オートフォームジャパン List of Products and Services

AutoForm's software solutions provide a comprehensive platform for the design, evaluation, and improvement of the press forming process. Incorporating all key factors of comprehensive digital process planning, it offers support across the entire process chain of press forming, enabling users to make informed decisions. Applicable to the development of press-formed parts, process planning, cost validation, and mold development, including process design, trial runs, and mass production. 【Features】 ■ Practical use in daily operations ■ Improved processing capacity for design tasks ■ Support for users to make informed decisions ■ Evaluation from the perspectives of functionality, quality, lead time, and cost 【Solutions】 ■ Product Development - Design of manufacturable press-formed parts ■ Process Planning/Cost Validation - Efficient process and cost planning ■ Mold Development - Rapid creation of mold concepts and final process validation ■ Trial Runs/Mass Production - Support for efficient trial runs and robust mass production For more details, please refer to the catalog or feel free to contact us.

With AutoForm-HemPlanner, you can easily define and optimize the hemming process. The software allows you to identify potential issues that may occur during the process, such as flange cracking, wrinkling, material overlap at corners, and material entrapment. By combining AutoForm-HemPlanner with AutoForm-Solverplus, you can achieve an efficient process planning solution for hemming. For more details, please contact us.

By using this solution, the hemming process can be easily defined, allowing for efficient optimization of the process. The hemming process significantly affects the appearance and quality of the product, making its precision very important. With the introduction of "AutoForm-HemPlanner," it is possible to identify potential issues that may arise during the process. With the introduction of "AutoForm-HemPlanner," 【Expected Effects】 - Efficient planning of the hemming process that meets quality and cost requirements. - Feasibility studies in the early stages and final verification, as well as appropriate selection of methods and tools for hemming. - Efficient implementation of mold design and process planning. - Rapid identification of hemming issues such as cracks, wrinkles, or material entrapment. - Prediction of springback after full assembly post-hemming. 《For more details, please contact us or download the catalog.》

"AutoForm-ProcessDesigner for CATIA" is software that combines the expertise of press forming with the efficient design capabilities of CATIA V5. It standardizes process design at the corporate level, significantly reducing the time required to create CAD-quality die faces. With "AutoForm-ProcessDesigner for CATIA," you can create die layouts (including deep drawing and all processes after the second stage) while working within the CATIA environment. This software is designed to meet the needs of process designers. It consolidates various sketches and structural elements used in CATIA V5 into several very powerful features, enabling easy and rapid design of die faces. The comprehensive data structure simplifies the use of new features and improves collaboration between departments as well as between manufacturers and suppliers. The high-quality surfaces produced are characterized by a significant reduction in the number of control elements and appropriate continuity. For more details, please contact us or download the catalog.

This solution is designed for engineers evaluating formability, planners of process planning, and mold manufacturers to quickly create die face designs for the entire press forming process. ■ Features ○ It combines automatic functions for 3D mold design with user-friendliness. ○ Designers can easily modify not only intermediate processes but also the final part shapes. ○ When modifications are made, all processes and the mold shapes for trial-out simulations are automatically and instantly updated. ○ After process optimization, the resulting die face can be used directly. ■ Benefits ○ Creation of concept die faces ○ Evaluation of multiple process concept alternatives through direct integration with process simulations ○ Deep understanding and verification of the entire process design For more details, please download the PDF or contact us.

"AutoForm" is a press forming simulation software that minimizes rework in the manufacturing process. It has a fast calculation speed, and operation is as simple as following the guidance and using the default settings. This allows for better parts to be brought to market in a shorter time and at a lower cost. - There is an increasing number of difficult-to-form materials such as high-strength steel and complex-shaped parts. - There is a desire to shorten production preparation time. - There is a lot of variability in overseas production. Are you facing challenges in the increasingly difficult development of automotive press-formed parts? [Recommended for those who] - Want to operate easily - Want to increase calculation speed - Want to quickly identify the causes of variability and solve them efficiently On this page, you can download a collection of case studies that include examples such as the "utilization by Peugeot-Citroën," which has aimed to shorten lead times and development periods within a limited timeframe, and reduce costs for trials and production. *If you would like technical materials or domestic case studies, please contact us using the button below.

