Abstract
Incremental sheet forming is used to form metal sheets on massive dies. However, the waste and time lost due to the machining of dies can be a problem for both companies and the environment. Additive manufacturing is thus a potential alternative to classical machining of dies, but these complex geometries could be challenging for classical layer-by-layer 3D printing techniques. This paper will present an innovative process based on a 3D printing technology using 3-axis systems and a pellet extruder combined with the generation of non-planar trajectories in order to achieve good surface quality. PLA-based parts were realised to evaluate surface quality and mechanical properties. With such a technique, the obtained 3D printed parts were closer to the expected CAD geometries and smoother top surfaces were obtained. These improvements have been made possible through the development of specific post-processors and printing strategies in order to replicate the behaviour of a 3D printer at a larger scale, which is a current challenge in robotic 3D printing.