Optimizing sheet metal forming processes—Using a design hierarchy and response surface methodology

In the present paper optimization has been used to evaluate alternative sheet metal forming processes. Six process set-ups were first defined in a hierarchy of designs and optimization was then used to evaluate each forming process of these designs. The challenge in designing the forming process was to avoid failure in the material and at the same time reach an acceptable through thickness strain. The conclusions of this study is that there may exist a different process that can give an improved product for the desired geometry. This process might be impossible for the optimization algorithm to reach due to either a poor starting point or a not so wise process set-up.