On the Geometrical Accuracy in Incremental Sheet Forming

The industrial application of incremental sheet forming (ISF) still stays behind the expectations due to the low geometrical accuracy of the produced parts as well as the insufficient predictability of the forming result. This is due to the fact that some mechanisms which cause the geometrical deviations are not fully understood. Many investigations have already been carried out to determine which types of stresses induced by ISF influence the forming result. This paper tries to systematically categorize selected typical geometric deviations and to review their underlying mechanisms based on current literature as well as their own experience. The intention is to provide a structured basis for future scientific discussion and to stimulate an exchange of experience, with the goal that a better understanding may help to improve the geometrical accuracy of parts manufactured by incremental sheet forming.