Determination of the Bending Sequence in Progressive Die Design

Abstract

The design of a progressive die in bending and forming sheet metal into its final three-dimensional shape in a single set-up is a complex and challenging task. The interlocking features to substitute welding and soldering impose extra constraints on the bending sequence. This paper presents an algorithm for determining the bending sequence. The algorithm is first formulated in a case study of an electronic computer component produced using a progressive die, whose walls are interlocked during bending with inserts and slots. The general cases are then considered. The algorithm provides a systematic approach in determining the bending sequence and can be incorporated easily into a computer aided process planning system.