摘要：A finite element based sensitivity analysis method for preform die shape design in metal forging is developed. The optimization goal is to obtain more uniform deformation within the final forging by controlling the deformation uniformity. The objective function expressed by the effective strain is constructed. The sensitivity equations of the objective function, elemental volume, elemental effective strain rate and the elemental strain rate with respect to the design variables are constituted. The preform die shapes of an H-shaped forging process in axisymmetric deformation are designed using this method.