Autonomous robotic system for inspecting aircraft fuselages
Inspecting aircraft structures is an extremely sensitive, safety-critical and time-consuming process. Our exhibit demonstrates how cracks in the fuselage section of an Airbus A380 can be automatically detected. To achieve this, we have successfully scaled a materials mechanics laboratory test bench to test real components of a real-world fuselage.
Using a robot-guided sensor combined with an AI model, our system can independently detect cracks or faults that may arise during operation. The system delivers significant time and cost savings in the certification process for new components and during subsequent regular maintenance. The use of the robot means inspection findings are fully reproducible and objectively documented, compared to manual assessments.
Link:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute for Frontier Materials on Earth and in Space
Email contact-dlr@DLR.de
Credits: ©DLR