Optimal design of V and U bending processes using genetic algorithms

This paper presents an optimisation method applied to the design of V and U bending sheet metal processes. The method couples the numerical simulation of sheet metal forming processes with an evolutionary genetic algorithm searching the optimal design parameters of the process. An inverse approach is considered so that the final geometry of the bended blank should closely follow a prescribed one.Applications are presented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method considering several relevant parameters including punch and die radii, punch displacement and blank-holder force.