A device, whether physical or software-based, designed to compute parameters related to the forming of sheet metal through bending operations enables engineers and fabricators to accurately predict and control the outcome of the bending process. For example, these tools can determine the required bend allowance, bend deduction, or K-factor necessary to achieve a specific final dimension in a bent sheet metal part.
The utilization of such tools offers several advantages, including reduced material waste, improved accuracy in manufacturing, and shortened lead times for product development. Historically, these calculations were performed manually using complex formulas and charts, which were time-consuming and prone to error. The advent of automated calculation methods has significantly streamlined the sheet metal fabrication process.
