Theoretical analysis and experimental study to support the development of a more valuable roll-bending process

A new roll-bending model is proposed which improves upon traditional roll-b ending processes. The new forming model not only resolves some inadequacies of traditional roll-bending processes, but also allows more flexibility in the formation of large bending parts. The upper-bound and lower-bound meth ods are used to research the bending mechanisms of roll-bending processes a nd to provide some rules for the development of a new roll-bending process. Finite element modeling is also implemented for comparison with the upper- bound and lower bound results. Finally, a roll-bending experiment was carri ed out to attempt a real application, with the design of the experimental d evice based on the new roll-bending concept. All these efforts demonstrate that the new roll-bending model has potential for future use in industry. ( C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.