Dimensional and Positional Locations for Manual Aircraft Repair Processes(1000-686)

Triton Systems Inc, in partnership with BAE Systems (BAES), General Electric Inspection Technologies (GEIT) and Northrop Grumman, proposes to integrate BAES' automated inspection "crawler" robot and laser tracker system with various metrology and non-destructive evaluation techniques to enable reverse-engineering and "on-wing" repair and overhaul of airframe components. The proposed TSI solution will convert the "crawler" robot coordinate data acquired via GEIT measurement devises to CAD format to create data files for reverse-engineering of aircraft components for the purpose of repair or replacement. It will also enable the opportunity to inspection and repair and/or remanufacture airframe components without the need for disassembly. The combined solution will create a system that allows a technician to map defined surfaces, relevant reference and attachment points, as well as identify surface and sub-surface defects to enable evaluation for repair or replacement. The resulting CAD file can then be used to drive a cost-effective repair process (e.g. automated welding), or fabrication of a remanufactured replacement article, all without first removing the sub-assembly in which the damage lies. Triton continues to work closely with Northrop Grumman to develop "on-wing" solutions for difficult aircraft repair problems, such as encountered with the Aft Decks on B2 "Spirit" bombers.