Additive manufacturing enables design flexibility, near-net-shape manufacturing, mass customization, flexible manufacturing and reduced lead times. Hybrid AM using industrial robotics can improve production flexibility by combining multiple manufacturing processes in a single manufacturing cell.
The aim of SoftDREAM is to develop a generic software solution for robot based AM with advanced tool path generation, process parameter optimization, simulation capabilities and an interface for real time monitoring.
Robot based hybrid additive manufacturing is based on the use of 6-axis industrial robots and tool changers to print thermoplastic, metal, concrete, composite and even multi-material parts.
SoftDREAM, short for Software tools for hybrid robot based additive manufacturing for industrial applications, will develop software tools unlocking the full potential of hybrid AM based on industrial robotics. The project brings together Research Institutes of Sweden, ESTIA Institute of Technology, TU Braunschweig, Volkswagen Group, Aerospace Valley and Spectrum Technology.
The results will lead to improved agility and responsiveness by reducing lead times in production, prototyping and tool manufacturing, particularly in the European automotive, aerospace, construction and manufacturing industries.
The project is financed by EIT Manufacturing, an innovation a community funded by the European Union, as a part of the Additive Manufacturing for Full Flexibility flagship.
