A new approach for inverse analysis of springback in a sheet-bending process

Abstract

In sheet metal-forming processes, the final product can deviate from the target shape as a result of springback. Several approaches have been proposed for analysis of springback and compensating for its error. In this paper, a new approach for springback analysis is presented based on inverse modelling. The springback occurs at the last step of the process and the final geometry of the workpiece can be obtained at the end of direct process modelling. By applying inverse springback analysis, iterative die design becomes possible from the end of the process. Applying bending theory in an inverse algorithm, compensation of springback error is performed in the V-bending process. Convergence of the inverse approach is compared with the direct approach. The inverse springback analysis is developed for three-dimensional analysis of sheet metal forming by applying the explicit—implicit finite element method. Inverse springback modelling of asymmetric and large springback processes is feasible by this new algorithm. The capability and accuracy of this method are investigated for various symmetric and asymmetric processes by comparing results of the method by three-dimensional finite element analysis and V-bending experimental results.