Lorenzo M. Smith, Ph.D. Associate Dean School of Engineering and Computer Science 248 DHE; (248) 370-4629; Fax: (248) 370-4416 Lsmith8@oakland.edu Ph.D., Michigan State University, 1999

• Joined Oakland University in 2000
• 1990-93 – Fastener Engineer, Engine Division, Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, MI
• 1993-96 (full time graduate school)
• 1996-00 – Senior Formability Analyst, Metal Fabricating Division, General Motors Corporation, Troy, MI
• 2000 – Senior Formability Analyst, Oxford Automotive, Troy, MI
• Membership: SEM, SME, NADDRG
• Research Grant(s): Michigan Space Grant

RESEARCH

• Failure Criteria
• Springback Modeling
• Manufacturing Processes
• Finite Element Formulations
• Experimental Mechanics

1. Failure Criteria. With the emergence of new manufacturing processes for sheet metal forming the need for reliable forming limit criteria is a primary issue. Influence of through-thickness normal stress on the FLD has been investigated. A proposed theoretical model has been developed.


2. Springback Modeling. The production level time constraints imposed upon the formability analyst often tend to compromise the ability of the analyst to provide accurate springback predictions for sheet metal forming processes. Based upon energy considerations, special tool velocity profiles have been developed in order to minimize springback error and C.P.U. time for the explicit finite element method.


3. Manufacturing Processes. Both implicit and explicit finite element methods are employed in order to explore the feasibility and efficiency of various forming processes. A double-sided high-pressure (DSHP) tubular hydroforming technique has been introduced. The DSHP technique is shown to dramatically improve formability for the tubular hydroforming process.


4. Finite Element Formulations. Novel finite element formulations that are designed to accommodate more closely the boundary conditions associated with the metal forming process are studied. A plane-strain model that features translation and shear stress essential degrees of freedom is proposed.


5. Experimental Mechanics. Experimental efforts are employed in order to help validate proposed theoretical formability models. Dome tests, DSHP hydraulic bugle tests and various tension/compression tests are conducted.