Carriage and operating frame system and method of assembling a structure

Abstract

A cradle and operating frame system and method of assembling a structure are presented. The cradle and operating frame system includes a plurality of panel cradles, each panel cradle including a frame configured to act as a positioning plate to a panel and a guide feature configured to join with at least one other panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to assembling large structures, and more particularly to reducing the cost and time for assembling large structures and performing manufacturing operations on large structures. BACKGROUND

[0002] In some methods of forming an aircraft, individual fuselage panels are assembled to form a fuselage. Manufacturing operations are performed on the fuselage panels during formation of the fuselage.

[0003] To assemble the fuselage, the fuselage panels are received, removed from any backing material, and attached to a plurality of assembly tools. Each fuselage panel is directed to the plurality of assembly tools or to each other.

[0004] The assembly and manufacturing processes take a significant amount of time and resources. The assembly tools can utilize a significant amount of valuable manufacturing floor volume.

[0005] Therefore, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus that takes into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as well as possibly other issues. SUMMARY

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method of assembling a structure. A transport assembly including a plurality of panel carriers is received, each panel carrier holding a panel of a plurality of panels. The plurality of panel carriers are connected to form an operations platform surrounding the plurality of panels. At least one manufacturing operation is performed on at least one panel of the plurality of panels by the operations platform.

[0007] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method of assembling a structure. A panel is attached to a panel carrier having a frame and a directing feature. The panel carrier holding the panel is connected to a second panel carrier holding a second panel to form a carrier and operations frame system surrounding a plurality of panels including the panel and the second panel carrier. At least one manufacturing operation is performed on the panel by an operations platform of the panel carrier.

[0008] Yet another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a carrier and operations frame system. The carrier and operations frame system includes a plurality of panel carriers, each panel carrier including a frame configured to act as a positioning plate for a panel and a directing feature configured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method 1400 of assembling a structure 1306, the method comprising:

[0010] receiving 1402 a transport assembly 1330 including a plurality of panel carriers 1308, each panel carrier holding a panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 of a plurality of panels 1304;

[0011] connecting 1404 the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to form an operation platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304; and

[0012] performing 1406, by the operation platform 1372, at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324 of the plurality of panels 1304.

[0013] Advantageously, the method 1400 further comprises:

[0014] attaching 1410 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 using a respective temporary fitting 1340, 1342, 1344, or 1346 to form the shipping assembly 1330; and

[0015] shipping 1412 the shipping assembly 1330 prior to connecting the plurality of panel carriers 1308.

[0016] Preferably, the method 1400 further comprises:

[0017] indexing 1408 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308; and

[0018] attaching 1410 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 using a respective temporary fitting 1340, 1342, 1344, or 1346 to form the shipping assembly 1330.

[0019] Preferably, the method 1400 is a method wherein connecting 1414 the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to form an operation platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304 aligns the plurality of panels 1304 relative to one another.

[0020] Preferably, the method 1400 further comprises:

[0021] moving 1415 at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304 using a panel manipulation arm 1388 connected to the operation platform 1372 to position the at least one panel within a desired tolerance relative to an adjacent panel.

[0022] Preferably, the method 1400 is a method in which 1418 performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the at least one panel 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 includes fastening 1380 the plurality of panels 1304 together.

[0023] Preferably, the method is a method in which 1419 performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324 includes attaching a plurality of frames 226 to the at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324.

[0024] Preferably, the method 1400 further comprises:

[0025] Positioning 1416 an operational assembly 1382 to an operational position of the operational platform 1372, wherein the operational assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390.

[0026] Preferably, the method 1400 is a method in which the structure 1306 is a fuselage 1394 of an aircraft 1396.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method 1500 of assembling a structure 1306, the method comprising:

[0028] Attaching 1502 a panel 1318 to a panel carrier 1310 having a frame 1348 and a guide feature 1350;

[0029] Connecting 1504 the panel carrier 1310 holding the panel 1318 to a second panel carrier 1314 holding a second panel 1322 to form a carrier and operational frame system 1300 about a plurality of panels 1304 including the panel 1318 and the second panel carrier 1314; and

[0030] Performing 1506 at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the panel 1318 by an operational platform 1372 of the panel carrier 1310.

[0031] Advantageously, the method 1500 further comprises:

[0032] Transporting 1510 the panel 1318 on the panel carrier 1310 prior to connecting the panel carrier 1310 to the second panel carrier 1314.

[0033] Preferably, the method 1500 further comprises:

[0034] Guiding 1508 the panel 1318 to the panel carrier 1310 prior to attaching the panel 1318 to the panel carrier 1310.

[0035] Preferably, the method 1500 is a method in which connecting 1512 the panel carrier 1310 to the second panel carrier 1314 aligns the panel 1318 with the second panel 1322.

[0036] Preferably, the method 1500 further comprises:

[0037] moving 1513 at least one of the panel 1318 or the second panel 1322 using a panel manipulator arm 1388 connected to the carrier and operations frame system 1300 to position the panel 1318 relative to the second panel 1322 within a desired tolerance.

[0038] Preferably, the method 1500 is a method in which 1514 the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 is performed by a robotic arm 1386 connected to the panel carrier 1310.

[0039] Preferably, the method is a method in which 1515 performing at least one manufacturing operation on the panel 1318 by the operations platform 1372 of the panel carrier 1310 includes attaching a plurality of frames 226 to the panel 1318.

[0040] Preferably, the method 1500 further comprises:

[0041] inserting 1516 an operations assembly 1382 into an operations location 1352 of the panel carrier 1310, wherein the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 is performed from the operations location 1352.

[0042] Preferably, the method 1500 is a method in which 1518 the operations assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390, the method further comprising:

[0043] securing the operations assembly 1382 to the operations location 1352 using a modular connector.

[0044] Preferably, the method 1500 is a method in which 1520 the operations assembly 1382 includes a robotic end effector, and wherein performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the panel 1318 includes performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1382 using the robotic end effector.

[0045] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a carrier and operations frame system 1300 comprises:

[0046] The plurality of panel carriers 1308, each panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 includes a frame 1348, 1354, 1360, 1366 configured to act as a positioning plate to a panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 and a guide feature 1350, 1356, 1362, 1368 configured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308.

[0047] Advantageously, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which at least one panel carrier 1310, 1312 includes a plurality of operations locations 1352, 1358 configured to receive a respective operations assembly 1382.

[0048] Preferably, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which each operations assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390 configured to connect to an operations location 1352, 1358.

[0049] Preferably, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which at least one operations assembly includes a robotic arm 1386 for performing a manufacturing operation 1328 from a respective operations location.

[0050] Preferably, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which each panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 is configured to support a respective panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 during transport 1326, staging 1327, and manufacturing operations 1328.

[0051] Preferably, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which the plurality of panel carriers 1308 interface together to form an operations platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304.

[0052] Preferably, the carrier and operations frame system 1300 is a system in which the plurality of panel carriers 1308 that interface together form a positioning plate 1370 for the plurality of panels 1304.

[0053] Features and functions can be implemented independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure or combined in other embodiments, where further details can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0054] The novel features of the illustrative implementations are set forth with particularity in the claims that follow. These implementations, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with objects, further objects and features thereof, can be understood better from the following detailed description of illustrative implementations when read with the appended drawings in which:

[0055] Figure 1 is an illustration of an aircraft in which illustrative implementations can be implemented;

[0056] Figure 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of a carrier and operating framework system enclosing a plurality of panels according to an illustrative implementation;

[0057] Figure 3 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0058] Figure 4 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a guide feature of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0059] Figure 5 is an illustration of an exterior perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0060] Figure 6 is an illustration of an exterior perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0061] Figure 7 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0062] Figure 8 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a guide feature of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0063] Figure 9 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0064] Figure 10 is an illustration of an interior perspective view of a guide feature of a transport assembly according to an illustrative implementation;

[0065] Figure 11 is an illustration of a partial end view of an operating assembly within a carrier and operating framework system enclosing a plurality of panels according to an illustrative implementation;

[0066] Figure 12 is an illustration of a side view of an operating assembly within a carrier and operating framework system enclosing a plurality of panels according to an illustrative implementation;

[0067] Figure 13 is an illustration of a block diagram of a manufacturing environment in which illustrative implementations can be implemented;

[0068] Figure 14 is an illustration of a flowchart of a method of assembling a structure according to an illustrative implementation;

[0069] Figure 15 is an illustration of a flowchart of a method of assembling a structure according to an illustrative implementation;

[0070] Figure 16 is an illustration of a method of aircraft manufacturing and service in the form of a block diagram according to an illustrative implementation; and

[0071] Figure 17 is an illustration of an aircraft in which an illustrative implementation can be implemented in the form of a block diagram. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that a conventional fuselage panel is shipped in a cage or container-like structure. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that after shipping, the fuselage panel is then transferred into multiple transport and assembly tools. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that in some conventional processes, the fuselage panel encounters three separate sets of tools: shipping (transport), staging, and build tools. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that each tool transfer adds to the manufacturing time of the fuselage.

[0073] Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that one conventional way to assemble a fuselage is to surround it with a cover at different heights. Surrounding the fuselage with a cover provides access for an operator or assembler, such as a robot, to perform manufacturing operations, but limits what construction operations can fit in those areas.

