An improved finite element model of incremental forming using conic programming

Incremental sheet forming (ISF) is a flexible method for forming sheet metal that can be considered as an incremental deformation process. A fast method for modeling deformation in ISF is required that can form the basis of a path optimisation and feedback control algorithm for the process. This paper improves upon previous formulations for approximately modeling ISF by incorporating bending work and using finite element discretisation. The model is solved by manipulating the problem into the form of a second-order cone program (SOCP) and significant improvements are observed in terms of numerical stability of the model allowing a full product to be simulated. For validation purposes, a comparison is provided between the new model and measured data.