Abstract:A new fast method called “Pseudo Inverse Approach” (PIA) for the multi-stage axi-symmetrical cold forging modelling is presented. The approach is based on the knowledge of the final part shape. Some intermediate configurations are introduced and corrected by using a free surface method to consider the deformation paths without contact treatment. A new direct algorithm of plasticity is developed using the notion of equivalent stress and the tensile curve, leading to a very efficient and robust plastic integration procedure. Numerical tests show that the Pseudo Inverse Approach is very fast compared with the incremental approach. The PIA is used in an optimization procedure for the preliminary preform tool design in multi-stage cold forging processes. This optimization problem aims to minimize the equivalent plastic strain and the punch force during the forging process. The preform tool shapes are represented by B-spline curves. The vertical positions of the control points of B-spline are taken as design variables. The evolution of the objective functions shows the importance of the tool preform shape optimization for the forging quality and energy saving. The forging results obtained by using the PIA are compared with those obtained by the classical incremental approaches to show the efficiency and accuracy of the PIA.

Key words: cold forging process; Pseudo Inverse Approach; preform design; B-spline; shape optimization; Pareto front