Abstract
To reduce the cost and cycle time in fabrication of the conventional stamping die, a new forming technology, so-called multi-point matched-die forming (MPMDF), has been developed based on the discretization of the die. In MPMDF, the fixed shape matched-dies of conventional stamping are replaced by a pair of opposed matrices of movable punch elements. Using multi-point matched-dies generated by punch matrices, a variety of three-dimensional sheet parts of different shapes can be produced. Taking advantage of the flexibility of the multi-point die, new sheet forming techniques have been developed, which realize the formation of parts of large size and with large deformation. In this paper, the principle of MPMDF and the new forming techniques are described, new MPMDF equipment is introduced, and typical application examples are presented.