Design and manufacturing of lightweight composite structures based on continuous fiber reinforced composites 3D printing

Resin matrix composite lightweight structure has the advantages of low density and high performance, for use in lightweight applications such as aerospace, high-speed trains, ships and others. However, the disadvantages of conventional forming processes, such as complex process, long process period and high cost, have limited the wide applications of resin matrix composite lightweight structure. 3D printing is a new forming process of parts, and it is possible to realize integrated manufacturing of high performance composite lightweight structure. This paper reviews the research status of resin matrix composite lightweight structure 3D printing, and meanwhile presents a new integrated manufacturing process of high performance resin matrix composite lightweight structure based on continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites 3D printing.