(PRWEB) June 15, 2007 -- AutoForm Engineering GmbH, the leading supplier of software solutions for the sheet metal forming industry, has announced the worldwide release of AutoForm Version 4.1. The new version offers over 200 new features and several key enhancements, significantly increasing productivity and quality. This software release is entirely focused on AutoForm's customers' needs.

According to Dr. Markus Thomma, Director of Marketing at AutoForm Engineering, the new features and enhancements provide the following main benefits:

Accurate Springback Calculation and Springback Compensation: AutoForm's new springback feature automatically modifies tooling surfaces based on a precise springback calculation. Die-face engineers can directly take into account springback results and compensate the appropriate tool geometry. The compensated tool geometry is automatically used as new input for rapid and accurate tooling validation. As a result, more reliable process layouts are realized during early planning phases -- as AutoForm springback compensation minimizes the risk of later, costly changes of tooling or processes due to springback effects.
Precise Geometry Modelling: Significant improvements in geometry modelling are achieved by introducing morphing technology. By modifying wall angles, unfolding part areas and performing in-plane modification of details, keeping the regions outside of the morphing untouched, the user can easily evaluate the best geometry model and optimize the process.
More Efficient Die Development Process: The die development process can be shortened considerably using the new substitution and offset skins provided by AutoForm 4.1. Even the original, imperfect surfaces can be substituted by a watertight skin early in the development process. Watertight skins are required for CAD solid design. As a result, solid die design can be started at an earlier stage. Moreover, an additional skin, offset by a large value, can be generated fully automatically. Such offset skins are required for the casting model's solid design. Consequently, the die castings can be launched earlier, reducing the lead time by several weeks.
Accurate Forming Forces: AutoForm 4.1 is able to calculate accurate forming forces. Knowing the exact forming force, the user can define the adequate press equipment required for reliable production, at an early stage of the development process.
Dr. Markus Thomma stated: "Continuous innovation is of the highest importance at AutoForm. We have been entirely focused on our customers' needs, and supporting them in achieving outstanding results was our primary intent with this new version."

About AutoForm Engineering GmbH
AutoForm Engineering develops and markets specialized die face design and simulation software for the automotive and sheet metal forming industries. With all of the Top 20 automobile producers as customers, AutoForm is recognized as the number one provider of software for product formability, die face design and virtual tryouts to the global automotive industry. AutoForm offices are located in Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, USA, Mexico, India, China and Korea. The company also serves the needs of its customers through agents and distributors in more than 15 other countries (Japan, Turkey, Brazil, etc.).

For detailed information visit: www.autoform.com