Abstract:
The invention relates to an end-effector body (210, 252, 310) for a fixture device comprising a first fixing point (218, 262, 318) for attachment to an article (270, 370, 470), wherein the end-effector body (210, 252, 310) comprises a second fixing point (220, 262, 320) for article (270, 370, 470) attachment. The fixing points (218, 220, 262, 318, 320) are arranged to face away from the end-effector body (210, 252, 310) in different directions. The invention also regards an adjustable fixture device (400) comprising such end-effector body (210, 252, 310).
Abstract:
Embodiments of the invention relate to a stringer (108) adapted to transport fluid in an aircraft wing (100). For example, the stringer may be adapted to provide venting to one or more fuel tanks (111) in the aircraft wing, or may be adapted to provide fuel to the one or more fuel tanks. To perform this function, the stringer comprises a duct member (120) providing a duct and a structural member (121) providing an attachment surface for attachment of the stringer to a wing panel (112). Typically, the stringer is formed from a composite material such as carbon fibre reinforced plastic. A method of manufacturing the stringer is also disclosed.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for positioning an end effector relative to a structure. The apparatus may comprise the end effector and a sensor system. The end effector may be configured to perform an operation on the structure. The sensor system may have a plurality of sensors extending outward from the end effector.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for performing an operation (111) on a work surface (116) (116) of a structure (106). The apparatus may comprise a motion platform (122) and an overhead support system (118). The motion platform (122) may be configured to be positioned above the work surface (116) (116) of the structure (106) to perform the operation (111) on the work surface (116) (116). The overhead support system (118) may be configured to carry the motion platform (122) across a floor (107) of a manufacturing environment (100) from a first location (117) to a second location (121).
Abstract:
This method for producing a reinforcing structure comprises: a step for preparing a stringer that has a fiber exposed surface; a step for arranging a conductive protective material so as to cover at least a part of the fiber exposed surface; a step for arranging the stringer on a skin that has an uncured resin component; and a step for curing the skin after the step for arranging the stringer. The conductive protective material contains a composite material that is obtained by combining a resin component and a conductive fiber component. The step for curing the skin comprises a step wherein the skin and the conductive protective material are cured at the same time. This method for producing a reinforcing structure is able to prevent edge growth without increasing the number of production steps.
Abstract:
An attachment (600) for an end effector (602). The attachment (600) may include a clamp (628) and a foot (630) adhesively bonded to an edge (640) of the clamp (628) and having a set of interlocking features (642) that form a mechanical interlock (644) with the clamp (628).
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for visualizing an assembly of parts for an aircraft. A shop order instance is identified for the assembly of parts for the aircraft. A volume is identified for the shop order instance. The assembly of parts is displayed within the volume in context with a number of assemblies of other parts within the volume.
Abstract:
A winglet comprising a tubular main spar with forward and aft main spar webs joined by upper and lower main spar caps; a front spar with a front spar web, an upper front spar cap, and a lower front spar cap; an upper skin joined to the upper main spar cap and the upper front spar cap; and a lower skin joined to the lower main spar cap and the lower front spar cap. The winglet is manufactured by co-curing the upper skin to the upper main spar cap and the upper front spar cap; and co-curing the lower skin to the lower main spar cap and the lower front spar cap.
Abstract:
A complex-shaped, three-dimensional fiber reinforced composite trailing edge structure may be formed by using counteracting pressures applied to a structural lay-up of wetted fibers placed onto pressurizable members to form continuous fore and aft loops. In turn, the loops may be structurally functional to transfer loads from the trailing edge structure to a wing center section. The trailing structure may include may include fillers and/or a metallic insert, wherein the metallic insert may provide a lightening strike capability for the trailing edge structure.