Evaluation and improvement of the bending process of connector elements by finite elements simulations

Simulation results obtained in the development of a reliable bending process of a connector element are presented. For an accurate modelling of springback, the material hardening behaviour is characterised through tension-compression tests. Based on these data and using a Chabochetype material model, Finite-Element (FE ) analysses are carried out to identify the key material and process parameters and their influences on the final product geometry