[0074] Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that surrounding a fuselage with a cover takes up valuable factory floor space. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that surrounding a fuselage with a cover is undesirably inflexible to changes in build plans or products.

[0075] Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that another way to perform operations on a fuselage assembly is to have a mobile access station. Mobile access stations allow parts and equipment to come and go, but require the fuselage structure to be assembled to a point where the fuselage can support itself.

[0076] Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that reducing manufacturing time reduces costs and can increase production capacity. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that manufacturing time of a fuselage can be reduced by reducing the number of tool transfers. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that manufacturing time of a fuselage can be reduced by utilizing a set of tools for multiple functions. Illustrative examples recognize and take into account that manufacturing floor space is valuable, and reducing the footprint of assembly tools would be desirable.

[0077] Turning now to Figure 1 , a diagram depicting an illustration of an aircraft in which illustrative implementations can be implemented is depicted. Aircraft 100 is an example of an aircraft that can be formed using Figure 13 , a cradle and operations frame system 1300. Aircraft 100 is an example of an aircraft that can be formed using Figure 2 , a cradle and operations frame system 200.

[0078] In this illustrative example, aircraft 100 has a wing 102 and a wing 104 attached to a body 106. Aircraft 100 includes an engine 108 attached to wing 102 and an engine 110 attached to wing 104.

[0079] Body 106 has a tail section 112. A horizontal stabilizer 114, a horizontal stabilizer 116, and a vertical stabilizer 118 are attached to tail section 112 of body 106.

[0080] Turning now to Figure 2 , a diagram depicting an illustration of a perspective view of a cradle and operations frame system enclosing a plurality of panels is depicted in accordance with illustrative implementations. Cradle and operations frame system 200 is a physical implementation of cradle and operations frame system 1300. Figure 13 Cradle and operations frame system 200 can be used to form a portion of aircraft 100. A plurality of panels 206 can be joined together to form a portion of body 106 of aircraft 100. Figure 1

[0081] Cradle and operations frame system 200 includes a plurality of panel cradles 202. Each panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles 202 includes a frame configured to act as a positioning board for a panel and a guide feature configured to interface with at least one other panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles 202.

[0082] As shown, the plurality of panel cradles 202 are joined together to form an operations platform 204 that surrounds a plurality of panels 206. Operations platform 204 acts as a jig for the plurality of panels 206. Operations platform 204, acting as a jig, holds the plurality of panels 206 and provides a location for tools to work on the plurality of panels 206. The plurality of panel cradles 202 that are joined together form a positioning board 208 for the plurality of panels 206.

[0083] Each panel of the plurality of panels 206 is guided and attached to a respective panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles 202. Guiding each of the plurality of panels 206 to a respective panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles 202 allows each of the plurality of panels 206 to be guided once. Guiding each of the plurality of panels 206 to a respective panel cradle of the plurality of panel cradles 202 allows the plurality of panel cradles 202 to be aligned relative to each other to also align the plurality of panels 206 relative to each other.​

[0084] By directing the panels to respective panel carriers with a desired threshold, the panel carriers are used to align the plurality of panels 206 at a macro level. Each panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 also has a panel manipulation arm to align the plurality of panels 206 to a desired tolerance at a micro level before joining the plurality of panels 206 together. Directing each panel to a respective panel carrier eliminates directing the panels directly to each other at a macro level.

[0085] In the carrier and operations frame system 200, at least one panel carrier includes a plurality of operations locations configured to receive respective operations assemblies. As shown, the carrier and operations frame system 200 includes a side panel carrier 210, a header panel carrier 212, a side panel carrier 214, and a keel panel carrier 216. In this illustrative example, the side panel carrier 210 and the side panel carrier 214 each have a plurality of operations locations configured to receive respective operations assemblies. As shown, the header panel carrier 212 and the keel panel carrier 216 are depicted as not having operations locations configured to receive respective operations assemblies. In some un-depicted examples, at least one of the header panel carrier 212 or the keel panel carrier 216 has a plurality of operations locations configured to receive respective operations assemblies.

[0086] In some illustrative examples, each operations assembly (not shown) is a replaceable module configured to connect to an operations location. Each operations assembly (not shown) includes at least one of an automated tool or a location for an operator to perform a manual operation. In some illustrative examples, at least one operations assembly (not shown) includes a robotic arm for performing a manufacturing operation from a respective operations location.

[0087] Each panel carrier of the carrier and operations frame system 200 is configured to support a respective panel during shipping, staging, and manufacturing operations. In some illustrative examples, manufacturing steps of the panel can also be performed on the respective panel carrier. In some illustrative examples, at least one of drilling, joining, or other manufacturing steps can be performed while the panel is on the respective panel carrier.

[0088] The side panel carrier 210 is configured to support a side panel 218 during shipping, staging, and manufacturing operations. The header panel carrier 212 is configured to support a header panel 220 during shipping, staging, and manufacturing operations. The side panel carrier 214 is configured to support a side panel 222 during shipping, staging, and manufacturing operations including assembly to other skin panels. The keel panel carrier 216 is configured to support a keel panel 224 during shipping, staging, and manufacturing operations.

[0089] Each panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 includes a frame and a guide feature. At least one panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 has a plurality of operational positions.

[0090] In some illustrative examples, each panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 is designed to minimize hindrance to performing operations on the plurality of panels 206. In one example, the frame of each panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 is designed to minimize hindrance to performing operations on the plurality of panels 206. In some illustrative examples, each panel carrier is designed to have operational positions that are configured to maximize access to the plurality of panels 206. In some illustrative examples, the operational positions are designed to accommodate specific operations such as joining the plurality of panels 206.

[0091] Figure 2 The illustration of the carrier and operations frame system 200 and the plurality of panels 206 in FIG. 1 is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the way in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. Other components can be used in addition to or instead of the components illustrated. Some components can be unnecessary. For example, in Figure 2 In FIG. 1, each longitudinal joint of the plurality of panels 206 is accessible through the side panel carrier 210 and the side panel carrier 214. In other illustrative examples, at least one panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202 can be designed to alter access to the plurality of panels 206. For example, the dome panel carrier 212 can be redesigned to enclose less of the circumference of the dome panel 220.

[0092] As another example, the plurality of panel carriers 202 includes any desired number of panel carriers. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of panel carriers 202 has more than four panel carriers. In other illustrative examples, the plurality of panel carriers 202 has fewer than four panel carriers.

[0093] In some unillustrated examples, the plurality of panels 206 extends beyond the plurality of panel carriers 202 to join the plurality of panels 206 to a second plurality of panels. In one illustrative example, a circumferential joint is formed between the plurality of panels 206 and the second plurality of panels, which are located between the plurality of panel carriers 202 and a second plurality of panel carriers that support the second plurality of panels. In this illustrative example, a body of an aircraft is formed by joining the plurality of panels 206 and the second plurality of panels.

[0094] The plurality of panels 206 are joined together using longitudinal splices, while the plurality of panel carriers 202 are joined together to form the carrier and operations frame system 200. The longitudinal joints between the plurality of panels 206 can be formed by passing the plurality of panels 206 through any desired panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202.

[0095] As another example, a portion of a cargo floor is shown. In some other, not depicted, examples, a passenger floor can also be present. In other illustrative examples, the passenger floor can be added after the plurality of panels 206 are joined together.

[0096] As shown, a fuselage frame 226 is present on each of the plurality of panels 206. The frame 226 can also be referred to as a stiffener. When the fuselage frame 226 is present on the plurality of panels 206 prior to joining the plurality of panel carriers 202 together to form the carrier and operations frame system 200, the fuselage frames 226 will be spliced together. In these illustrative examples, the fuselage frames 226 are spliced together while forming the longitudinal joints of the plurality of panels 206.

[0097] In some illustrative examples, performing at least one manufacturing operation on at least one panel by the panel carrier’s operations platform 204 includes attaching a plurality of frames to the panel. The frames can also be referred to as stiffeners, fuselages, stringers, supports, or beams. In one illustrative example, Figure 2 is a view of the carrier and operations frame system 200 and the plurality of panels 206 after joining the plurality of panel carriers 202 to form the carrier and operations frame system 200 and subsequently attaching the frames 226 to the plurality of panels 206.

[0098] Figures 3 to 10 Components of the carrier and operations frame system 200 are shown prior to joining the plurality of panel carriers 202. Although not shown in Figures 3 to 10 Each of the plurality of panel carriers 202 can have a plurality of panel manipulation arms to move panels relative to the respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 202. The adjustment of the position of the panels relative to the respective panel carrier can be made prior to or after joining the panel carrier to an adjacent panel carrier.

[0099] The panel manipulation arms can move the panels relative to the respective panel carrier of the carrier and operations frame system 200. The movement of the panels can include at least one of movement toward or away from the respective panel carrier, movement up or down relative to the respective panel carrier, movement left or right relative to the respective panel carrier, or any desired combination. Movement of the panels in the fore / aft (longitudinal) direction of the fuselage aligns the panels relative to adjacent panels to form a longitudinal splice. The movement of the panels can adjust the spacing of the panels. Movement of the panels toward or away from adjacent panels positions the panels within a tolerance for joining to the adjacent panels.

