An intelligent knowledge-based system to provide design and manufacturing data for forging

This paper describes current progress on the combination of finite-element programs for metal flow simulation with die design programs in an IKBS. The principle is that the designer will interrogate the knowledge base to discover whether a component with relevant characteristics has been manufactured before, or falls within the scope of its empirical rules base. If so, the CAD program proceeds directly to an evaluation and, if required, to NC or CNC tool manufacture. If the shape is not recognised, the finite-element program can be called into action for analysis of the stress, strain, strain rate and temperature distributions. From this the pre-forms and die designs can be optimised and the shapes passed to the CAD branch for detailing and subsequent production.