Springback-Free Sheet Metal Structural Part Design by Topography Optimization

Topographgy optimization is a special kind of size optimization and it has been widely used to enhance the stiffness of sheet metal formed component by adding beads to the geometry. In this paper we present a methodology on how this concept can be employed in order to reduce formed part geometry deviation due to springback. An automotive part from Numisheet benchmark 2008 was used in this study. Several bead patterns were first generated by topography optimization subject to load constraints. Then the effects of these bead patterns location and size were studied by numerical forming and springback simulation. Our results show that the bead patterns have a significant effect on the springback. Finally, a methodology has been developed so that springback-free design can be incorporated in the early stage of part design.