Clamping-sequence optimisation based on heuristic algorithm for sheet-metal components

Abstract

The traditional clamping-sequence optimisation of sheet-metal parts requires many complicated finite element analyses, and clamping-sequence planning does not account for the springback from clamp-release. Therefore, this paper proposes a new optimisation method based on a heuristic algorithm. We first propose a new contact model of parts, clamps and supporting locators to analyse assembly deformation. Then, we use the distance between the actual and nominal positions to evaluate the clamp layout. Finally, we apply the heuristic algorithm to optimise the clamping sequence. We illustrate the proposed method with a case study of a taillight bracket, whose results show that the method of clamping-sequence optimisation can effectively decrease the deformation of sheet metal from clamping.

Keywords:

• design for assembly
• design for manufacture
• fixture design
• optimisation
• sequencing

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Acknowledgement

We would like to thank LetPub (www.letpub.com) for providing linguistic assistance during the preparation of this manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 51575335]; Shu Guang project supported by Shanghai Municipal Education Commission; Shanghai Education Development Foundation [grant number 16SG48].