Franke Kitchen Systems presents a case study on how they improved production robustness and successfully reduced costs with the adoption of AutoForm plus! 【Effects After Implementation】 ■ Consideration of the forming process through AutoForm plus enabled the development of a robust production system. ■ Contributed to the design and production of high-quality product designs suitable for special commemorative designs. ■ Created new collaborative relationships that transcended departmental boundaries through analytical evaluation of results from each process. ■ Enabled the evaluation of design variables related to the variable results of spherical radius plate reduction. If you would like the case study, it is available for free download.

Walker Tool & Die, which manufactures steel and aluminum products, has released a case study video showcasing their use of AutoForm. They have utilized AutoForm for many years to verify the press forming process and material usage, achieving high-precision estimates. They place great importance on overwhelming calculation speed and the accuracy of the results. Currently, the case study video from Walker Tool & Die is available for viewing.

Our company offers a 'Mold Development' solution that can reduce the number of trials and optimization loops for press forming, as well as the overall lead time for mold development processes. With the mold development solution, it becomes possible to conduct a detailed examination of the entire press forming process, from blank insertion into the press machine to binder wrap, draw, trim, restrike, flange, springback, and springback correction. Optimization for wear prevention can also be performed before starting mold design. 【Features】 ■ Enables rapid process design and 3D mold design for the entire press forming process ■ Quick optimization using fully parametric 3D mold design that can be easily modified ■ High-precision trial-out simulations for deep drawing, flange bending, and more ■ Comprehensive results including formability, surface accuracy detection, and mold wear ■ Accurate springback simulation and springback correction *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

Our company provides software solutions for the mold creation and sheet metal forming industry. We enhance the reliability of process design and reduce the number and time of mold tryouts, ensuring the design of high-quality parts and molds. Our solutions fully integrate advanced specialized functions into a single system based on practical experience, industry know-how, and expertise in press forming, analyzing, scrutinizing, and optimizing each stage of the process chain. We offer solutions for the entire press forming process, ranging from standalone modules for small and medium-sized enterprises to fully integrated multi-module systems for large corporations. [Department Introduction] ■ Parts Development ■ Process Design / Cost Verification ■ Mold Development ■ Tryout / Mass Production *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-StampingAdviser" is software that allows for the rapid and easy execution of feasibility evaluations for parts and processes, as well as considerations of blank shapes, material yield, and blank costs. It provides feedback on quality issues related to press forming, such as the risks of wrinkles, cracks, and excessive sheet thinning, as well as evaluations of blank unfolding shapes and material costs. 【Features】 ■ Feasibility evaluation of parts and processes ■ Feedback on quality issues related to press forming ■ Predictions of blank shapes and nesting 【Main Functions】 ■ Powerful and flexible configuration options ■ Quick modifications of part shapes ■ Multiple blanking options ■ Use based on parts only or complete die shapes *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-Explorer" is software that allows for easy and quick setup of simulations and evaluation of important result variables. For process planners and process engineers, it enables detailed definition and evaluation of manufacturing processes for press forming die components. Additionally, the interpretation of results can be executed quickly and easily. 【Features】 ■ Efficient simulation setup ■ Identification and interpretation of defects ■ Verification of process feasibility ■ Rapid evaluation of results ■ Improvement of forming behavior for press forming die components 【Main Functions】 ■ User-friendly navigation based on workflow concepts ■ Semi-automatic result evaluation ■ Application and management of corporate standards ■ Display of surface defects - digital stoning *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-Sigma" is software that enables the analysis of press-formed parts and processes, as well as the improvement of robustness. It is possible to identify which design parameters affect the quality of parts and to what extent. Additionally, if issues arise during trials or production, it supports the identification of corrective actions. Furthermore, it can also identify ineffective corrective measures and appropriate means that lead to problem resolution. 【Features】 ■ Analytical process improvement ■ Stability and reliability of the forming process ■ Robust manufacturing processes ■ Minimization of defective formed parts ■ Minimization of correction loops and associated costs 【Main Functions】 ■ Automatic variation of design parameters ■ Verification of key design parameters ■ Assessment of noise and variation range of process parameters ■ Evaluation of process capability ■ Automatic execution of multiple simulations *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

