Effectiveness of digital image correlation method in design evaluation of 3D-printed plastic tools for sheet metal forming

Abe Yohei

Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering

This method clarifies the deformation of the plastic tools during thin sheet metal bending, opening possibilities for design of plastic tools for stamping sheet metal products, particularly in small-lot production. Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology, in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology, Nagano College, and the Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, have visualized and evaluated the deformation behavior of tools and sheet using a digital image correlation method in V-bending of sheet metals with plastic tools manufactured by a 3D printer. This method clarifies the deformation of the plastic tools during thin sheet metal bending, opening possibilities for design of plastic tools for stamping sheet metal products, particularly in small-lot production. The team, led by Associate Professor Yohei Abe, combined the digital image correlation method with the observation by a digital camera. The effects of the tool dimension on the deformation behaviors of a 3D-printed PLA punch, die, and metallic sheet were evaluated. The study successfully measured the deformation behaviors of plastic tools in stamping. These findings suggest potential advancements in the design of plastic tools for industry.

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