A generic method to realize long fibers filled and large polymer parts in additive manufacturing

Abstract

A general manufacturing methodology for long fibers filled and large polymer (LFFLP) parts will be proposed, which constitutes the major scientific contribution of the document. The input, output, control and analysis data at each step of the methodology will be specified. Experiments realized in the laboratory of Ecole Centrale de Nantes will demonstrate the relevance and effectiveness of this method applied to a 6-axis robot and the FFF process by showcasing two light and resistant lattice structures. The latter also highlight the capacity of 6-axis robots for orienting the deposition head in order to generate complex trajectories. Finally, perspectives and future research about this subject will be discussed such as the need to develop in-depth analyses of the manufacturing methodology. The possibility of using continuous fibres composites as material feedstock for robotized large dimensions FFF will also be covered.