The "AutoForm-TryoutAssistant" is software that digitally supports actual tryouts. During tryouts, a draw-type correction loop is repeated until parts can be produced with the required quality. Corrections and corrective actions are inevitable, but each correction loop that can be avoided directly leads to savings in time and costs. 【Features】 ■ Digital support for mold factories ■ Direct communication between the engineering department and the tryout department ■ Fine-tuning of draw-type molds ■ Reduction of tryout loops and associated costs 【Main Functions】 ■ Check process parameters and mold shapes before tryouts ■ Confirm the shape and dimensions of the blank, as well as its relative position ■ Record all the vast data from the tryout process and each iteration ■ Comprehensive analysis of process parameters and corresponding shape corrections ■ Language selection options for the user interface *For more details, please refer to the external link page or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-DieDesigner" is software that allows for the rapid creation of alternative designs for die faces throughout the entire press forming process. Once the die face design is created, it can be used for process simulation with AutoForm-FormingSolver. The results can be evaluated with AutoForm-Explorer. By fully integrating die face design with simulation and result evaluation, it enables the quick assessment of multiple alternative process and mold concepts, as well as the selection of optimal concepts regarding formability, quality, and cost. 【Features】 ■ Creation of concept die faces ■ Evaluation of multiple process concept alternatives through direct integration with process simulation ■ Deep understanding and verification of the entire process design 【Main Functions】 ■ Creation of parameterized die face shapes for all processes ■ Creation of excess material based on customized profiles ■ Automatic unfolding of flanges on excess material surfaces ■ Modeling of shapes using morphing technology

"AutoForm-HemPlanner" is software that not only creates the die shapes necessary for simulation but also allows for easy definition and optimization of the hemming process. This process significantly impacts the appearance and quality of the surface, making precision extremely important. By using this product, you can streamline the definition of the hemming process. As a result, the design of the effective surface of the die no longer needs to rely on costly trial-and-error methods based on experience. 【Features】 ■ Definition of the hemming process that meets quality and cost requirements ■ Feasibility and final verification considerations in the early stages ■ Identification of typical hemming defects ■ Prediction of springback for the entire assembly after hemming 【Main Functions】 ■ Support for roll and table-top hemming ■ Evaluation of various hemming concepts in the early stages - example of quick hemming ■ Final verification of hemming concepts - example of advanced hemming ■ Definition of die shapes and die movements *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

This document introduces a project that verifies the applicability of thin AHSS (Advanced High-Strength Steel) as an outer closure panel for automobiles. It includes the project's objectives, material selection, forming processes, springback, and more. As a result, it was demonstrated that thin AHSS can be hemmed for outer closure panels and can significantly contribute to weight reduction in automobile closure panel assembly. 【Contents (excerpt)】 ■ Project Objectives ■ Material Selection ■ Forming Processes ■ Springback ■ Hemming 【Other Contents】 ■ Surface Strain ■ Dimensional Evaluation ■ Conclusion *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

The "AutoForm-Compensator" is software that automatically adjusts the die surface based on accurate springback calculations or measured springback data. When the user defines the anticipated correction area, that area is automatically corrected based on the springback calculation results. Using the anticipated correction shape, rapid and accurate die verification can be performed. 【Features】 ■ Reliability in process planning and process engineering ■ Reduction of correction loops ■ No risk of corrections in subsequent processes due to springback 【Main Functions】 ■ User-defined anticipated correction areas ■ Support for free springback and springback fixed by clamps ■ Automatic adjustment of die shapes *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

