Robot-Based Hybrid Manufacturing Process Chain

The combination of additive and subtractive processes using an industrial robot in a hybrid production concept is an innovative approach in manufacturing technology. An improvement in the near net shape geometry production processes is achieved by using a wire-based laser metal deposition process with the added benefit of saving resources. Assisted by qualified CAM tools and an interposed laser line scanning, this process chain enables production of tool and dies, especially for automotive industry and manufacturing of parts made of nickelbased alloys for aerospace industry. This expands the workpiece material application range for robot-based milling. For the robot-machining processes, extended strategies in CAM path planning have been qualified focusing on increased machining-process quality. The system technology and sub-processes have been integrated into a robot-cell, enabling a hybrid part production process in a single workpiece clamping.Mechanical Engineerin