Radial Forging Pass Scheduling for Complex Stepped Shafts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing software for automated pass schedule calculation in forging is limited to simple geometries and fails to account for complex geometries such as stepped shafts, particularly in radial forging, leading to inefficiencies and material waste.

Innovation Solution

A pass schedule calculation program that considers temperature variation, deformation distribution, and tool geometry to optimize the forging process for complex geometries, using finite element method support and online control for precise and reproducible results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing pass schedule calculation software is used, then simple geometries like bar steel can be forged, but complex geometries such as stepped shafts cannot be processed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeometry complexityVSAvoidcalculation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The stepped shaft geometry is divided into multiple cross-sections along its length, with each cross-section analyzed independently. The software segments the complex geometry into manageable parts (cylindrical sections, conical sections, transitional zones) and calculates deformation and temperature for each segment separately, then integrates the results to provide accurate pass schedule calculations for the entire complex geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If finite element method is used to calculate temperature and deformation distribution, then accurate results are obtained, but calculation time increases and specialized personnel are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature distribution accuracyVSAvoidcalculation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs simplified calculation models and empirical formulas that provide sufficiently accurate temperature and deformation distribution results without requiring complex finite element analysis. These lightweight calculation methods deliver acceptable precision for pass schedule determination while executing rapidly on standard computing hardware, eliminating the need for specialized FEM software and trained personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Productivity

If automated pass schedule calculation is implemented, then productivity increases, but software capability is limited to simple geometries

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforging automation levelVSAvoidgeometry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The pass schedule calculation software is designed with universal applicability to handle multiple geometry types including cylindrical shafts, stepped shafts, conical sections, and transitional zones within a single integrated system. The software incorporates geometric recognition capabilities that automatically identify the type of geometry being forged and apply appropriate calculation methods, enabling automated pass schedule generation for diverse complex geometries without requiring separate specialized software for each geometry type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12589430B2Method for automated pass schedule calculation in forging stepped shafts
Publication Date: 2026.03.31 SMS GROUP GMBH
  • US12589430B2 patent drawing
  • US12589430B2 patent drawing
  • US12589430B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for automatic pass schedule calculation during forging, in particular radial forging, of stepped shafts made of metal workpieces, in particular steel, in a forging machine, preferably a radial forging machine with at least four forging tools arranged around the circumference of the workpiece, which are set up and adapted for simultaneous forging the workpiece and/or the stepped shaft, includes: entering starting parameters for the forging process, preferably radial forging process, into a pass schedule calculation program; specifying target parameters for the forging process, preferably radial forging process; and calculating, by the pass schedule calculation program, based on these start and target parameters, a pass plan or calculated a forge sequence. A control and/or regulation unit and a forging machine for carrying out the method are disclosed.