Finite element modeling discretization requirements for the laser forming process

Due to high efficiency and accuracy, 3D finite element modeling has been an effective tool to analyze the laser forming process. The discretization of a given finite element model has a significant effect on the results of simulation. To reduce the lengthy computational time caused by excessive degrees of freedom while insuring an accurate solution, the minimum discretization requirements of finite element modeling of the laser forming process need to be determined. This paper investigates the effects of temporal and spatial discretization on the final angular deformation of the plate. Numerical results under different discretization conditions are examined. The minimum requirements for discretization of 3D finite element models for laser forming are established by examining the convergence of the numerical solutions with increased discretization. The numerical results are in good agreement with the experimental measurements.