Flexible Tooling Concepts for Adaptable Production
We develop flexible and resource-efficient tooling technologies for modern forming processes and implement new concepts in collaboration with research partners and companies through research projects and demonstrators.
New Tooling Concepts for Forming Processes with a Wide Range of Variations
Conventional forming tools are typically designed for a specific part geometry and a defined process. With small batch sizes, an increasing variety of variants, and short development cycles, this results in significant effort required to manufacture and procure new tools.
The Alternative Tooling Technology research area therefore investigates new approaches for adaptable, resource-efficient, and functionally integrated tools. These include adjustable tool structures, additive manufacturing processes, alternative tool materials, and the integration of sensor and actuator functions.
We combine design, numerical simulation, and experimental investigations. Together with partners from academia and industry, we use these findings to develop application-oriented demonstrators and new research projects.
Areas for Collaboration
We are seeking partners to address research questions related to flexible tools, additive tool manufacturing, alternative tool materials, integrated sensor technology, and the experimental validation of new forming concepts.
Our Research Focus Areas
Transformer Tools
Segmented and adjustable tooling structures allow for adaptation to different part geometries. The goal is to increase flexibility in handling different variants and reduce the need for product-specific tools.
Woodworking Tools
We are investigating wood and wood-based materials as resource-efficient alternatives to conventional tooling materials. Our focus is on structural design, manufacturability, and performance under real-world process loads.
