This paper describes a research work of developing an automated progressive design system for manufacturing the product with multi processes such as piercing, bending, and deep drawing. An approach to the system for progressive working is based on the knowledge-based rules. Knowledge for the system is formulated from plasticity theories, experimental results and the empirical knowledge of field experts. The system consists of three main modules, which are shape treatment, strip layout, and die layout modules. Based on knowledge-based rules, the system is designed considering several factors, such as material and thickness of a product, piercing, bending and deep drawing sequence, and the complexities of the blank geometry and punch profiles. It generates the strip layout drawing for an automobile product. Die design for each process is carried out through the die layout module from the results of the strip layout module. Results obtained using the modules enable the designers for manufacturing products with multi processes to be more efficient in this field.
