BendSubmit

Bendsubmit is a proposed data submission protocol and data model for describing bend-related geometry and manufacturing parameters in sheet metal workflows. It is intended to standardize how bend geometry and associated process data are described and exchanged between design software and fabrication systems.

The term arises in discussions of CAD/CAM interoperability, where the goal is to enable consistent communication of bending requirements across the design-to-manufacturing chain. Bendsubmit focuses on aligning design intent with fabrication capabilities by capturing both geometric details and process metadata in a uniform format.

Core concepts of bendsubmit include a structured description of bend geometry and corresponding process information. Typical data elements cover radius of curvature, bend angle, leg lengths, wall thickness, material, bend allowance, K-factor, tooling requirements, tolerances, surface finish, batch and revision identifiers, and provenance. Data exchange is designed around a JSON or YAML based schema, with an API that supports endpoints such as submit, status, and result. The protocol emphasizes REST-style interactions, authentication, versioning, and validation against a formal BendSubmit schema to ensure consistency and traceability.

Applications of bendsubmit aim to support automated design-to-fabrication pipelines, enable accurate simulation of bending operations, and improve reproducibility and traceability of manufactured parts. Adoption would facilitate interoperability among CAD, CAM, ERP, and PDM systems, though it remains a developing concept with varying levels of tooling support and community endorsement.

See also: sheet metal bending, CAD/CAM data exchange standards, data interchange formats.