Knowledge-based design of progressive stamping dies

Abstract

In the past few years, researchers have begun development of knowledge-based tooling design systems for die-casting, injection-molding, and certain other manufacturing processes. These computer systems assist design decision-making by using both physical principles and the often complex “rule-of-thumb” knowledge of human tool designers. To do this, they must draw on data representations of both the part and die geometry, as well as databases of standard die components, machine capabilities, and other reference information. In this paper, one such proof-of-concept system is described for design of progressive stamping dies. For simple sheet-metal parts with characteristics specified interactively by the user, the computer program (1) generates the flat pattern geometry (2) generates a strip layout (3) automatically selects punches, die blocks, side gages and other standard die components, and (4) generates a 3-D representation of the assembled die. Some underlying concepts of knowledge-based design and its application to progressive die design are discussed.