Production plants and assembly systems Automation for the aerospace industry
The aerospace industry is facing increasing production rates, the highest quality requirements and growing cost pressure. Our automation solutions for the aerospace industry combine robotics, digital manufacturing and intelligent process control to create high-performance production systems for aerostructures, composite parts, engine and system components. We tailor production systems to your requirements, whether for purely manual activities or for fully and semi-automated solutions, we analyse, advise and deliver your optimum solution.
Trust of leading companies in the aviation industry
Our automation systems support aerospace companies in the efficient production of complex components and assemblies. From automated assembly lines and robotic solutions to digital production platforms, we realise plant engineering projects with the highest standards of precision, process reliability and stability, scalability and ergonomics.
in modern aircraft production The production environment is changing
Aerospace production is changing rapidly. Manufacturers and suppliers need flexible automation solutions in order to efficiently manage increasing quantities, complex production processes and high quality standards.
Shortage of skilled labour
The shortage of skilled labour is increasing the need for automated production systems. Modern robotic solutions take over repetitive and high-precision work steps in aircraft assembly and simultaneously increase efficiency and process reliability.
Highest quality requirements
The aviation industry has the strictest requirements for precision, documentation and traceability. Automated quality controls and digital inspection systems minimise errors and ensure reproducible production processes.
Scalable production
Increasing production rates in the aviation industry require flexible production lines. Modular automation solutions enable rapid adaptation to new components, variants and production volumes.
Solution areas of FFT Automation technologies for aerospace production
Our solutions combine industrial robotics, intelligent control technology and digital production systems for efficient and future-proof aircraft production.
proof of our expertise References from our portfolio
Our aim is to support companies worldwide in the automation of small sub-areas (production cells) as well as large and complex production processes (production lines and plants). The range of services extends from the design of new production concepts to the optimisation of existing systems and detailed planning, including virtual commissioning, through to the implementation and modernisation of safe processes.
Local surface treatment
Controlled application of media for localised surface treatment using a protected industrial robot, which enables constant and precise process control. End effector for the application of acid or other liquids and solvents. Constructed from lightweight CFRP profiles for rigid and stable support of parts under process load.
- Precise process control for consistent treatment results.
- High-strength FFTlightweight integral end effector on the robot with integrated media supply.
- Acid-resistant walkways, platforms and robust protection for the 16 m long linear axis and the robot.
- Open truss construction for continuous accessibility.
Measurement-based stringer integration
Positioning of large components using measurement-based assembly techniques that enable high absolute precision and can be combined with assembly processes. Integration of different measuring systems for seamless customisation to the task at hand.
- Combination of standard industrial devices with intelligent software packages to increase overall performance
- On-the-fly path correction of robots using external measurement systems
- Integration of the FFT interface, for various measurement systems
- The accuracy of the system is <0.5 mm over a distance of 20 m
- Use of industrial robots in collaborative groups
HRC STATION
The FFTlinetec HRC station enables humans and robots to carry out manufacturing, assembly and measuring tasks together in one working environment. The design is deliberately kept very compact and mobile and combines the highest safety standards with great flexibility for this human-robot collaboration.
- Open access combined with high safety standards.
- Modular and flexibly expandable system with integrated controller without additional control cabinet.
- Customisable in terms of robots, sensors, end effectors and station length.
- Several robots on one linear axis enable parallel and co-operative processes.
iGV Automated guided vehicle systems
FFT offers a comprehensive production solution with iGV networking to reduce integration effort and resources. Thanks to Siemens technology, simple integration into production systems and a one-stop solution for integration, certification and safety is possible. The omnidirectional iGVs transport 1-10 tonnes and can be flexibly extended with lifting units.
- Omnidirectional iGVs with high load capacity.
- Flexible integration into FFT or existing Siemens-based production systems.
- Wide range of options such as fine positioning, lifting units and integrated conveyor technology.
- Freely selectable navigation (SLAM or lane-guided) and fleet management in accordance with VDA 5050.
Final Assembly Moving Line
Movement of production stations using multiple automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in an assembly line for final outfitting and assembly of aircraft components. Automated transport along the production line with coupling of platforms, power supply, lifting devices, integrated testing, etc., as required for each production step, allowing efficient utilisation of equipment for each process step.
- Transport of all necessary elements such as platform, engine suspensions, lifting devices, hydraulic connections, etc.
- Control, visualisation and diagnosis of all AMS by a line control PLC.
- IPC for line and AGV control and data exchange via industrial WLAN.
- Media distribution with minimised docking processes and reduction of cables and hoses.
Edge Sealing
Automated application of sealing material to surfaces and edges using industrial robots. Provision as turnkey solutions including logistics, data management, real-time robot programming if required, quality control and related processes.
- Sealing of CFRP structures or as corrosion protection for aluminium parts.
- Fillet welds, overlaps, edges or surface sealing.
- Typical materials in aerospace quality, but also PVC, fire protection layers and acoustic foams.
- Partially or applicator-guided, depending on requirements.
- Turnkey solutions using extensive Siemens components for control, analysis and monitoring.
Automated machine loading
FFT integrates machining centres - including milling, sanding, turning, laminating and other machines - into automated production and assembly lines.
- Direct connection to the higher-level control system is possible, either as an extension to an existing machine or as a completely new station.
- Integration into the overarching traceability database.
- Automation of loading and unloading to improve ergonomics for employees or to increase the efficiency of a production chain.
- Customised to the task: Human-robot collaboration for open concepts, industrial robots for large and heavy parts.
DataBridge
The DataBridge enables the secure, scalable and efficient transfer of production data to the cloud by connecting shop floor systems directly to the Snowflake AI Data Cloud via standardised interfaces. The solution reduces data silos and increases transparency and analysis capability in production. The benefits include real-time analyses, AI-based forecasts, less downtime, faster decisions and reduced IT costs as the basis for smart manufacturing.
- End-to-end data integration from the shop floor into the Snowflake AI Data Cloud for a secure, standardised data flow.
- Real-time analyses and AI-supported forecasts enable faster decisions and reduce downtime through early fault detection
- Scalable, modular architecture with optimised TCO through lower infrastructure costs and faster ROI.
Let us work with you to automate your production. We look forward to getting in touch with you.
Send us your concept idea, your automation requirements or a description of your production process that you would like us to support you with.
We look forward to presenting our standardised portfolio to you, but also to developing new solutions together with you.
