Sheet metal processing with efficient design tools and 3D measurement

Forming Technologies (FTI) provides for online Sheet metal processing new functionalities for the virtual manufacturing in front. With the Forming suite Software enables the process simulation for sheet metal forming to be implemented more efficiently. CAD interoperability and Hexagon-3D scans. The forming suite enables manufacturers to better estimate the tool and material costs in sheet metal processing and to assess the design implementation.

Complex product changes can be avoided and the time to market can be reduced. Developers and toolmakers can work together productively and carry out virtual tests early on in the design process.

Apply changes to the test phase in CAD

During test phase are z. B. Tools for punching often changed by grinding and spotting before they are used productively. The original CAD construction then no longer correct. For the first time, 3D measuring systems from Hexagon can be integrated into the Formingsuite to quickly scan tools and record changes. Then the real production parameters are integrated back into the simulation. The scanned data are included in the calculation. The punching is validated.

Some manufacturers need in their Transfer presses two different shaped boards. These are with cycle conveyors, swiveltools and rotating stations. In this way, sheet metal of various formats and shaped blanks can be processed in one and the same press with a large press table.

Calculate and order bent parts and laser parts online

A new method simplifies setting up models for cost and tool optimization for processes with two individual ones Coils. Engineers save time by optimizing manufacturing concepts for sheet metal processing in the forming suite. In addition, as a basis for their design, they export the die matrix geometry from the step tool and the layout of the progressive tool directly into their CAD system.

With the new Sketch Web Tool, designers can quickly and precisely draw individual sheet metal shapes. The automatic and user-defined mesh refinement increases the model accuracy when cutting. When evaluating material utilization, design changes can automatically be applied to the opposite, symmetrical side of the part.

Voices of the users of virtual sheet metal processing

Andy Melang, Business Development Manager, Ultratech comments: “One of our customers came to us with a small bracket that was to be added to a new frame afterwards. The tools for manufacturing the assembly frame were mostly built in China, but due to the shortage of time, the work was now done locally. Our customer needed a quick solution because the tool had to be built in twelve to sixteen weeks. Thanks to the Formingsuite Costoptimizer Professional, we were able to send him a list of costs and the total costs in just a few hours, without time-consuming additional advice from our tool designer. In this way, we not only demonstrated our quick responsiveness, but also our professionalism. ”

Solidworks 2022 | CAD software by and for users

Hendrik sheepfold, CEO, Simufact engineering says: “Around 70 percent of all cost-relevant decisions are made in the design phase. If you optimize the production, it brings a high profit in mass production. Our goal remains to be intuitive and easily accessible for all users who need better process knowledge. They don't have to be CAE experts. The new features of the Forming Suite improve our customers' productivity and competitiveness because they can make better decisions beforehand and thus shorten their time to market. ”