An off-line optimization of a sheet-metal press line is performed with improved production performances, both in terms of increased production rate and smoother robot motions. Smooth motions prevent the sheet-metal to slide out of position or even fall out, thereby causing lengthy down times. The simulation based method use a process optimizer connected to a time synchronized virtual manufacturing model including real industrial control systems, e.g. PLC. The key benefit herein is that all tuned control system parameters can be directly downloaded to the real press line without any post-processing or transformations. The challenge to find suitable optimization algorithms for a press line that handle highly nonlinear, discontinuous functions; considerable number of parameters; and long evaluation times is reached.