[0100] In some illustrative examples, warping or twisting of one panel relative to the other panels can be addressed by a combination of panel movements. In some illustrative examples, the front of the longitudinal splice appears too tight, while the rear end is too wide. The combination of panel movements helps align the panels to achieve a more parallel alignment that facilitates the longitudinal splice.

[0101] Now turn Figure 3 , depicts an illustration of an internal perspective view of a transport assembly according to an illustrative embodiment. The transport assembly 300 is Figure 13 The transport assembly 300 includes a physical implementation of the side assembly 1332. Figure 2 side panel bracket 210 and side panel 218 . Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The side panel bracket 210 and Figure 2 2 and 3. A view of the side panel 218 in the same orientation is shown in FIG. Figure 3 This may be referred to as an interior view because a portion of the interior of the carrier and operating frame system 200 is visible. The transport assembly 300 is configured to support the side panel 218 during transport. After transport, the transport assembly 300 is used to support the side panel 218 relative to the other panels of the plurality of panels (e.g., Figure 2 206) guides the side panels 218. After the side panel brackets 210 are joined to other panel brackets to form a bracket and operating frame system, such as the bracket and operating frame system 200, the side panel brackets 210 support the side panels 218 as manufacturing operations are performed by the bracket and operating frame system.

[0102] The side panel bracket 210 includes a frame 302, an indexing feature 304, and a plurality of operating positions 306. The frame 302 is configured to serve as a locating plate 308 for the side panel 218. The indexing feature 304 is configured to index the side panel bracket 210 to other panel brackets before connecting the side panel bracket 210 to other panel brackets to form a bracket and operating frame system, such as Figure 2 The bracket and operating frame system 200. By indexing the side panel bracket 210 to the other panel brackets, the side panel 218 is indexed relative to the other panels in the plurality of panels.

[0103] Multiple operating locations 306 are open to allow manufacturing operations to be performed on side panel 218. Multiple operating locations 306 of side panel bracket 210 are configured to support operating components for performing operations on side panel 218. For example, multiple operating locations 306 allow a technician or robot to access side panel 218 during assembly to other panels. As another example, multiple operating locations 306 allow a technician or robot to access side panel 218 during other manufacturing operations, such as drilling, fastening, surface preparation, or other manufacturing operations. Each operating component is a module configured to be positioned within one of multiple operating locations 306. In some illustrative examples, each operating component is one of a plurality of replaceable operating components.

[0104] Now turn Figure 4 , depicts an illustration of an internal perspective view of a guidance feature of a transport assembly according to an illustrative embodiment. View 400 is Figure 3 Marked as Figure 4 The view inside the box.

[0105] View 400 is a front perspective view of an indexing feature 402. Indexing feature 402 is one of indexing features 304 of side panel bracket 210. Indexing feature 402 is configured to Figure 2 The top panel bracket 212 guides the side panel bracket 210 .

[0106] As shown, indexing feature 402 is a male feature, but indexing feature 402 may take any suitable form. In some illustrative examples, indexing feature 402 may take the form of a female feature. In some illustrative examples, indexing feature 402 is used to initially align side panel bracket 210 before performing a more controlled adjustment of the position.

[0107] In this illustrative example, the indexing feature 402 takes the form of a "cone." Another panel bracket, e.g. Figure 2 The "cup" of the dome panel bracket 212 mates with the cone indexing feature 402. When the indexing feature 402 mates with the cup, the alignment between the two panel brackets is within tolerance.

[0108] Temporary accessory 404 is visible in view 400. Temporary accessory 404 is Figure 13 13. A temporary accessory 404 secures side panel 218 to side panel bracket 210. Any desired number of temporary accessories, including temporary accessories 404, can secure side panel 218 to side panel bracket 210. Temporary accessories 404 can take any desired form. In some illustrative examples, temporary accessories 404 are connected to side panel 218 via temporary fasteners that extend through side panel 218. In some illustrative examples, temporary accessories 404 are secured to side panel 218 via a clamping force.

[0109] In some example implementations, the guide features 304 including the guide features 402 have at least one different location, different size, or different type of guide feature. For example, at least one of the guide features 304 can be mounted as a cantilevered structure. In one example, at least one of the location, size, or type of guide feature is selected to accommodate a manufacturing operation to be performed on the plurality of panels. In one example, at least one of the location, size, or type of guide feature is selected to accommodate forming a longitudinal joint between the plurality of panels.

[0110] Turning now to Figure 5 , a depiction of a top perspective view of a transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an illustrative implementation. The view 500 is a rear view of the transport assembly 300. Visible in the view 500 are the plurality of operation locations 306. The plurality of operation locations 306 includes an operation location 502, an operation location 504, an operation location 506, and an operation location 508. Each of the operation locations 306 is configured to allow access to the side panel 218 to perform a manufacturing operation on the side panel 218. At least one of the operation locations 306 is configured to receive an operation assembly to perform an automated manufacturing operation or to allow an operator to access to perform a manufacturing operation on the side panel 218.

[0111] In some illustrative examples, operations are performed by an automated or semi-automated tool in at least one of the operation locations 306. In some illustrative examples, operations are performed by an operator in at least one of the operation locations 306. Some portions of the side panel 218 blocked by the frame 302 can be accessed manually. In some illustrative examples, the frame 302 is designed to accommodate operations to be performed on the side panel 218 without blocking access to portions of the side panel 218 that receive manufacturing operations.

[0112] Turning now to Figure 6 , a depiction of a top perspective view of a transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an illustrative implementation. The transport assembly 600 is a physical implementation of the arch assembly 1338 of Figure 13 . The transport assembly 600 includes the arch panel carrier 212 and the arch panel 220 of Figure 2 . The transport assembly 600 is configured to support the arch panel 220 during transport. After transport, the transport assembly 600 is used to guide the arch panel 220 relative to other panels in the plurality of panels (e.g., the plurality of panels 206 in Figure 2 ). The arch panel carrier 212 supports the arch panel 220 when engaged to other panel carriers to form a carrier and operation frame system, such as the carrier and operation frame system 200, after which manufacturing operations are performed by the carrier and operation frame system.

[0113] The cove panel carriage 212 includes a frame 602. The frame 602 is configured to act as a positioning plate 604 to the cove panel 220.

[0114] The illustration of the cove panel carriage 212 of the plurality of panel carriages 202 is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. Other components, in addition to or in place of those shown, can be used. Some components can not be necessary. For example, although an operating position is not provided in the cove panel carriage 212, the cove panel carriage 212 can include any desired number of operating positions to access the plurality of panels 206. Further, in some illustrative examples, the frame 602 of the cove panel carriage 212 has a different shape to better access the cove panel 220 through one of the cove panel carriage 212 or the side panel carriage 214.

[0115] Turning now to Figure 7 , an illustration of a bottom perspective view of a transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Figure 7 is Figure 6 an inside-out perspective view of a portion of the cove panel carriage 212 of the transport assembly 200. The view 700 is a bottom perspective view of the cove panel carriage 212 and the cove panel 220. A temporary fitting 702 is visible in the view 700. The temporary fitting 702 secures the cove panel 220 to the cove panel carriage 212.

[0116] The cove panel carriage 212 includes a pointing feature 704. The pointing feature 704 is configured to point the cove panel carriage 212 to other panel carriages prior to connecting the cove panel carriage 212 to the other panel carriages to form a carriage and operating frame system (e.g., the carriage and operating frame system 200 of Figure 2 .By pointing the cove panel carriage 212 to the other panel carriages, the cove panel 220 is pointed relative to other panels of the plurality of panels.

[0117] Turning now to Figure 8 , an illustration of a bottom perspective view of a pointing feature of a transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The view 800 is a bottom perspective view of the pointing feature 802. Figure 7 is Figure 8 the view within the box labeled Figure 8 is Figure 6 an inside-out perspective view of a portion of the cove panel carriage 212 of the transport assembly 200.

[0118] The view 800 is a bottom perspective view of a pointing feature 802. The pointing feature 802 is one of the pointing features 704 of the cove panel carriage 212. The pointing feature 802 is configured to point the cove panel carriage 212 relative to the side panel carriage 210 of the transport assembly 200. Figure 2

[0119] In this illustrative example, the indexing feature 802 takes the form of a "cup." Another panel carrier's "cone," for example Figure 2 the indexing feature 402 of the side panel carrier 210 of FIG. 1, cooperates with the cone indexing feature 802. When the indexing feature 802 cooperates with the cone, the alignment between the two panel carriers is within a tolerance.

[0120] In some illustrative examples, additional indexing features (not shown) are present on the vault panel carrier 212 or another one of the plurality of panel carriers 202 to index the plurality of panel carriers 202 to a second plurality of panel carriers. In some illustrative examples, the indexing features that index the plurality of panel carriers 202 to the second plurality of panel carriers include a plurality of cup and cone systems.

[0121] In some illustrative examples, the indexing features 704 including the indexing feature 802 have at least one different location, different size, or different type of indexing feature. For example, at least one of the indexing features 704 can be mounted as a cantilevered structure. In one example, at least one of the location, size, or type of indexing feature is selected to accommodate a manufacturing operation to be performed on the plurality of panels. In one example, at least one of the location, size, or type of indexing feature is selected to accommodate forming a longitudinal joint between the plurality of panels.

