Computer- Aided of bending progressive die design using fuzzy set theory

Abstract

In progressive dies, two or more stations are used to produce sheet metal components. Design and fabrication of progressive dies are rather difficult tasks. In this paper, an algorithm which can automatically design the bending sequence for progressive dies is described. A computer program is developed based on the algorithms and it composed of several modules, namely: feature recognition, flat pattern layout, strip layout and die design. In the feature recognition module, all of the features of a 3-D component can be recognized automatically and checked against some manufacturability rules. In the second module, the flat pattern layout of the component is created automatically. In the strip layout module, the bending sequence is determined using fuzzy set theory based on industrial experience. The bending forces are determined in the fourth module and a 2-D layout of the die is designed. The system is developed in Visual Basic on a Solid Works platform. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2010.