This study proposes a novel approach to predict the shape of hardened metal workpieces using acoustic responses processed by a deep convolutional neural network (CNN), aiming to advance automated straightening in manufacturing. Tool steel 1.2379 workpieces of varying widths (24 mm, 90 mm, 200 mm) were struck using a custom-built device, with acoustic responses captured and transformed into scalograms via Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT). A 40-layer CNN predicted 5 × 9 shape matrices, validated by 3D scans. The dataset (219 shape states, 3396 recordings) was evaluated using leave-one-workpiece-out cross-validation, comparing the CNN against baseline models (linear regression, random forest, shallow CNN, XGBoost). CNN achieved competitive accuracy, demonstrating the feasibility of acoustic-based shape prediction. As a non-invasive, cost-effective complement to 3D scanning, this method offers innovative potential for multi-modal quality control systems in manufacturing.

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