[0122] Turning now to Figure 9 a depiction of a top perspective view of a transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an illustrative implementation. The transport assembly 900 is a physical implementation of the keel assembly 1336 of FIG. 1. Figure 13 The transport assembly 900 includes the keel panel carrier 216 and the keel panel 224 of FIG. 1. Figure 2

[0123] The transport assembly 900 is structured to support the keel panel 224 during transport. After transport, the transport assembly 900 is used to index the keel panel 224 relative to other panels of the plurality of panels (e.g., the plurality of panels 206 of FIG. 1). After joining the keel panel carrier 216 to the other panel carriers to form a carrier and handling frame system (e.g., the carrier and handling frame system 200 of FIG. 1), the keel panel carrier 216 supports the keel panel 224 while manufacturing operations are performed by the carrier and handling frame system. Figure 2

[0124] The keel panel carrier 216 includes a frame 902 and an indexing feature 904. The frame 902 is structured to act as a positioning plate 906 for the keel panel 224. After joining the keel panel carrier 216 to the other panel carriers to form a carrier and handling frame system, e.g., the carrier and handling frame system 200 of FIG. 1, the keel panel carrier 216 supports the keel panel 224 while manufacturing operations are performed by the carrier and handling frame system. Figure 2 ​​Before mounting and operating the frame system 200, the indexing feature 904 is configured to index the keel panel bracket 216 to the other panel brackets. By indexing the keel panel bracket 216 to the other panel brackets, the keel panel 224 is indexed relative to the other panels of the plurality of panels.

[0125] Now go to Figure 10 , depicts an illustration of a top perspective view of a guidance feature of a transport assembly according to an illustrative embodiment. View 1000 is Figure 9 Marked as Figure 10 The view inside the box.

[0126] View 1000 is a front perspective view of a guide feature 1002. The guide feature 1002 is one of the guide features 904 of the keel panel bracket 216. The guide feature 1002 is configured to Figure 2 The side panel brackets 214 guide the keel panel brackets 216 .

[0127] In this illustrative example, the indexing feature 1002 takes the form of a "cup." Another panel carrier "cone" (e.g. Figure 2 The indexing feature of the side panel bracket 214 of the side panel bracket 214 mates with the indexing feature 1002 of the cone. When the indexing feature 1002 mates with the cone, the alignment between the two panel brackets is within tolerance.

[0128] As shown, indexing feature 1002 is a female feature, but indexing feature 1002 may take any desired form. In some illustrative examples, indexing feature 1002 is used to initially align keel panel bracket 216 before performing a more controlled adjustment of the position.

[0129] Now go to Figure 11 , depicts an illustration of a partial end view of an operating assembly within a carrier and operating frame system surrounding a plurality of panels, according to an illustrative embodiment. The carrier and operating frame system 1100 is Figure 13 In some illustrative examples, the carrier and operating frame system 1100 is physically implemented with Figure 2 The same as the carrier and operating frame system 200, wherein a plurality of operating components are attached to the carrier and operating frame system 200. For example, the operating component 1110 is present in the operating position 1106 of the carrier and operating frame system 1100. In these illustrative examples, Figure 11 yes Figure 2 A partial end view of the bracket and operating frame system 200.

[0130] The carriage and operating frame system 1100 includes a plurality of operating locations 1102. The plurality of operating locations 1102 provides access to a plurality of panels 1104 for performing manufacturing operations on the plurality of panels 1104.

[0131] The plurality of operation locations 1102 includes operation location 1106 and operation location 1108. In this illustrative example, an operation assembly 1110 is present at operation location 1106. Operation assembly 1110 has a robotic arm 1112. Operation assembly 1110 is a replaceable module. Robotic arm 1112 manipulates a robotic end effector 1114 in order to perform manufacturing operations on a side panel 1116 of the plurality of panels 1104.

[0132] Figure 11 The illustration of the gantry and operations frame system 1100 and the plurality of panels 1104 in FIG. 1 1 10 is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the way in which the illustrative embodiments can be implemented. Other components can be used in addition to or instead of the components illustrated. Some components can be unnecessary. For example, although the plurality of panels 1104 is depicted as being without stringers or frames, in some illustrative examples, these components are present. As another example, the gantry and operations frame system 1100 can contain any desired number or shape of panel gantries. As another example, any desired type of operation assembly can be provided. In some illustrative examples, operation assembly 1110 is exchanged for an operation assembly configured to perform a different function.

[0133] Turning now to Figure 12 FIG. 12 depicts an illustration of a side view of an operation assembly within a gantry and operations frame system enclosing a plurality of panels, in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The gantry and operations frame system 1200 is a physical implementation of the gantry and operations frame system 1300 of FIG. 13. Figure 13

[0134] The gantry and operations frame system 1200 includes a plurality of operation locations 1202. The plurality of operation locations 1202 provides access to the plurality of panels 1204 for performing manufacturing operations on the plurality of panels 1204.

[0135] The plurality of operation locations 1202 includes operation location 1206 and operation location 1208. In this illustrative example, an operation assembly 1210 is present at operation location 1206 and an operation assembly 1212 is present at operation location 1208. Operation assembly 1210 has a panel manipulation arm 1214 and a barrier 1216. Panel manipulation arm 1214 is used to adjust positioning of a side panel 1218. Barrier 1216 is used to create boundaries and constraints for an operator. Operation assembly 1210 is a replaceable module.

[0136] Operation assembly 1212 has a panel manipulation arm 1220 and a barrier 1222. Panel manipulation arm 1220 is used to adjust positioning of a side panel 1218. Barrier 1222 is used to create boundaries and constraints for an operator. Operation assembly 1212 is a replaceable module. ​

[0137] The panel manipulation arms 1220 and 1214 move the side panel 1218 relative to the side panel carriage 1219 of the carriage and operating framework system 1200. The movement of the side panel 1218 can include movement toward or away from the side panel carriage 1219, movement up or down relative to the side panel carriage 1219, movement left or right relative to the side panel carriage 1219, or any desired combination. Movement of the side panel 1218 up or down relative to the side panel carriage 1219 moves the side panel 1218 toward or away from the dome panel. Movement of the side panel 1218 left or right relative to the side panel carriage 1219 moves the side panel 1218 in the front / back (longitudinal) direction of the fuselage.

[0138] The panel manipulation arms 1220 and 1214 are connected to the side panel 1218 at temporary fittings. The panel manipulation arms 1220 and 1214 move the side panel 1218 relative to the side panel carriage 1219 in any desired axis.

[0139] As shown, the side panel 1218 has been indexed to the dome panel 1224. The side panel 1218 is positioned within a desired tolerance relative to the dome panel 1224 by engaging the plurality of panel carriages together or moving the panel manipulation arms 1220 and 1214 to form at least one of the carriage and operating framework system 1200.

[0140] Figure 12 The illustration of the carriage and operating framework system 1200 and the plurality of panels 1204 in may not be meant to imply a physical or architectural limitation of the manner in which illustrative implementations can be implemented. Other components can be used in addition to or in place of the components shown. Some components can be unnecessary. For example, while the plurality of panels 1204 are depicted as being without stringers or frames, in some illustrative examples, these components are present. As another example, the carriage and operating framework system 1200 can contain any desired number or shape of panel carriages.

[0141] As another example, while only the panel manipulation arms 1214 and 1220 are visible in Figure 12 may be present in the operating framework system 1200. For example, there can be additional panel manipulation arms that move to Figure 12 in the page in In this illustrative example, there are additional panel manipulation arms along the length of the plurality of panels 1204.

[0142] Turning now to Figure 13FIG. 1 depicts an illustration of a block diagram of a manufacturing environment in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. A carrier and operations framework system 1300 exists in a manufacturing environment 1302. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 is configured to support a plurality of panels 1304 while assembling a structure 1306.

[0143] The carrier and operations framework system 1300 includes a plurality of panel carriers 1308, each panel carrier including a frame configured to function as a positioning board for a panel and a guide feature configured to join with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The plurality of panel carriers 1308 includes any desired number of panel carriers. In this illustrative example, the plurality of panel carriers 1308 includes four panel carriers: a side panel carrier 1310, a side panel carrier 1312, a keel panel carrier 1314, and a vault panel carrier 1316. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of panel carriers 1308 includes more than four panel carriers. In some other illustrative examples, the plurality of panel carriers 1308 includes fewer than four panel carriers.

[0144] Each panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 is configured to support a respective panel during shipping 1326, staging 1327, and manufacturing operations 1328. In this illustrative embodiment, the plurality of panels 1304 includes a side panel 1318, a side panel 1320, a keel panel 1322, and a vault panel 1324. The plurality of panel carriers 1308 is configured to support the plurality of panels 1304 during shipping 1326 of the plurality of panels 1304. The plurality of panel carriers 1308 is also configured to support the plurality of panels 1304 during manufacturing operations 1328.

[0145] The side panel carrier 1310 is configured to support the side panel 1318 during shipping 1326 and manufacturing operations 1328. The side panel carrier 1312 is configured to support the side panel 1320 during shipping 1326 and manufacturing operations 1328. The keel panel carrier 1314 is configured to support the keel panel 1322 during shipping 1326 and manufacturing operations 1328. The vault panel carrier 1316 is configured to support the vault panel 1324 during shipping 1326 and manufacturing operations 1328.