This document explains the simplification of the design and build of press molding dies. It includes methods to reduce the delivery time of molds by up to two-thirds, the use of simulations to address the accumulating challenges of springback, and improvements in accuracy and reductions in model creation time through the optimization of trim lines. [Contents] - Reduction of mold delivery time by up to two-thirds - Use of simulations to tackle the accumulating challenges of springback - Improvement in accuracy and reduction in model creation time through trim line optimization *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-CostEstimator" is designed for OEMs and mold manufacturers, allowing for quick calculation of mold costs during the process planning and cost estimation stages. This software automatically associates details of parts that affect mold costs with the production steps. With just a few clicks of the mouse, this product calculates mold costs based on the defined production sequence. This enables analytical evaluation of alternative production concepts and quickly identifies the most cost-effective concept. 【Features】 ■ Measurement of the impact of alternative press forming processes on mold costs ■ Calculation of mold costs based on CAD part data and press forming processes ■ Creation of reliable cost estimates in a short time 【Main Functions】 ■ Full graphic-based 3D approach using CAD part shapes ■ Automatic feature detection of part shapes ■ Intelligent cost calculation engine for press forming processes *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-DieAdviser" allows you to determine optimal die designs and effective wear protection concepts based on the simulation results of AutoForm-FormingSolver. In this software, the durability of die materials, hardening, and die coatings is determined considering production volume and press stroke rates. It enhances die design in the early stages of part development and enables high durability of dies along with cost reduction. 【Features】 ■ Definition of optimal die layouts (including die segments) ■ Cost-effective wear protection concepts based on production volume ■ Reduction in lubricant consumption ■ Improvement in die performance and durability 【Main Functions】 ■ Identification of areas with severe die wear ■ Distinction between sheet materials and part types ■ Wear protection concepts that combine appropriate die materials, hardening, and die coatings *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-FormingSolver" is software that simulates press forming using line, transfer, or progressive dies. It accurately and quickly simulates the entire press forming process, including the drawing process and springback and hemming from the second operation onward, allowing for verification. Once the simulation results are available, they can be displayed in AutoForm-Explorer to obtain detailed information about the forming process. 【Features】 ■ Simulation of line and progressive die press forming ■ Fast and accurate simulation of deep drawing, re-strike, trimming, flanging, and hemming processes ■ Accurate simulation of springback ■ Deep understanding of the entire press forming process 【Other Features】 ■ Rapid verification of new process concepts to improve quality and reduce costs ■ Reduced computation time utilizing SMP or MPP parallel processing technology ■ Enhanced options such as thermal effects, phase transformation, and tribology improvements *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

The "AutoForm-Thermo Plug-In" is software used in conjunction with AutoForm-FormingSolver to consider common thermal effects in cold, warm, and hot press forming simulations. If there is no need to consider the effects of phase transformation, this plug-in can be used to examine the feasibility of parts and processes. It optimizes forming and production process parameters while executing final validation analysis, taking thermal behavior into account. 【Features】 ■ Realistic simulation of thermal effects in the press forming process ■ More realistic modeling of temperature-dependent friction behavior when used in conjunction with the TriboForm Plug-In ■ Simulation of the quenching process for manganese-boron steel using the AutoForm-PhaseChange Plug-In 【Main Functions】 ■ Fast simulation of thermal behavior in the press forming process ■ Complete thermo-mechanical coupled simulation that does not consider phase-dependent material properties ■ Graphic display of simulation results ■ Final part characteristics display, including temperature changes and distribution of parts and molds, thickness distribution, strain-stress distribution, and springback.

The "AutoForm-PhaseChange Plug-In" is software that, when combined with the AutoForm-Thermo Plug-In, allows for realistic simulation of the hot press forming process for ultra-high-strength steel materials. In the automotive industry, the hot press forming process is crucial for meeting the requirements of improved collision safety levels and weight reduction. 【Features】 ■ Realistic simulation of hot press forming and quenching processes ■ Forming of complex-shaped parts with suppressed springback effects ■ Press-formed parts that meet target local strength characteristics ■ Improved accuracy in collision analysis 【Main Functions】 ■ Rapid simulation of direct and indirect hot press forming processes ■ Complete thermo-mechanical coupled simulation considering phase-dependent material properties ■ Phase transformation during quenching and thermal deformation after cooling ■ Support for tailored tempering processes ■ Graphic display of final part characteristics, including thickness distribution, strain-stress distribution, and distribution and ratio of different material phases, along with the resulting hardness.

