Metamodelling techniques for the optimisation of metal forming processes

An optimisation algorithm for the optimisation of metal forming processes is proposed. The algorithm can be classified as a sequential approximate optimisation algorithm and incorporates both Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Design and Analysis of Computer Experiments (DACE) metamodelling techniques. RSM is based on fitting lower order polynomial by least-squares regression, whereas DACE uses Kriging interpolation functions as metamodels. The proposed optimisation algorithm has been used to obtain the optimised internal pressure and axial feeding load paths to minimise wall thickness variations in a hydroformed product. The results are satisfactory, which shows the good applicability of metamodelling techniques to optimise metal forming processe