This paper deals with an automated computer-aided process planning and die design system by which designer can determine operation sequences even if they have a little experience in process planning and die design for axisymmetric products. An attempt is made to link programs incorporating a number of expert design rules with the process variables obtained by commercial FEM softwares, DEFORM and ANSYS, to form a useful package. The system is composed of four main modules. The process planning and the die design modules consider several factors, such as the complexities of preform geometry, punch and die profiles, specifications of available multi former, and the availability of standard parts. They can provide a flexible process based on either the reduction in the number of forming sequences by combining the possible two processes in sequence, or the reduction of deviation of the distribution on the level of the required forming loads by controlling the forming ratios. Especially in die design module an optimal design technique and horizontal split die were investigated for determining appropriate dimensions of components of multi-former die set. It is constructed that the proposed method can be beneficial for improving the tool life of die set at practice.
