Optimization of the heat treatment layout and blank outline of THTB

Tailored heat treated blanks (THTB) is the generic term for an innovative approach to enhance the formability of blanks made out of high strength steel or aluminum alloys. Key idea of the technology is the adaption of the mechanical properties by a local heat treatment. Based on the new property distribution, the material flow during the forming operation can be improved and the forming limit can be enhanced. In comparison to conventional temperature assisted approaches the forming is performed at room temperature and therefore all advantages of a cold forming process can be used. Most challenging within the application is the definition of the heat treatment layout. Up to now the layout is dimensioned in a time-consuming trial and error procedure. In this paper a new approach for the automatic optimization of the heat treatment layout and the blank outline is presented.