Asymmetric two points incremental forming: Improving surface quality and geometric accuracy by tool path optimization

Asymmetric sheet incremental forming is a relatively recent sheet metal forming process introduced to reduce the costs of sheet metal forming when low volume batches, customized parts or prototypes have to be manufactured. In recent years, this forming process saw a very fast development, thanks to the researches conducted by many international research centres considering different process configurations and part geometries. The present work deals with the optimization of the tool path in two point sheet incremental forming with full die, in a particular asymmetric sheet incremental forming configuration. The aim of the study is the experimental evaluation and optimization of the tool path, in order to reproduce an automotive component with the best dimensional accuracy, the best surface quality and the lowest sheet thinning.