Automated installation of inserts in honeycomb sandwich materials

Threaded inserts are a standard connecting element for sandwich components, which are widely used for aircraft interior. Therefore, inserts are installed in large quantities. However, installation is mostly done manually. An automation of the insert installation process yields high potentials for cost savings, increased output and increased productivity. Tight joining tolerances, highly individual components and quality requirements, however, pose challenges for insert placement, component referencing and program generation. In this paper a system for automated installation of potted inserts is presented. An automation concept is developed based on an analysis of the inserts, sandwich components and joining tolerances. For validation the concept is implemented in a demonstrator. Achievable accuracy, the system’s robustness, as well as the joining process are examined. Further optimizations are discussed and future steps presented.

DDC Class

620: Ingenieurwissenschaften

More Funding Information

funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy of Germany (BMWi)

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publishedVersion

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https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

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1-s2.0-S2351978920319223-main.pdf

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1.2 MB

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Adobe PDF

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Automated installation of inserts in honeycomb sandwich materials