Generic Part Design (GPD) & Additive Manufacturing (AM)
GPD and AM technologies enable previously unrealisable structural designs and therefore unimagined functionalisations and weight reductions. For example, bionically inspired structures can be produced that were previously impossible to manufacture.
AM offers the possibility of functional or component integration, flexibilisation and user-oriented design of load-bearing structures. For example, connecting elements can be omitted or electrical or ventilation ducts can be integrated in a single work step during production. AM technologies enable more material-efficient production of lightweight structures: the material is only used where it is needed based on the requirements.
The use of different materials (e.g. light metal, plastic), the partial use of (local) fibre reinforcements and the hybridisation of components open up further possibilities. A high degree of design freedom also enables the manufacture of individualised and specific lightweight products, independent of product-specific tools and machines. In this way, decentralised, low-tool and therefore customer-oriented, flexible production is possible under the appropriate framework conditions.
