Manufacturing of Lightweight Components by Metal Forming

Due to constantly increasing ecological concerns and demands for higher performance, lightweight construction is a key factor to success mainly in the transportation sector but also in general engineering, machine-tools, and architecture. This paper deals with current and future contributions of forming technology to the manufacture of lightweight components and structures. As design, materials, and manufacturing processes have to be considered integratively, it is pointed out which issues arise in the production of load adapted designs and using high strength materials. Frame and shell structure concepts as well as their related forming processes are presented. Finally, fields of further research are identified.