[0146] Each of the plurality of panels 1304 is secured to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to form a transport assembly 1330. The transport assembly 1330 is transported to the manufacturing environment 1302 prior to performing the manufacturing operation 1328. The transport 1326 can also be referred to as shipping. The transport 1326 of the transport assembly 1330 can be performed within the manufacturing environment 1302 or from a location outside of the manufacturing environment 1302. The transport 1326 can include shipping within a manufacturing facility, shipping within a city, shipping between states, or shipping between countries. The plurality of panel carriers 1308 are configured to support the plurality of panels 1304 during the transport 1326.

[0147] In this illustrative example, the transport assembly 1330 includes a side assembly 1332, a side assembly 1334, a keel assembly 1336, and a vault assembly 1338. The side panel 1318 is secured to the side panel carrier 1310 to form the side assembly 1332. The side panel 1320 is secured to the side panel carrier 1312 to form the side assembly 1334. The keel panel 1322 is secured to the keel panel carrier 1314 to form the keel assembly 1336. The vault panel 1324 is secured to the vault panel carrier 1316 to form the vault assembly 1338.

[0148] In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of panels 1304 is attached to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 using a respective temporary fitting to form the transport assembly 1330. In this illustrative example, the side panel 1318 is attached to the side panel carrier 1310 using a temporary fitting 1340. In this illustrative example, the side panel 1320 is attached to the side panel carrier 1312 using a temporary fitting 1342. In this illustrative example, the keel panel 1322 is attached to the keel panel carrier 1314 using a temporary fitting 1344. In this illustrative example, the vault panel 1324 is attached to the vault panel carrier 1316 using a temporary fitting 1346.

[0149] Prior to attaching a panel of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier, the panel is directed to the respective panel carrier. Directing each of the plurality of panels to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 allows each of the plurality of panels 1304 to be directed once. Directing each of the plurality of panels to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 allows the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to be aligned relative to each other so as to also align the plurality of panels 1304 relative to each other.

[0150] The side panel carrier 1310 has a frame 1348 and a guide feature 1350. The frame 1348 is structured to function as a positioning plate to the side panel 1318. The guide feature 1350 is structured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The side panel carrier 1310 has a plurality of operational positions 1352. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1352 is structured to receive a respective operational assembly of the plurality of operational assemblies 1382. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1352 is structured to allow performance of the manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304. In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of operational positions 1352 is structured to allow performance of at least one of the manufacturing operations 1328 on the side panel 1318.

[0151] The side panel carrier 1312 has a frame 1354 and a guide feature 1356. The frame 1354 is structured to function as a positioning plate to the side panel 1320. The guide feature 1356 is structured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The side panel carrier 1312 has a plurality of operational positions 1358. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1358 is structured to receive a respective operational assembly of the plurality of operational assemblies 1382. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1358 is structured to allow performance of the manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304. In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of operational positions 1358 is structured to allow performance of at least one of the manufacturing operations 1328 on the side panel 1320.

[0152] The keel panel carrier 1314 has a frame 1360 and a guide feature 1362. The frame 1360 is structured to function as a positioning plate to the keel panel 1322. The guide feature 1362 is structured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The keel panel carrier 1314 has a plurality of operational positions 1364. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1364 is structured to receive a respective operational assembly of the plurality of operational assemblies 1382. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1364 is structured to allow performance of the manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304. In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of operational positions 1364 is structured to allow performance of at least one of the manufacturing operations 1328 on the keel panel 1322.

[0153] The cove panel carrier 1316 has a frame 1366 and a guide feature 1368. The frame 1366 is configured to act as a positioning plate for the cove panel 1324. The guide feature 1368 is configured to interface with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The cove panel carrier 1316 has a plurality of operational positions 1369. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1369 is configured to receive a respective operational assembly of the plurality of operational assemblies 1382. Each of the plurality of operational positions 1369 is configured to allow a manufacturing operation 1328 to be performed on at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304. In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of operational positions 1369 is configured to allow at least one of the manufacturing operations 1328 to be performed on the cove panel 1324.

[0154] A transport assembly 1330 comprising the plurality of panel carriers 1308 is received in the manufacturing environment 1302, each panel carrier holding a panel of the plurality of panels 1304. Upon receiving the transport assembly 1330, the plurality of panel carriers 1308 are connected to form an operational platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304. The manufacturing operations 1328 are performed on the plurality of panels 1304 using the operational platform 1372. At least one of the manufacturing operations 1328 is performed on at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304 by the operational platform 1372.

[0155] The operational platform 1372 acts as a jig for the plurality of panels 1304. The operational platform 1372, acting as a jig, holds the plurality of panels 1304 and provides a location for tools to work on the plurality of panels 1304.

[0156] The plurality of panel carriers 1308 now serve to align the plurality of panels 1304 at a macro level by guiding each panel of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 at a desired threshold. Guiding each panel to a respective panel carrier eliminates guiding the panels directly to one another at a macro level. The macro level can be described as a rough guide, while the micro level guide is a more precise guide.

[0157] In some illustrative examples, the macro level guide is described as a precise guide and contacting the corresponding panel carrier, where the panel is roughly positioned relative to its corresponding panel and does not contact its corresponding panel. In some illustrative examples, the micro level guide is described as a precise guide and contacting the corresponding panel of the corresponding panel.

[0158] The operational platform 1372 is formed for guiding the plurality of panels 1304 relative to one another. Prior to joining the plurality of panels 1304, micro level guiding of the plurality of panels 1304 can be performed using the plurality of panel manipulation arms 1388.

[0159] The plurality of panel manipulation arms 1388 will maintain the new position of the plurality of panels 1304. The plurality of panels 1304 are joined using longitudinal splices when the plurality of panels 1304 are positioned within a tolerance relative to each other.

[0160] The plurality of panel carriers 1308 joined together form a positioning plate 1370 for the plurality of panels 1304. The positioning plate 1370 supports the plurality of panels 1304 during the manufacturing operations 1328.

[0161] The manufacturing operations 1328 include any desired operations. The manufacturing operations 1328 can include drilling 1374, cleaning 1378, fastening 1380, or any other desired operations. In some illustrative examples, performing at least one manufacturing operation on at least one panel includes fastening 1380 the plurality of panels 1304 together.

[0162] The manufacturing operations 1328 are performed by at least one of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. The manufacturing operations are performed by one of the plurality of operation locations 1352 or the plurality of operation locations 1358.

[0163] The plurality of operation locations 1352 are configured to receive a respective one of the operation assemblies 1382. The plurality of operation locations 1358 are configured to receive a respective one of the operation assemblies 1382.

[0164] The operation assemblies 1382 are configured to enable the manufacturing operations 1328 to be performed on the plurality of panels 1304. The operation assemblies 1382 are configured to enable the manufacturing operations 1328 to be performed from an operation location of the plurality of operation locations 1352 or the plurality of operation locations 1358.

[0165] The operation assemblies 1382 enable the manufacturing operations to be performed manually or automatically. The operation assemblies 1382 can include at least one of a plurality of operator locations 1384, a plurality of robotic arms 1386, or a plurality of panel manipulation arms 1388.

[0166] The plurality of operator locations 1384 provide a location for an operator to perform the manufacturing operations on a panel of the plurality of panels 1304. The plurality of operator locations 1384 provide a desired structure, such as a railing, a staircase, or any other desired structure, to enable the manufacturing operations to be performed from the plurality of operator locations 1384.

[0167] In some illustrative examples, the plurality of robotic arms 1386 perform at least one manufacturing operation on the faceplates using a robotic end effector. The robotic end effector is connected to the plurality of robotic arms 1386. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of faceplate manipulation arms 1388 can move respective ones of the plurality of faceplates 1304 to position the respective ones of the plurality of faceplates 1304 in a desired location to receive a manufacturing operation. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of faceplate manipulation arms 1388 can move respective ones of the plurality of faceplates 1304 to bring the respective ones of the plurality of faceplates 1304 to a desired manufacturing location prior to drilling and / or fastening the plurality of faceplates 1304.

[0168] In some illustrative examples, the operational assembly 1382 is secured to the operational location using a modular connector. In some illustrative examples, the operational assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390. The replaceable module 1390 can be removed and replaced by another operational assembly 1382. The replaceable module 1390 can be removed from the plurality of faceplate carriers 1308 and secured within another carrier and operational frame system having additional plurality of faceplate carriers.

[0169] The plurality of operational locations 1352, the plurality of operational locations 1358, and the operational assembly 1382 configured to interface with respective operational locations provide the ability to change the design of the structure 1306 without an undesirable amount of tool redesign. The carrier and operational frame system 1300 provides flexibility in providing operational types and operational locations on the structure 1306 without requiring redesign of the carrier and operational frame system 1300.

[0170] The plurality of faceplates 1304 are formed from any desired material. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of faceplates 1304 take the form of a plurality of composite faceplates 1392. The composite faceplates 1392 are formed from a composite material. The composite material includes reinforcing fibers that are bound in a polymeric resin matrix. In other illustrative examples, the plurality of faceplates 1304 are formed from at least one metal.

[0171] The structure 1306 is any desired type of structure. In some illustrative examples, the structure 1306 is a fuselage 1394 or a portion of the fuselage 1394 of an aircraft 1396.

