CNC incremental sheet forming of an axially symmetric specimen and the locus of optimization

CNC incremental sheet forming is a new flexible sheet forming process. It d oes not need a dedicated die and can form sheet parts with a higher forming limit and of complicated shape by use of a CNC device. This process is sui ted to the forming of sheet parts of small volume, diversification and comp licated shape in space-flight, automobile and civil production. Taking the are locus as an example in this paper, axially symmetrical forming is analy zed and the method that controls the how of metal to obtain more even defor mation is discussed. The analysis provides the theoretical foundation for t he selection of the forming locus in CNC incremental forming. (C) 2000 Else vier Science S.A. All rights reserved.