Abstract
The present work investigates how the choice of the scanning patterns can affect the final shapes of 3D components manufactured by laser-origami with a High-Power Diode Laser (HPDL). The experimental approach allowed the achievement of high bending angles, also avoiding any distortion on the surface of AISI 304 stainless steel workpiece. Optimization of the operational parameters led to the best prototype of the 3D components, with the closest respect of the strictest dimensional and geometrical tolerances. In addition, a thermo-mechanical model to predict the final shape of the 3D components was developed. The numerical model, implemented by Finite Element Method (FEM), was found to be a reliable tool in predicting the final shape of the prototypes, matching with a great deal of accuracy the experimental results. In particular, the model allowed the estimation of the temperature distribution and nodal displacements of the components varying both the setting of the laser parameters and the choice of the scanning patterns.