The Fraunhofer IWM offers an industrial glass bending unit for glass dimensions of up to 1 m² with extensive manufacturing and measurement equipment. Depending on the type of application, different techniques are used to apply the bending forces and to heat the glass.
In addition to the conventional experimental approach, we use simulation models to investigate interactions and the influence of process parameters. In the numerical models, material properties are taken into account in order to derive process sequences.
In the time-related development, thermal fields and material deformations are calculated. An example for the use of simulation results can be seen in the following illustration. Here the temperature development at a laser-irradiated ring and the vertical displacement at the center of the circle are simulated through the effect of gravity.
With the trialing systems of our research center and the simulation tools we have developed, we support our clients in developing complex bending processes and in process optimization, particularly for the shortening of processes, quality improvements and cost reductions. We also devise solutions for realizing shape diversity and provide proofs of concept.