SMIRT DieLayout is a software program that assists the stamping die processor in defining the number of dies required to successfully create a stamped part panel and what each die should do. Tools are provided within the software that makes it easier for a die processor to determine the feasibility of each die performing its desired operation. SMIRT DieLayout also creates a dataset that is organized and easy for others to follow. This dataset can be read directly into SMIRT DieCost to estimate the cost to manufacture the dies.

Features at a glance:

• Multiple import options
• Press information
• Graphics
• One precise focus
• Part layout
• Defining die layouts
• Engineering changes
• Analysis tools
• Annotation, notes communication
• Smirt DieCost ready
• Trim angle check

Multiple import options. Read in the surface and solid data from your CAD system along with any axes and curves. The axis systems and curves are imported with the same name they were given in the CAD system. This allows for easy organization and use of existing data. However, if there were no curves or axes systems available to read, you can easily create them with the tools provided in SMIRT DieLayout.

Press information. A selected press can be loaded. For each die the user has the ability to assign a specific press station. All relevant information, curves, scrap chutes, notes, etc are displayed along
with the part in that station. The part itself can be positioned along the X,Y, or Z axis depending upon the requirements for that particular station. With a click of the mouse, the user can turn on and off various components of the press.

Graphics. Standard orthogonal and isometric views are always available. Once the die layouts are defined, the ability to view each layout is a effortless as clicking on the die layout itself. By doing this, the graphics window will only display what is happening in that stage of the process.

One precise focus. One of the traits that make SMIRT DieLayout unique from other software packages is the fact that it only focuses on one particular aspect of the Die process. Performing only die layout techniques and functions allows the software to be easy to use and intuitive for the user. There is no need for excessive learning of icons, buttons, or functions that have no bearing on the die layout process itself.

Part layout. The user has the tools to do standard positioning, mirroring, copying, analyzing, organizing, etc of the part data. With these tools the user can also create the blank and define the addendum and part addendum. The option exists to define a part as development, final, or redraw. By having multiple definitions, it is possible to perform specific actions depending upon the type of part.

Defining die layouts. For each die there will be individual die layouts. Whether you’re trimming, piercing,
forming, flanging, etc, you define and clearly display what is happening at each stage. The specific color coding, curve display, annotation, and surface creation convey exactly what is going on at that particular stage. The completion of one die layout is carried over to the beginning of the next die layout.

Engineering changes. With the use of “Run Operation All” it is a snap to make changes early in the layout and carry these changes throughout. Using very little user input, the data will be updated for each die layout.

Analysis tools. No system would be complete without analysis tools. Analyze the part data for crucial back draft conditions. Detect and highlight a specified minimum surface radius. Cut a dynamic section and instantly display a “true view” without creating an axis system. All these analysis tools are readily available and easy to use.

Annotation, notes, communication. All die layouts can be further defined with a series of annotation types. to a solid. An urgent note can be displayed each time the file is opened. A comment page can be linked to a common document on the server. Let’s not forget the basic measurement of angles, distances, and ordinate of an axis system. Any of these combinations can be added to your display.

SMIRT DieCost ready. Once the process engineer has defined the entire die layout it can now be read directly into SMIRT DieCost for estimating.

Trim angle check. There is no need to actually trim an area and then analyze it to verify if it meets specified trimming conditions. With the built in function “TAC” (Trim Angle Check), the user has the ability to verify if a condition will be good or not by simply performing a check before actually trimming the area. The system will display a color coded curve within the user defined area to show the conditions based upon certain angles specified in the preferences. A flag note can be used that is linked.