Abstract
The paper presents a method for the surface shape and strain measurement applied in the determination of metal flow and product quality. Accurate determination of these characteristics in the sheet metal forming operation is extremely important, especially in automotive applications. However, the sheet metal forming is a very complex manufacturing process, and its success depends on many factors. This involves a number of tests that should be carried out to find optimal, yet cost-effective solutions. In this study the author discusses the investigations that are focused on better understanding of the strain values and their distribution in a product, and checking if they do not exceed certain limit resulting in the loss of stability. The hydraulic bulge test was identified as a method most applicable in these investigations, where both theoretical and experimental analysis was conducted. First, the presented solution in the field of reconstruction of three-dimensional (3D) objects significantly expands the capabilities of the analysis, compared with the solutions existing so far. Second, a new method for the 3-dimensional geometry and strain measurement based on laser scanning technique is presented. Next, the image acquisition process and digital image correlation (DIC) are presented to recognize and analyze the objects taken from camera. The 3D shape and strain analysis presented in this paper offers a valuable tool in the metal products quality control, along with a complete testing equipment for maximum strain calculation just before cracking. The computer measurement system is directly connected to the hydraulic bulge test apparatus, thus providing fast and accurate results for material testing and process analysis.