[0172] Figure 13 The illustration of the manufacturing environment 1302 in FIG. 13 is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which illustrative

[0173] For example, plurality of panel bays 1308 may include more or fewer than four panel bays.As another example, structure 1306 may be at least a portion of a tank, a ship, a car, a building, or any other desired type of structure.

[0174] As yet another example, manufacturing operations 1328 may include Figure 13 1316, such as coating application, wiring, inspection, or any other desired type of operation. As another example, while each of side panel bracket 1310, side panel bracket 1312, keel panel bracket 1314, and vault panel bracket 1316 includes an operating position, in other illustrative examples, at least one of side panel bracket 1310, side panel bracket 1312, or keel panel bracket 1314 does not include multiple operating positions. In some illustrative examples, at least one of keel panel bracket 1314 or vault panel bracket 1316 does not have multiple operating positions.

[0175] Figures 1 to 12 The different components shown in Figure 13 The combination of components in Figure 13 Use together with the components in, or a combination of the two. In addition, Figures 1 to 12 Some of the components can be Figure 13 1 and 2. The components shown in block form in FIG. 3 are illustrative examples of how they may be implemented as physical structures.

[0176] Now turn Figure 14 , an illustration of a flowchart of a method of assembling a structure is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In some illustrative examples, method 1400 assembles Figure 1 In some illustrative examples, method 1400 uses Figure 13 In some illustrative examples, method 1400 uses Figures 2 to 10 The plurality of panel brackets 202 is implemented.

[0177] Method 1400 receives a transport assembly comprising a plurality of panel carriers, each panel carrier holding a panel from a plurality of panels (operation 1402). Method 1400 connects the plurality of panel carriers to form an operating platform surrounding the plurality of panels (operation 1404). The operating platform serves as a fixture for the plurality of panels. The operating platform, acting as a fixture, holds the plurality of panels and provides a location for tools to work on the plurality of panels. Method 1400 performs at least one manufacturing operation on at least one panel from the plurality of panels using the operating platform (operation 1406). Method 1400 then terminates.

[0178] In some illustrative examples, the method 1400 directs each of the plurality of panels to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers (operation 1408). For example, Figure 2 the side panel 218 of the fuselage 202 is directed to the side panel carrier 210. As another example, Figure 3 the crown panel 320 of the fuselage 202 is directed to the crown panel carrier 312. By directing the panels to the panel carriers, the panel carriers are directed to other panel carriers to align the panels with other panels on the panel carriers.

[0179] In these illustrative examples, the panels are directed to the panel carriers when the panels are placed on the panel carriers. By directing the panels to the panel carriers at a desired threshold, the panel carriers now serve to align the plurality of panels at a macro level when the plurality of panels are joined into the fuselage. Directing each panel to a respective panel carrier eliminates directly directing the panels to each other at a macro level. The macro level can be described as a rough direction, while the micro level direction is a more precise direction. In some illustrative examples, the macro level is described in feet or tenths of feet, while the micro level is described in inches or even tenths of inches.

[0180] In some illustrative examples, the method 1400 attaches each of the plurality of panels to a respective panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers using a respective temporary fixture to form a transport assembly (operation 1410). In some illustrative examples, attaching the panels to the respective panel carriers is performed after the manufacture of the panels is complete. In some illustrative examples, after the panels are attached to the respective panel carriers and before the plurality of panel carriers are connected to form the operational platform, some manufacturing steps are performed on the panels.

[0181] In some illustrative examples, the method 1400 transports the transport assembly before connecting the plurality of panel carriers (operation 1412). Transporting the transport assembly includes moving the transport assembly. In some illustrative examples, the transport assembly is transported within a manufacturing facility. In some illustrative examples, the transport assembly is transported across a city, state, country, or even between countries. The transport assembly secures and protects the panels during transport of the panels.

[0182] In some illustrative examples, connecting the plurality of panel carriers to form the operational platform around the plurality of panels aligns the plurality of panels relative to each other (operation 1414). In these illustrative examples, the number of direction steps is reduced. By reducing the direction and alignment steps, the manufacturing time is reduced.

[0183] In these illustrative examples, as in operation 1408, the panels have been directed to a plurality of panel carriers. The plurality of panel carriers are then aligned relative to each other using a directing feature, such as directing feature 1350, directing feature 1356, directing feature 1362, and directing feature 1368. The plurality of panels are aligned at a macro level by aligning the plurality of panel carriers relative to each other. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of panels are then adjusted using a plurality of panel manipulation arms to direct the plurality of panels at a micro level. In some illustrative examples, the method 400 uses a panel manipulation arm connected to the operations platform to move at least one panel of the plurality of panels to position the at least one panel within a desired tolerance relative to an adjacent panel (operation 1415). The desired tolerance is a tolerance for joining the adjacent panels together. The panel manipulation arms can be used to manipulate the spacing of the plurality of panels to position the plurality of panels within a desired three-dimensional inner mold line (IML) or outer mold line (OML) position.

[0184] The macro level can be described as a coarse direction, while the micro level direction is a more precise direction. In some illustrative examples, the macro level is described in feet or tenths of a foot, while the micro level is described in inches or even tenths of an inch.

[0185] Directing the plurality of panels at a micro level includes moving each panel of the plurality of panels in any desired axis. The movement of the panels can include movement toward or away from the respective panel carrier, movement up or down relative to the panel carrier, movement left or right relative to the panel carrier, or any desired combination. In some illustrative examples, a panel manipulation arm in the operations platform is connected to a temporary fitting of at least one panel. The panel manipulation arm moves the panel relative to the respective panel carrier in any desired axis.

[0186] Each panel manipulation arm moves the panel to adjust its position relative to an adjacent panel. The panel manipulation arm moves the panel to place an edge of the panel within a tolerance of an edge of the adjacent panel for joining the two panels. After the directing and aligning have been completed, the plurality of panels are joined. The plurality of panels are joined using longitudinal joints such that the plurality of panels are spliced together along longitudinal edges. The plurality of panels are then spliced together. The splice between two panels of the plurality of panels can be a lap joint, a butt joint that interfaces with longitudinal inner and / or outer splice plates, or any other desired type of splice.

[0187] In some illustrative examples, the method 1400 positions the operational component to an operational position of the operational platform, where the operational component is a replaceable module (operation 1416). By having replaceable modules, different operational equipment can be added or removed as needed. In one example, a manual operational component can be removed and replaced with an automated operational component. In one example, an operational component configured to perform one type of manufacturing operation is removed and replaced with an operational component configured to perform another type of manufacturing operation. In one illustrative example, the manufacturing operation includes splicing a plurality of panels. In one illustrative example, the manufacturing operation includes automatic splicing of longitudinal splices with equipment such as a flex track.

[0188] In some illustrative examples, performing at least one manufacturing operation on at least one panel includes fastening a plurality of panels together (operation 1418). In one illustrative example, fastening includes automatic splicing of longitudinal splices with equipment such as a flex track. In some illustrative examples, by fastening a plurality of panels together, a structure is assembled. In some illustrative examples, by fastening a plurality of panels together, a portion of a fuselage is formed. In some illustrative examples, the structure is a fuselage of an aircraft.

[0189] In some illustrative examples, each of the plurality of panel carriers has a respective plurality of frames prior to being joined together. In these illustrative examples, each frame is joined (spliced) to a frame of an adjacent panel.

[0190] In some other illustrative examples, the frames are attached to the plurality of panels after the plurality of panel carriers are joined. In some illustrative examples, performing at least one manufacturing operation on at least one panel includes attaching a plurality of frames to at least one panel (operation 1419).

[0191] Turning now to Figure 15 , a flowchart depicting a method of assembling a structure is illustrated in accordance with illustrative implementations. In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 assembles a portion of a fuselage of an aircraft. For example, the method 1500 can assemble a barrel section of a fuselage. In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 assembles Figure 1 of the main body 106 of the aircraft 100, for example, the method 1500 can assemble a barrel section of the main body 106. In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 is implemented using Figure 13 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308. In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 is implemented using Figures 2 to 10 of the plurality of panel carriers 202.

[0192] The method 1500 attaches a panel to a panel carrier having a frame and a guide feature (operation 1502). The method 1500 connects the panel carrier holding the panel to a second panel carrier holding a second panel to form a carrier and handling frame system around a plurality of panels including the panel and the second panel carrier (operation 1504). The method 1500 performs at least one manufacturing operation on the panel by the handling platform of the panel carrier (operation 1506). The method 1500 then terminates.

[0193] In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 indexes the panel to the panel carrier prior to attaching the panel to the panel carrier (operation 1508). By indexing the panel to the panel carrier, the panel carrier is indexed to other panel carriers, which indexes the panel to other panels on the panel carrier.

[0194] In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 transports the panel on the panel carrier prior to connecting the panel carrier to the second panel carrier (operation 1510). Transporting the panel on the panel carrier includes moving a transport assembly. In some illustrative examples, the panel on the panel carrier is transported within a manufacturing facility. In some illustrative examples, the panel on the panel carrier is transported across a city, state, country, or even between countries. The panel carrier secures and protects the panel during transport of the panel.

