Traditionally, large airframe structures have been assembled on hard tooling, a laborious unforgiving process. Beginning with the C-17, servo-assisted positioning tools have been used to enable faster fit-up, and better understanding of best fit options. Positioner technology has been used in large structure assembly for the 777, and the next-generation 737, and is now being implemented on other transport and civil aviation aircraft. While returning benefit to the airframe manufacturer in terms of improved fit-up and reduced cycle time, these systems are expensive and are not generally adaptable to change in product form or market demand. This paper provides an overview of positioner development and present status, and describes a series of options and initiatives that can make the technology less expensive, and easier to install, use, and maintain.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Next Generation Assembly Positioners


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Aerofast Conference & Exposition ; 1998



    Publication date :

    1998-09-15




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




    Next Generation Assembly Positioners

    Bowler, M. / Herigstad, D. / Izzard, N. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998



    Robotic welding utilizing servo controlled positioners

    Mangold,V.L. / Kohol,US | Automotive engineering | 1988