Animation of finite element models of metal forming processes

An interface program which makes it possible to animate finite element models of metal forming processes in an ''Autodesk 3D Studio'' environment is presented. The program converts typical finite element results files for a succession of deformation stages into an ASCII file suitable for loading into ''3D Studio''. The interface presented processes two-dimensional models only; it requires that the models are discretized by linear rectangular elements and dies by linear two-noded elements. Conversion of mesh objects is based on the creation of triangular three-dimensional faces structured on a set of vertices which are defined by the node positions in the finite element result file. The program is written in FORTRAN and a glossary of terms and the source listing are included. For axisymmetric cases, guidelines are provided for generating three-dimensional effects. An elaborate example of the operational procedure is given.