[0195] In some illustrative examples, connecting the panel carrier to the second panel carrier aligns the panel and the second panel (operation 1512). The alignment of the panel and the second panel is at a macro level. This is a coarse alignment. In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 uses a panel manipulation arm connected to the carrier and handling frame system to move at least one of the panel or the second panel to position the panel within a desired tolerance relative to the second panel (operation 1513). The panel manipulation arm performs a micro alignment such that the panel and the second panel are positioned within a tolerance to engage with each other. In some illustrative examples, the at least one manufacturing operation is performed by a robotic arm connected to the panel carrier (operation 1514).

[0196] In some illustrative examples, the plurality of panels each have a respective plurality of frames prior to being joined together. In these illustrative examples, each frame is joined (spliced) to a frame of an adjacent panel.

[0197] In some other illustrative examples, the frames are attached to the plurality of panels after the plurality of panel carriers are joined. In some illustrative examples, performing at least one manufacturing operation on the panel by the handling platform of the panel carrier includes attaching the plurality of frames to the panel (operation 1515).

[0198] In some illustrative examples, the method 1500 inserts the operational component into the operational position of the panel carrier, where the at least one manufacturing operation is performed from the operational position (operation 1516). In some illustrative examples, the operational component is inserted into the panel carrier after connecting the plurality of panel carriers to form the operational platform around the plurality of panels.

[0199] In some illustrative examples, the operational component is a replaceable module, and the method 1500 secures the operational component to the operational position using a modular connector (operation 1518). The operational component can be one of a manual operational component or an automated operational component. In one illustrative example, the operational component includes a structure for an operator, such as a railing or a step. In some illustrative examples, the operational component is replaced with another operational component to perform additional manufacturing operations on the panel.

[0200] In some illustrative examples, the operational component includes a robotic end effector, and where performing the at least one manufacturing operation on the panel includes performing the at least one manufacturing operation with the robotic end effector (operation 1520). In some illustrative examples, the operational component includes a robotic arm that manipulates the end effector.

[0201] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” when used with a list of items indicates that one or more of the listed items can be used and that only one of each item in the list can be needed. For example, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” can include, but is not limited to, only item A, only item A and item B, or only item B. The example can also include only item A, only item B, and item C, or only item B and item C. Of course, any combination of these items can be present. In other examples, “at least one of” can be, for example, but not limited to, two of item A; one of item B; and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or other suitable combinations. The item can be a specific object, thing, or category. In other words, at least one of means that any combination of items from the list and multiple items can be used, but not all items in the list are required.

[0202] As used herein, “a number of” when used with reference to an item means one or more items.

[0203] The flow and block diagrams in the various described implementations illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operations of possible implementations of apparatuses and methods in illustrative implementations. In this regard, each block in the flow and block diagrams can represent at least one of a module, segment, function, or portion of an operation or step.

[0204] In some alternative implementations of the illustrative implementations, one or more functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon involved functions. Also, other blocks can be added, other blocks can be removed, and / or some blocks can be optional. For example, operations 1408 through 1418 can be optional. As another example, operations 1508 through 1520 can be optional.

[0205] Illustrative implementations of the disclosure can be described in the context of an aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 as shown in FIG. 16 and an aircraft 1700 as shown in FIG. 17. At the outset, FIG. 18 is provided to depict an exemplary aircraft manufacturing and service method in accordance with an illustrative implementation. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 can include specification and design 1602 of aircraft 1700 in Figure 16 Figure 17 FIG. 17, and material procurement 1604. Figure 16 Figure 17 During production, component and subassembly manufacturing 1606 and system integration 1608 of aircraft 1700 takes place. Thereafter, aircraft 1700 can go through certification and delivery 1610 in order to be placed in service 1612. While in service 1612 by a customer, aircraft 1700 is scheduled for routine maintenance and service 1614, which can include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, or other maintenance and service.

[0206] Each of the processes of aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 can be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator. In these examples, the operator is a customer. For the purposes of this description, a system integrator can include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major-systems integrators; a third party can include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator can be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, a maintenance organization, and / or other operator.

[0207] Referring now to FIG. 17, an illustration of an aircraft is depicted in which illustrative implementations can be implemented. In this example, aircraft 1700 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 as shown in FIG. 16, and can include a fuselage 1702 with a plurality of systems 1704 and an interior 1706. Examples of systems 1704 include one or more of a propulsion system 1708, an electrical system 1710, a hydraulic system 1712, and an environmental system 1714. Any number of other systems can be included.

[0208] Referring now to FIG. 17, an illustration of an aircraft is depicted in which illustrative implementations can be implemented. In this example, aircraft 1700 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 as shown in FIG. 16, and can include a fuselage 1702 with a plurality of systems 1704 and an interior 1706. Examples of systems 1704 include one or more of a propulsion system 1708, an electrical system 1710, a hydraulic system 1712, and an environmental system 1714. Any number of other systems can be included. Figure 17 Figure 16 Referring now to FIG. 17, an illustration of an aircraft is depicted in which illustrative implementations can be implemented. In this example, aircraft 1700 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600 as shown in FIG. 16, and can include a fuselage 1702 with a plurality of systems 1704 and an interior 1706. Examples of systems 1704 include one or more of a propulsion system 1708, an electrical system 1710, a hydraulic system 1712, and an environmental system 1714. Any number of other systems can be included.

[0209] ​​​The apparatus and methods embodied herein can be employed during at least one stage of the aircraft manufacturing and service method 1600. One or more illustrative embodiments can be used in the Figure 16 manufacture or use of at least one of component and subassembly manufacturing 1606, system integration 1608, launch site preparation and Figure 13 assembly 1610, mission operations 1612, and service and maintenance 1614. The aircraft 1700 can include a structure 1306 formed from the assembly of a plurality of panels 1304 using the cradle and handling frame system 1300. The structure 1306 can be formed during component and subassembly manufacturing 1606. As an example, the method 1400 can be used during component and subassembly manufacturing 1606 to assemble the structure 1306. In some illustrative examples, the structure 1306 is a component of the aircraft 1700. As another example, the method 1500 can be used during component and subassembly manufacturing 1606 to assemble the structure 1306.

[0210] Illustrative examples present a set of tools for panels, a plurality of panel cradles, that hold the panels together from shipping to completion. In some illustrative examples, the panels are fuselage panels and the completion is fuselage body structure completion.

[0211] The plurality of panel cradles (tools) assemble around the shape of the structure to hold and support the panels until they are joined together. In some illustrative examples, the structure is a fuselage.

[0212] Each of the plurality of panel cradles is part of a fixture, cradle, and handling frame system that provides an operating platform and positioning plates for the plurality of panels. Each of the plurality of panel cradles is used to index a respective panel of the plurality of panels. Each of the plurality of panel cradles is connected to the fixture, cradle, and handling frame system.

[0213] The plurality of panel cradles (tools) are compatible with modules used during different stages of the build process. The modules can be any desired module that completes the assembly of the structure. Some examples of modules include panel alignment manipulators, work platforms for human access, quality checks, or robots for assembly.

[0214] By using the same tools for shipping, assembly, and joining, illustrative examples reduce the wasted time moving the fuselage panels from one set of tools to another set of tools throughout the build process. Illustrative examples also reduce factory congestion by having a set of tools that cycle with the product. By having the panels supported by the plurality of panel cradles (tools), conditions are reduced that allow for mechanical and heavy tooling to be brought onto the aircraft more quickly. By having the plurality of panel cradles (tools) support the structure rather than having the structure support itself, tools and machinery will be allowed onto the aircraft more quickly.

[0215] The plurality of panel carriers (tools) reduce the precision required to position a panel relative to other panels by requiring less precision for positioning the tools. The plurality of panel carriers provide macroscopic guidance for the plurality of panels. The carrier and operating frame system removes variation in positioning the plurality of panels relative to each other at a macroscopic level. After the plurality of panel carriers guide the plurality of panels at a macroscopic level, panel manipulators on each of the plurality of panel carriers perform microscopic guidance adjustments.

[0216] The replaceable modules are used within the plurality of operating locations to perform manufacturing operations on the panels. By having replaceable modules for specific operations, illustrative examples reduce wasted time moving equipment and tools around.

[0217] By designing the panel carriers to always stay with the corresponding panel, separate shipping, handling, and assembly tools can be eliminated. The plurality of panel carriers (tools) assemble themselves to create support and access around the structure. In some illustrative examples, the plurality of panel carriers (tools) have a male / female type guidance system, which makes them easier to position and place.

[0218] The modular aspect of the operating assembly allows the user to select which tools and equipment are in place. By making the operating assembly modular, space is saved and access to the fuselage is improved.

[0219] The carrier and operating frame system provides cost savings by making the fuselage assembly process more efficient. The carrier and operating frame system will also provide significant cost avoidance benefits by eliminating the need to design and manufacture future tools for design changes to the structure. The operating locations allow for changing the operations or operating locations on the plurality of panels. The carrier and operating frame system makes the build process more flexible and easier to adapt to changes.

[0220] Also provided herein are the following clauses, which relate to:

[0221] 1. A method 1400 of assembling a structure 1306, the method comprising:

[0222] receiving 1402 a shipping assembly 1330 comprising a plurality of panel carriers 1308, each panel carrier holding a panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 of a plurality of panels 1304;

[0223] connecting 1404 the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to form an operating platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304; and

[0224] performing 1406 at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324 of the plurality of panels 1304 through the operating platform 1372.

