal parameters that can be applied to resolve accuracy issues. When a solu- tion is found, the settings can be mir- rored in the physical process, elimi- nating the traditional and costly trial-and-error approach. The software also enables users to define and eval- uate a range of joining methods, employ plane and fillet welds, and define locations for glue.
Altair’s Inspire Form Features New Feasibility Module
The most recent releases of Altair’s Inspire Form (a new release is planned for late-spring 2023) include a new fea-
ProgSim module starts. Setup, run time and automatic blank development can take anywhere from minutes for a smaller die to a few hours for a larger die.
Once ProgSim begins to run the sim- ulation, automatic pressure-pad force adjustment occurs if ProgSim senses the pad backing off due to wrinkling, and provides feedback on the pad force as well as forming tonnage. It then pro- vides forming results such as wrinkles, splits and excessive thinning, using a strip layout created for use before
the actual die design begins. A new command, “Optimize the cutting punches used in the strip,” automatically updates the sketches of the cutting punches used in the die with tangent lines and arcs once design is underway. The user can view the results one increment at a time as the press closes, or the results can be played at various speeds through- out the press cycle. The form tool- ing can be shown or hidden in real time as the user views the simulation results.
AutoForm Assembly R10 Helps Optimize BiW Assembly
New from AutoForm is Auto- Form Assembly R10, loaded with features and enhancements that enable users to evolve their body-in-white (BiW ) assembly-process development.
AutoForm Assembly R10 allows for the evaluation of the assembly process from early fea- sibility through to production support, including process engineering and ini- tial tryout support. Users can import nominal CAD geometry in a range of formats, assign all single parts a suit- able material selected from an exten- sive material database, and define a range of alternative assembly process- es. They also can simulate a hemming process to better understand issues that may arise as well as the effects
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With AutoForm Assembly R10, users can optimize the assembly process and ensure the desired level of quality very early in the assembly process, say company officials, prior to the start of production, ensuring dimensional accuracy of the entire BiW.