Importance

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Abstract

A stretch-bend-draw simulator (SBDS) apparatus for approximating die stamping of a metal is disclosed. The simulator includes a tool having a surface for contacting a sheet metal strip clamped in a jaw grip adapted to pull the sheet metal strip to provide a force measurement. A tool holding and moving device can be included for mounting, translating, and positioning the tool with respect to the sheet metal strip. The tool can be mounted on the tool holding device at a distal end or on a mounting plate of the apparatus. The tool holding device is coupled to a contact force measuring load cell for measuring the contact force. A draw bead block holder is provided that is adapted to mount a corresponding male and female draw bead blocks. The holder includes a compressing means for compressing the draw bead blocks together to clamp the strip. A clamping force measuring load cell is provided for measuring a clamping force resulting from the draw bead blocks clamping on the sheet metal strip. The simulator can include a base clamping device for mounting the sheet metal strip at an opposite end. The base clamping device is positioned adjacent the draw bead block holder and coupled to a back force measuring means for measuring a back force resulting from holding the sheet metal strip while the jaw grip pulls the sheet metal strip. The apparatus is adapted to analyze skid lines on the sheet metal strip resulting from contact with the tool.

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First Claim