The aerospace industry relies on advanced materials, such as composites, to manufacture lightweight and durable aircraft components. The production of these components requires precise and consistent processes, making it an ideal candidate for industrial automation. One key area where automation is used in aerospace composite manufacturing is in the layering and curing of composite materials. This process involves laying layers of composite material, such as carbon fiber or glass fiber, onto a mold and then curing it under high pressure and temperature. Robotic systems are often used to handle the composite material and lay it onto the mold with high accuracy and repeatability. Another area where automation is used is in the inspection of composite components. Machine vision systems, which use cameras and software to analyze images, can be used to inspect the surface finish and dimensions of composite parts to ensure they meet stringent quality standards. In addition to improving efficiency and consistency, the use of automation in aerospace composite manufacturing also has safety benefits. Many of the tasks involved in composite manufacturing, such as handling hazardous materials or working in extreme environments, can be performed by machines rather than humans. Overall, the use of automation in aerospace composite manufacturing has helped the industry produce high-quality components far more efficiently and safely. As the demand for advanced materials in the aerospace industry continues to grow, it is likely that the use of automation will increase in this sector. Intellimech’s team has decades of experience with the engineering, deployment, and support of cutting-edge composites processing technologies to achieve our partners’ target objectives. Contact us today to start the conversation about how Intellimech’s engineers can leverage our talents to help with realizing your goals.
Giant Steps in Advancing Manufacturing, Microns at a Time
Additive manufacturing methods, especially 3-D printing, are quickly evolving to become commonly employed means of both prototyping and production. The opportunities presented by this unique method of manufacturing can include the ability to create complex parts and geometries that aren’t feasible, or even possible, using some traditional machining or fabrication technologies. In this article from MIT Technology Review, a revolutionary new jet fuel nozzle built by GE Aviation using a metal sintering additive process is explored. Achieving successful output using an additive manufacturing process will often combine many specific technical challenges: precision motion control, high-performance I/O systems for controlling processes, and powerful yet straightforward control and visualization of the entire system. Our engineering team at Intellimech has the in-depth experience needed in several additive manufacturing processes to help your application be successful, whether you’re interested in optimizing your existing system or seeking a completely new methodology to apply to your specific needs. Connect with us today and let us help you get started engineering a comprehensive solution to achieve your goals.
Creating Opportunities with Additive Manufacturing
New technologies can offer new opportunities and additive manufacturing is no exception to that principle. At Intellimech, our engineers have a proven track record of successfully delivering solutions for various additive manufacturing processes, including fiber placement and tape laying for composites (carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer) and stereolithography. One group that is taking advantage of what additive manufacturing can bring to the table is the Aerospace & Defense industry. In this article from MIT Technology Review, the unique benefits offered by incorporating this technology are analyzed.