June 15, 2007:
AutoForm Unveils New Software Release – AutoForm Version
4.1
AutoForm Engineering GmbH, the leading supplier of software solutions
for the sheet metal forming industry, has announced the worldwide
release of AutoForm Version 4.1. The new version offers over 200
new features and several key enhancements, significantly increasing
productivity and quality. This software release is entirely focused
on AutoForm’s customers’ needs.
Springback compensation of a B-pillar
reinforcement:
after 3 iterations, the springback reaches a value of less than ±0.3 mm
According to Dr. Markus Thomma, Director of Marketing at
AutoForm Engineering, the new features and enhancements provide
the following main benefits:
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Accurate Springback Calculation and Springback Compensation: AutoForm’s
new springback feature automatically modifies tooling surfaces
based on a precise springback calculation. Die-face engineers
can directly take into account springback results and compensate
the appropriate tool geometry. The compensated tool geometry
is automatically used as new input for rapid and accurate
tooling validation. As a result, more reliable process
layouts are realized during early planning phases – as
AutoForm springback compensation minimizes the risk of
later, costly changes of tooling or processes due to springback
effects. |
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Precise Geometry Modelling: Significant
improvements in geometry modelling are achieved by introducing
morphing technology. By modifying wall angles, unfolding
part areas and performing in-plane modification of details,
keeping the regions outside of the morphing untouched, the
user can easily evaluate the best geometry model and optimize
the process. |
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More Efficient Die Development
Process: The die development process can be shortened
considerably using the new substitution and offset skins
provided by AutoForm 4.1. Even the original, imperfect
surfaces can be substituted by a watertight skin early
in the development process. Watertight skins are required
for CAD solid design. As a result, solid die design can
be started at an earlier stage. Moreover, an additional
skin, offset by a large value, can be generated fully automatically.
Such offset skins are required for the casting model’s
solid design. Consequently, the die castings can be launched
earlier, reducing the lead time by several weeks. |
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Accurate Forming Forces: AutoForm
4.1 is able to calculate accurate forming forces. Knowing
the exact forming force, the user can define the adequate
press equipment required for reliable production, at an early
stage of the development process. |
Dr. Markus Thomma stated: “Continuous innovation is of
the highest importance at AutoForm. We have been entirely focused
on our customers’ needs, and supporting them in achieving
outstanding results was our primary intent with this new version.”
Press
Release [pdf - 103 KB], Image
Contact:
Dr. Markus Thomma
Director of Marketing
AutoForm Engineering GmbH
Technoparkstrasse 1
CH-8005 Zurich
Switzerland
Tel
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+41 43 444 6161
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Fax
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+41 43 444 6162
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