Abstract: Four promising laser assisted manufacturing approaches are introduced, including die-less laser forming, laser shock processing, laser micro-machining, and laser based direct metal deposition. The chief working principal, modeling methods, influencing factors, and metrology means are investigated to reveal the fundamental focus. The potentiality in forming of low-volume and high-variety sheet metal and tube components of high-strength material is revealed, together with the rapid prototyping of metal components. The enhancement of surface strength of curved utility shows strong possibility with laser shock processing, while micro-machining with ultra-short pulsed laser supply efficient tools for various materials.

Key words: Die-less laser forming, Influencing factors, Laser micro-machining, Laser shock processing, Mechanism