The simulation of deformation processes has become an important tool for the current process optimization. It can be supported significantly by modern optical measuring methods based on digital image processing providing full-field information of 3D surface geometry (ATOS) and deformation and strain behavior of components under load (ARAMIS and PONTOS) or formed sheet metal parts (ARGUS). These optical systems have become important tools in industrial product development cycles and in the last years and together with the finite element analysis they have significant potential for quality improvement and optimization of development time for products and production. As part of complex process chains smooth interfaces to conventional CAD/CAM and numerical simulation systems are of particular importance. The application note presents the use of 3D surface geometry data of tools and formed sheet metal parts as input for numerical simulations as well as for the verification of simulations. Furthermore, the digital comparison of measured and simulated strain and thickness reduction distributions is evaluated. We would like to thank Salzgitter Mannesmann Forschung for their support. | 
