Multi-Mode Optimization for Sheet Metal Parts

Rolling, blanking, and beading to achieve the stiffest sheet metal
under given weight.

In the development of sheet metal parts various production processes like rolling (to get thickness variations), blanking (to cut out the final sheet), and beading (to generate beads for higher stiffness) are very important. In order to optimize sheet metal parts for weight and stiffness, these production processes have to be represented by suitable model modifications.

• The rolling process is implemented by the optimization method called free sizing to achieve variable sheet thicknesses.
• The blanking process is implemented by topology optimization, where an unambiguous selection of required elements is generated.
• For the stiffening of the sheet metal part, bead generation by shape optimization is available, where the nodes of the shell mesh are moved normal to the sheet to get the stiffening effect.

By applying the Multi-Modal Optimization (MMO) approach in PERMAS, all the optimization methods to model the manufacturing processes can be combined in one single optimization.

An animation of the shape changes over all iterations of the optimization is available here.

PERMAS is making realistic simulations practical.  For more information on PERMAS, a Short Description is available here. More detailed information is available from the Product Description here.