"AutoForm-Trim" is a tool used in conjunction with AutoForm-FormingSolver to determine the blank outline and to examine suitable trim lines during the trim die trial-out. This software allows for the simultaneous design of draw dies and trim dies. At the end of the pre-process for the trim operation, the trim line is optimized so that the part boundaries conform to the target shape and dimensions. 【Features】 ■ Determination of suitable trim lines and blank outlines ■ Time reduction and cost savings through simultaneous development of trim dies and draw dies ■ Reduction of trial-out time for laser trimming of complex parts 【Main Functions】 ■ Automatic determination of blank outlines for near-net-shape manufacturing ■ Automatic calculation of multiple blank outlines ■ Calculation of segments for customer-specified blank outlines or cut outlines ■ Simultaneous determination of all cut-out lines for multiple cutting processes *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"Logopress" is software customized to meet the needs of progressive die manufacturers. It includes die design software for the die industry, as well as software for predicting flattening and blank shapes, covering a wide range of functions that encompass the entire process characteristics of progressive die technology. By identifying potential issues early in the design stage, it is possible to avoid costly die modifications in later stages. Utilizing the powerful options of each product enables smooth and efficient operations. 【Features】 ■ Customized to meet the needs of progressive die manufacturers ■ Design of dies, prediction of flattening, blank shapes, and nesting ■ Modeling of complex shapes in intermediate stages 【Lineup (excerpt)】 ■ Logopress3 Die Design ■ Logopress3 Strip Layout ■ Logopress3 Flattening ■ Logopress3 Progressive Blank Companion (optional add-on) ■ Logopress3 NESTING *For more details, please refer to the external link page or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-ProcessDesigner for CATIA" is a powerful mold design support tool developed based on AutoForm's expertise in press forming processes and the needs of process designers. 【Features】 ■ Creation of high-quality and rapid nominal shapes and anticipated surfaces ■ A standard approach that allows customization of process design for all types of processes ■ Support for company-wide workflow standardization and data consistency ■ Smooth data exchange both internally (between different departments) and externally (between manufacturers and suppliers) ■ Integration with the CATIA environment ensures full compatibility with CATIA V5 features In the CATIA V5/V6 environment, using dedicated commands enables the following processes: ■ Rapid creation of nominal shapes for deep drawing in process design and die face layouts including all secondary processes (trimming, bending) ■ Quick implementation of springback compensation using correction vector fields ■ Rapid execution of anticipated corrections for Class-A surfaces using high-quality Bézier surfaces ■ Quick creation of beads and reliefs in the NC preparation stage

"AutoForm-QuickLink for CATIA" is a CAD embedded module that provides a seamless data flow between AutoForm and CATIA. In the process design department, it is possible to enhance work efficiency through more efficient collaboration with internal and external departments. The output data includes concept shape data such as surfaces, curves, points, project information, material information, and process information. 【Features】 ■ Data exchange between AutoForm and CATIA ■ Consistency, transparency, and usability of data ■ Streamlining of CAD design processes ■ Prevention of downstream process issues 【Main Functions】 ■ Input and output only the necessary shape and process data between AutoForm and CATIA ■ Easily modify shapes, part positions, tipping, and cam directions ■ Consistent naming and terminology ■ Complete transfer of process structures *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-QuickLink for NX" is a CAD embedded module that provides a seamless data flow between AutoForm and NX. It allows for easy output of process data from AutoForm and integration into the NX environment. The output data includes concept shape data such as surfaces, curves, points, project information, material information, and process information. Additionally, simulation results can be exported. 【Features】 ■ Data exchange between AutoForm and NX ■ Consistency, transparency, and usability of data ■ Streamlining of CAD design processes ■ Prevention of downstream process issues 【Main Functions】 ■ Input and output only the necessary shape and process data between AutoForm and NX ■ Easy modification of shapes, part positions, tipping, and cam directions ■ Consistent naming and terminology ■ Complete transfer of process structure *For more details, please refer to the external link page or feel free to contact us.

TriboForm is software that can quickly simulate the coating of molds, lubrication, surface characteristics of materials, friction of new sheet materials, and ultimately the quality of products in the press forming process. By considering the effects of tribology more realistically, it enables a new level of simulation accuracy. TriboForm products enhance the AutoForm product line. 【Features】 ■ Accurate representation of complex tribological phenomena ■ Simulation, display, and evaluation of friction and lubrication conditions ■ Easy integration with representative simulation software ■ Avoid costly mold modifications during trials and production *For more details, please refer to the PDF materials or feel free to contact us.

The "AutoForm Cloud Service" allows you to freely and directly use AutoForm software and hardware anytime, anywhere, as needed, through a browser. This service eliminates the need for complicated tasks such as on-site installation, maintenance, and updates. Through the AutoForm Cloud Service in partnership with Rescale, you can use AutoForm software in an optimal hardware environment, including processor types, core memory, storage, and parallel processing. 【Features】 ■ Access to AutoForm software and hardware resources that are virtually unlimited, immediately and easily available ■ Use of AutoForm software in an optimal hardware environment ■ No need for on-site installation, maintenance, or updates ■ Optimization of software and hardware costs *For more details, please refer to the external link page or feel free to contact us.

