Aero Structure Assembly and Systems Installation Research Group

Aero-structure assembly and automation

In most aerospace assembly operations we do not know exactly where the part is, we do not know exactly what shape the part is and when we have performed an operation we have changed the part’s shape. To automate a process, we need a system that is capable of compensating for this in real-time. This requires a close coupling of metrology, manipulation systems, processes and CAD data. Current research projects within the group are focusing on the development of flexible distributed control architectures that can support both assembly and equipping processes.

Current projects include:

• The development of distributed control architectures for multi robot assembly systems;

• The development of flexible cell architectures for aero-engine manufacture;

• Metrology assisted assembly.

Systems installation

The installation of systems such as electrics, hydraulics, bleed air and fuel is costly and time consuming being an almost entirely manual process. Conventional automation is difficult to apply and is not cost effective due to factors such as accessibility, process frequency and part variability. To increase the level of automation will require breakthrough technologies such as new robot architectures, human/robot collaboration and improved manual processes.

Current projects include:

• Installation of movables using human/robot co-operation;

• Flexible robotic drilling during wing assembly;

• Wing equipping process benchmarking;

• Automation technology selection and validation for equipping.

We work with the leading aerospace companies including BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce and we have a strategic relationship with Airbus Operations.