Robotic system for additive manufacturing of large and complex parts

In this paper the use of industrial robots in combination with additive manufacturing technologies for the production of large parts is presented. The paper summarizes the results of an ongoing major joint project being completed by industrial companies and research organizations. The objective is to develop a “genuine” three-dimensional additive robotic system that cost effectively builds large models and molds from any thermoplastic material with volumes of 1.000×1.000×1.000 mm
³
. The system combines hereby the advantages of both worlds - flexible and cost effective industrial robots with high innovative additive manufacturing. In particular, the manufacturing technology, the system architecture and the motion planning are presented.