"EasyBlank Cloud" is a free cloud service that can be used directly in your browser without the need to install any software. The results are displayed in the browser, but they can also be saved in IGS CAD format. Additionally, detailed reports in Excel format can be created. You can benefit from early-stage cost and manufacturability analysis, optimization of material usage, and reductions in scrap and costs. 【Features】 ■ Free ■ Directly usable in the browser ■ Results are displayed in the browser but can be saved in IGS CAD format ■ Quickly examine blank outline lines developed from CAD part shapes ■ Feasibility of products can also be examined ■ Possible to enjoy benefits such as reductions in scrap and costs *For more details, please refer to the external link page or feel free to contact us.

AutoForm TubeXpert can meet the increasing demands for complex shapes of tube components, part quality, advanced materials such as high-strength steel and aluminum, and the diversification and complexity of the forming process. <Advantages> - Improvement in quality and cost through the verification of multiple alternative concepts - Deep understanding of the entire forming process of tube-shaped components through the evaluation of forming process windows - Reduction in development time and costs for molds, materials, and production - Enhanced process reliability enabling robust production <Key Features> - Creation of process planning data related to costs - Complete design of necessary molds and seamless process simulation of the entire forming process - Promotion of corporate standards and automatic detection of forming defects - Springback simulation after the forming process and automatic correction of molds for springback prediction adjustment - Analytical process improvement and evaluation of the robustness of manufacturing processes

AutoForm TubeXpert can accommodate various requirements such as complex shapes, part quality, advanced materials like high-strength steel and aluminum, and the diversification and complexity of the forming process. 【Advantages】 - Rapid mold/process design for tube parts - Improvement of quality and cost through verification of multiple concept proposals - Detailed examination of the entire forming process for tube parts - Reduction of development time and cost savings in molds, materials, and production - Enhanced process reliability to ensure robust manufacturing *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

"AutoForm-DieDesignerPlus" is a shape creation feature available through the AutoForm interface, designed to meet the needs of engineers responsible for creating CAD-quality surfaces. This software allows for the creation of high-quality CAD surfaces during the process design phase. The created surfaces can be used for accuracy prediction and estimation correction, and can subsequently be exported for mold manufacturing. By utilizing AutoForm-DieDesignerPlus, you can significantly improve the efficiency of tasks during the process design phase. [Main Features] - Parametric modeling of die face shapes for press forming processes - High-quality estimation correction for mold surfaces - A structured surface creation workflow tailored for press forming process design - Flexible and free modeling without restrictions on specified styles or profiles - Automatic flange unfolding for created shapes

"AutoForm-DieDesignerPlus" is a shape creation feature available through the AutoForm interface, designed to meet the needs of engineers responsible for creating CAD-quality surfaces. This software allows for the creation of high-quality CAD surfaces during the process design phase. The created surfaces can be used for accuracy prediction and correction, and can subsequently be exported for mold manufacturing. By utilizing AutoForm-DieDesignerPlus, you can significantly streamline the work during the process design phase. 【Main Features】 - Parametric die face shape modeling for press forming processes - High-quality correction of mold surfaces - A structured surface creation workflow tailored for press forming process design - Flexible and free modeling without restrictions on predetermined styles or profiles - Automatic flange unfolding for created shapes

Due to the recent expansion of high-strength steel applications, simulations that take into account mold deflection are being required. By enabling the prediction of mold deflection and feeding back the deformation to the mold shape, it contributes to reducing the number of trial runs. AutoForm-ToolDeflect can be used from the early stages of process design when the final shape of the mold is not yet determined in CAD. It allows for the quick creation of initial concepts for mold design based solely on the part shape. Additionally, by analyzing various concepts, it becomes possible to select the most effective design. When utilizing AutoForm-ToolDeflect for final verification, the final mold shape data created in CAD is used. Once the mold deflection is calculated, over-crowning can be performed. This result can also be used as data for machining.

On September 29, 2023 (Friday), we held the AutoForm User Conference "AutoForUm 2023" at Bellesalle Akihabara. We received presentations from four user companies that went beyond the scope of press forming simulation, showcasing the latest application use cases. In this report on the user conference, we would like to introduce an overview of the presentations and the atmosphere of the venue for those users who unfortunately could not attend. - Estimation of mass production cracking factors using AutoForm-Sigma: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. - Improving operational efficiency using AutoForm-Sigma – Moving away from existing examination methods from initial considerations to TRY: Honda Motor Co., Ltd. - Digital innovation in mold manufacturing – Front-loading of business processes using AutoForm: Minami Co., Ltd. - Introduction of the hood forming process utilizing hemming simulation: Toyota Motor Corporation.

