Numerical study on the influence of initial anisotropy on optimal blank shape

In this paper, the influence of the initial anisotropy in achieving an optimal blank shape is analysed using anisotropic mild steel (DC06) and nearly isotropic dual-phase steel (DP600) blanks for different tool geometries. An iterative blank shape optimization procedure is used to determine the optimal blank shapes for the geometries. The numerical method is based on an initial NURBS surface used to define the blank shape and the resulting flange geometry of the deformed part. Different rolling direction orientations were considered in the blanks for deep drawing to delineate their effect on the blank shape optimization procedure. From the numerical study it is evident that the optimal blank shape for a part is significantly influenced by the initial anisotropy. The numerical method responds to the material anisotropy and is capable of producing an optimal initial blank shape within few iterations.