Swiss MRO service provider, SR
Technics, is partnering with Invert Robotics to implement an innovative robotics
solution to enhance its aircraft maintenance inspections.
Developed by Invert Robotics, the
robot employs a patented mechanism that explores the airframe surface to assess
the required maintenance needs.
Equipped with a high-resolution
inspection camera, the robot records and transmits video images to a
ground-based screen, which are then analyzed by SR Technics engineers. The use
of this new solution enables efficient visual inspections both on the tarmac as
well as in the hangar. In addition, the inspection images can be used for more
detailed repair assessments and as a record of the current state of the aircraft
for future comparisons.
The automated inspections can
help reduce the inspection time from hours to minutes. Furthermore, the robot's
capabilities can be enhanced by adding functions such as ultra-sound and
thermographic testing that allow robots to perform many labour-intensive and
tedious maintenance inspection processes more efficiently. Freeing up skilled
aircraft engineers to manage more complex tasks helps speeding the process, and
reducing cost of the overall maintenance process.
Jakob Straub,
Head of Aircraft Services and Line Maintenance at SR Technics commented: “At SR
Technics we are constantly seeking new and innovative solutions to make our
maintenance process even more efficient. Whilst helping us to improve the safety
environment for our employees by providing alternatives to the work at height,
this new technology enables us to demonstrate advancement in speed and quality
which will benefit our customers with greater accuracy and a more complete
inspection result.”
Neil Fletcher,
Managing Director at Invert Robotics said: “Having developed the world’s first
inspection robot of its kind, Invert Robotics has evolved to deliver tools and
technologies to difficult-to-access areas, quickly and safely. The opportunity
to evolve from inside concave surfaces to outside convex surfaces brought the
aviation industry into clear focus as a significant market for Invert Robotics.”
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