Evaluation of Multi-axis Robotic Manufactured Thermoplastic Composite Structure Using Stamp-forming Process

Abstract

This study developed the in-situ stamp-forming process using the multi-axis robotic arm to fabricate thermal composite parts. Optimal fabrication parameters with the multi-axis robotic arm were determined using finite element analysis and these parameters were further refined through the practical manufacturing process. A comparison between the manufactured parts and finite element analysis results was conducted regarding thickness uniformity and wrinkle distribution to confirm the validity of the finite element analysis. Additionally, to evaluate the formability of the manufactured composite parts, measurements of crystallinity and porosity were taken. Consequently, this study establishes the feasibility of the In-situ stamp-forming consolidation using a robotic arm and verifies the potential for producing composite parts through this process.