An overlooked innovation in metal forming: multi-readiness evaluation of incremental sheet forming

Abstract

Abstract

Incremental sheet forming (ISF) is a dieless and highly flexible manufacturing technology that enables the production of customized and low-volume components through localized plastic deformation. Despite extensive academic interest and an expanding body of research, the industrial adoption of ISF remains limited. Existing studies predominantly address isolated technical aspects such as formability, accuracy, toolpath strategies, or thermal assistance; however, they provide limited insight into the broader developmental, integration, manufacturing, and commercial factors that determine the true industrial applicability of the process. This gap highlights the need for a structured, multidimensional assessment capable of positioning ISF within a wider technological and industrial context. This article introduces a Multi‑Readiness Evaluation (MRE) framework that integrates four complementary methodologies: Technology Readiness Level (TRL), Integration Readiness Level (IRL), Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL), and Commercial Readiness Index (CRI). The evaluation is based on a systematic review of published scientific literature, supplemented where necessary by evidence from industrial implementations. Each readiness dimension is analyzed independently to identify maturity indicators, critical gaps, and constraints that currently constitute major limitations to the broader deployment of ISF. The findings reveal notable asymmetries between technological progress and industrial preparedness, underscoring the need for standardized process protocols, stronger system‑level integration pathways, and clearer manufacturing guidelines. The study provides a consolidated perspective on the current state of ISF and outlines strategic directions for future research and industrial deployment.