This article introduces a case study that systematically addresses springback reduction by combining AF-Sigma with shape modification functions, focusing on ultra-high tensile structural members with hat cross-sections. In the latter part of this article, we discuss changes in bending angles during intermediate processing and the addition of step shapes to the upper surface of the product. Finally, we will briefly verify the feasibility of the anticipated reduction in springback amounts. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries.*

This article introduces a case study that systematically addresses springback reduction by combining AutoForm-Sigma with shape modification functions, focusing on ultra-high-strength structural members with a hat cross-section. In the first half of this article, we discuss the background and methods of the initiative, as well as the processing steps, including the initial case study on imparting and optimizing springback suppression shapes on wall surfaces. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries.*

In the simulation study conducted at high tension, where issues are often observed, we will introduce a case that focused particularly on "friction" and worked on improving accuracy. With the goal of enhancing accuracy in the process (drawing die) and reducing lead time, we conducted calculations using AutoForm with two different friction conditions and compared the results with actual panel dimensions. In simulations using constant friction, phenomena that were excessively represented were confirmed to show behavior changes closer to actual panels by using the TriboForm model. This led to a reduction in lead time due to fewer modifications needed in die manufacturing. 【Key Points in Evaluation】 ■ Setting thresholds based on an understanding of the impact of friction (tribology) on quality ■ Establishing a feasible schedule aligned with the trial dates for evaluation ■ FV settings for AutoForm simulation (FV settings: parameter settings suitable for accuracy evaluation) ■ In-depth technical discussions on friction issues and sharing of concerns *For detailed information on the case, please refer to the related links. For more details, feel free to contact us.

We would like to introduce a case where a major parts manufacturer, which had been using "AutoForm-StampingAdviser" to confirm formability intensively in a short period of time, changed its approach to reduce the effort required for consideration and further focused on front-loading. When products that are judged to have strict formability are included, it becomes difficult to change the product shape because the timing for proposing the product shape is already delayed. As a result, the consideration department was forced to explore numerous proposals that would ensure formability. In response, we enhanced this tool, and in addition to establishing the prospect of reducing total consideration time by 50%, we were able to complete detailed examinations early, allowing for quicker integration into product shapes and feedback to clients. [Results] - Established the prospect of reducing total consideration time by 50% - Enabled early response for integration into product shapes and feedback to clients - Allowed "AutoForm-DieDesigner" to be used as a common tool between the SE consideration and detailed examination departments *Details of the case can be viewed through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

We would like to introduce how AutoForm-ProcessDesigner for CATIA is utilized at Ogiwara Co., Ltd., a major mold manufacturer in the Kanto region. In the process of creating models using CAD, we aimed to reduce man-hours by sharing the task of creating trim blades. By integrating this software into the existing CAD procedures, we eliminated the cumbersome manual connections and blending tasks associated with the existing CAD procedures, making it possible to easily create the shapes of trim blades. As a result, we achieved a 40% reduction in man-hours. [Case Overview] ■Challenges - There were a very large number of trim blades, and a significant amount of man-hours was spent on creating shapes other than the molded parts. ■Results - We were able to reduce the man-hours for creating trim blade models by 30-40%. *For more detailed information about the case, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, please feel free to contact us.

Uchida Co., Ltd., based in Osaka and Fukuoka, specializes in the design and manufacturing of press molds for automotive body parts centered around Toyota. Having utilized AutoForm's simulation software for many years, the company has identified challenges in its existing business processes in collaboration with AutoForm Japan, aiming for efficient mold manufacturing. In an industry characterized by rapid changes that occur once every hundred years, Uchida seeks further growth and strongly recognizes that improving the skills of each employee, particularly enhancing the technical capabilities of engineers, will advance trial-out labor and cost improvements. The company has begun initiatives aimed at realizing its "ideal state." *For more details, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

In recent years, reverse engineering of molds has played an important role in product development and production processes. Molds significantly impact product quality, cost, and delivery time; however, much of the manufacturing process still relies on craftsmanship, and there are various challenges in the efficiency and digitalization of mold development. For example, there may be inconsistencies between molds that have been hand-finished on-site and mold development data, or even if one wants to verify defects or improvements of existing molds on 3D digital data, there may be no data that matches the actual product. Additionally, maintaining repeat molds can require excessive labor hours. This article introduces efficient mold reverse engineering methods and application examples utilizing our solutions. *For more details, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.