Automated Aircraft Paint Strip Cell

Document Number: 890936

Date Published: April 1989

Author(s):
Thomas Edward Byers - Ogden Air Logistics Command, Ogden Air Force Base, UT
Robert Pauli - Pauli & Griffin Co., Vacaville, CA

Abstract:
In April 1986, the U.S. Air Force selected Ogden ALC (Air Logistics Center) to investigate automated/robotic capability for U.S. Air Force Logistics Aircraft Maintenance Divisions to plastic media blast (PMB) F-4 and F-16 aircraft. This paper discusses the three phases of the contract: Phase I~process selection and optimization (completed July 1987). Different stripping methods were evaluated before selecting plastic media blast (PMB) as the most viable process. Design configuration mandated incorporation into existing facility. Phase II~system fabrication, test and validation (estimated completion by April 1989). Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio was awarded contract for design of bench model. Design requirements to include a one-time strip clean operation. The U.S. Air Force will review vision system translation by the robot and give final "buy off" of the operation. Phase III~installation and verification (estimated completion date is December 1989). This phase is the final installation of a working unit at Hill AFB, Utah.

File Size: 563K
Product Status: In Stock

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