Concept for a Self-correcting Sheet Metal Bending Operation

Geometrical deviations can appear in the production of plug contacts used in electrical connection technology and in fittings for the furniture industry. The reasons for this can be a variation in the properties of the semi-finished product, or wear phenomena on the forming machine itself or on the bending tools. When geometrical deviations appear, the process parameters normally have to be adjusted manually. Finding the most appropriate process parameters is currently done manually and is thus very time consuming. In order to reduce the scrap rate and the setup time for production scenarios, a concept for self-correcting bending operations is being developed using the V-model of the VDI guideline 2206. In this case, the V-model will make it possible to set up a self-correcting control strategy consisting of a closed-loop control approach, measurement devices and actuators. Having implemented these components in the forming machines, it will be possible to recognize geometrical deviations automatically and to take corrective action during production, aiming at a reduction of the scrap rate and setup-time.