Abstract
A method was developed to enhance the bending strength of vehicle structural components by applying the work-hardening characteristics of steel sheet. When stamping the components, a corrugated shape is first formed, then the relevant part is flattened. Doing this lessens the reduction of sheet thickness and causes application of strain. The significance for yield strength of steel sheet obtained by these processes was clarified. When applied to hat-shaped components, the processes were demonstrated to have an effect on bending strength. It is considered that this approach will realize a reduction in vehicle body weight.
