Precision Automated Rapid Scanning Electronics Replicator (PARSER)

The US Air Force maintains a wide variety of computerized systems embedded in both ground-based and airborne systems. These systems run on circuit cards, which occasionally must be repaired, replaced, or upgraded. Critical to this process is the fabrication of Interface Test Adapters (ITAs), which allow a given circuit card to be tested outside of its parent assembly. ITAs must accurately replicate all connections to the parent assembly to allow proper input and output through the card. Currently, the actual circuit card is needed to ensure that the ITA meets tolerance. This process is time consuming and leaves the parent assembly without a critical piece of hardware for the duration of ITA fabrication and testing. In Phase II, ADA Technologies proposes to continue to develop a “Precision Automated Rapid Scanning Electronics Replicator (PARSER)” by automating existing high-quality scanning technology inside a controlled scanning environment, paired with a high-fidelity 3D printer to precisely reproduce the scanned data into a usable model. The controlled scanning environment will utilize robotic movement of the scanning device to maximize scan quality and minimize user interaction. The system will utilize in-house software to reliably scan, convert to 3D model, and print the replicate circuit card.