[0225] 2. The method 1400 of clause 1, further comprising:

[0226] attaching 1410 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 using a respective temporary fitting 1340, 1342, 1344, or 1346 to form the shipping assembly 1330; and

[0227] shipping 1412 the shipping assembly 1330 prior to connecting the plurality of panel carriers 1308.

[0228] 3. The method 1400 of clause 1, further comprising:

[0229] directing 1408 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308; and

[0230] attaching 1410 each of the plurality of panels 1304 to a respective panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, or 1316 of the plurality of panel carriers 1308 using a respective temporary fitting 1340, 1342, 1344, or 1346 to form the shipping assembly 1330.

[0231] 4. The method 1400 of clause 3, wherein aligning the plurality of panels 1304 relative to one another by 1414 connecting the plurality of panel carriers 1308 to form an operating platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304.

[0232] 5. The method 1400 of clause 4, further comprising:

[0233] moving 1415 at least one panel of the plurality of panels 1304 using a panel manipulation arm 1388 connected to the operating platform 1372 to position the at least one panel relative to an adjacent panel within a desired tolerance.

[0234] 6. The method 1400 of any of clauses 1-5, wherein performing 1418 at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 includes fastening 1380 the plurality of panels 1304 together.

[0235] 7. The method of any of clauses 1-6, wherein performing 1419 at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324 includes attaching a plurality of frames 226 to the at least one panel 1318, 1320, 1322, or 1324.

[0236] 8. The method 1400 of any of clauses 1-7, further comprising:

[0237] positioning 1416 an operations assembly 1382 to an operations position of the operations platform 1372, wherein the operations assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390.

[0238] 9. The method 1400 of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the structure 1306 is a fuselage 1394 of an aircraft 1396.

[0239] 10. A method 1500 of assembling a structure 1306, the method comprising:

[0240] attaching 1502 a panel 1318 to a panel carrier 1310 having a frame 1348 and a guide feature 1350;

[0241] connecting 1504 the panel carrier 1310 holding the panel 1318 to a second panel carrier 1314 holding a second panel 1322 to form a carrier and operations frame system 1300 about a plurality of panels 1304 including the panel 1318 and the second panel carrier 1314; and

[0242] performing 1506 at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the panel 1318 by an operations platform 1372 of the panel carrier 1310.

[0243] 11. The method 1500 of clause 10, further comprising:

[0244] transporting 1510 the panel 1318 on the panel carrier 1310 prior to connecting the panel carrier 1310 to the second panel carrier 1314.

[0245] 12. The method 1500 of any of clauses 10 or 11, further comprising:

[0246] guiding 1508 the panel 1318 to the panel carrier 1310 prior to attaching the panel 1318 to the panel carrier 1310.

[0247] 13. The method 1500 of clause 12, wherein connecting 1512 the panel carrier 1310 to the second panel carrier 1314 aligns the panel 1318 with the second panel 1322.

[0248] 14. The method 1500 of clause 13, further comprising:

[0249] moving 1513 at least one of the panel 1318 or the second panel 1322 using a panel manipulator arm 1388 connected to the carrier and operations frame system 1300 to position the panel 1318 relative to the second panel 1322 within a desired tolerance.

[0250] 15. The method 1500 of any of clauses 10-14, wherein 1514 the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 is performed by a robotic arm 1386 connected to the panel carrier 1310.

[0251] 16. The method of any of clauses 10-15, wherein 1515 performing at least one manufacturing operation on the panel 1318 by the operations platform 1372 of the panel carrier 1310 comprises attaching a plurality of frames 226 to the panel 1318.

[0252] 17. The method 1500 of any of clauses 10-16, further comprising:

[0253] inserting 1516 an operations assembly 1382 into an operations location 1352 of the panel carrier 1310, wherein performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 is performed from the operations location 1352.

[0254] 18. The method 1500 of clause 17, wherein 1518 the operations assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390, the method further comprising:

[0255] securing the operations assembly 1382 to the operations location 1352 using a modular connector.

[0256] 19. The method 1500 of clause 17, wherein 1520 the operations assembly 1382 comprises a robotic end effector, and wherein performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1328 on the panel 1318 comprises performing the at least one manufacturing operation 1382 with the robotic end effector.

[0257] 20. A carrier and operations frame system 1300, comprising:

[0258] The plurality of panel carriers 1308, each panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 includes a frame 1348, 1354, 1360, 1366 configured to act as a positioning plate for a panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 and a guide feature 1350, 1356, 1362, 1368 configured to couple with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers 1308.

[0259] 21. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of clause 20, wherein at least one panel carrier 1310, 1312 includes a plurality of operations locations 1352, 1358 configured to receive a respective operations assembly 1382.

[0260] 22. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of clause 21, wherein each operations assembly 1382 is a replaceable module 1390 configured to connect to an operations location 1352, 1358.

[0261] 23. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of clause 21, wherein at least one operations assembly includes a robotic arm 1386 for performing a manufacturing operation 1328 from a respective operations location.

[0262] 24. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of any of clauses 20-23, wherein each panel carrier 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316 is configured to support a respective panel 1318, 1320, 1322, 1324 during transport 1326, staging 1327, and manufacturing operations 1328.

[0263] 25. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of any of clauses 20-24, wherein the plurality of panel carriers 1308 are joined together to form an operations platform 1372 around the plurality of panels 1304.

[0264] 26. The carrier and operations framework system 1300 of clause 25, wherein the plurality of panel carriers 1308 joined together form a positioning plate 1370 for the plurality of panels 1304.

[0265] The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, different illustrative embodiments can provide different features. The embodiment or embodiments selected and described are chosen for purposes of illustration and to best explain the principles of the embodiment or embodiments and the practical application. Other embodiments falling within the scope of the embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

1. A method (1400) of assembling a structure (1306), the method comprising: providing a plurality of panel carriers (1308), each panel carrier (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) including a frame (1348, 1354, 1360, 1366) configured to act as a positioning plate for a panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) and a guide feature (304) configured to join with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers (1308); attaching (1410) each of a plurality of panels (1304) to a respective panel carrier (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) of the plurality of panel carriers (1308) using a respective temporary fixture (1340, 1342, 1344, 1346) to form a plurality of shipping assemblies (1330); shipping (1326, 1412) the shipping assemblies (1330) to a manufacturing environment (1302) prior to joining the plurality of panel carriers (1308); receiving (1402) the shipping assemblies (1330) including the plurality of panel carriers (1308) in the manufacturing environment (1302), each panel carrier holding a panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) of the plurality of panels (1304); aligning the panel carriers relative to one another using the guide features (304); joining (1404) the plurality of panel carriers (1308) to form an operations platform (1372) around the plurality of panels (1304); and performing (1406) at least one manufacturing operation (1328) on at least one panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) of the plurality of panels (1304) through the operations platform (1372).

2. The method (1400) of claim 1, further comprising: guiding (1408) each of the plurality of panels (1304) to a respective panel carrier (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) of the plurality of panel carriers (1308) prior to attaching (1410) the panels (1304) to the panel carriers (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316).

3. The method (1400) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the step of joining (1414) the plurality of panel carriers (1308) to form an operations platform (1372) around the plurality of panels (1304) aligns the plurality of panels (1304) relative to one another.

4. The method (1400) of claim 1 or 2, further comprising: moving (1415) at least one panel of the plurality of panels (1304) using a panel manipulation arm (1388) connected to the operations platform (1372) to position the at least one panel within a desired tolerance relative to an adjacent panel.

5. The method (1400) of claim 1 or 2, wherein, Performing (1418) at least one manufacturing operation (1328) on at least one panel (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) includes fastening (1380) the plurality of panels (1304) together.

6. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, Performing (1419) at least one manufacturing operation (1328) on at least one panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) includes attaching a plurality of frames (226) to the at least one panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324).

7. The method (1400) of claim 1 or 2, the method further comprising: Positioning (1416) an operational assembly (1382) to an operational position of the operational platform (1372), wherein the operational assembly (1382) is a replaceable module (1390).

8. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, Aligning the plurality of panels on a macro level using the indexing features to align the plurality of panel carriers relative to each other, and after using the plurality of panel carriers to index the plurality of panels on a macro level, a panel manipulation arm on each of the plurality of panel carriers performs a micro indexing adjustment.

9. A carrier and operational frame system (1300), the carrier and operational frame system (1300) comprising: a plurality of panel carriers (1308), each panel carrier (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) including a frame (1348, 1354, 1360, 1366) configured to function as a positioning plate for a panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) and an indexing feature (1350, 1356, 1362, 1368) configured to combine with at least one other panel carrier of the plurality of panel carriers (1308) to align the panel carriers relative to each other, wherein each panel carrier (1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) is configured to support a respective panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) of a plurality of panels (1304) during shipping (1326), staging (1327), and manufacturing operations (1328), wherein the plurality of panel carriers (1308) are configured to join together to form an operational platform (1372) around the plurality of panels (1304).

10. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) of claim 9, wherein, At least one panel carrier (1310, 1312) includes a plurality of operational positions (1352, 1358) configured to receive a respective operational assembly (1382).

11. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) of claim 10, wherein, Each operational assembly (1382) is a replaceable module (1390) configured to connect to an operational position (1352, 1358).

12. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) of claim 10, wherein, At least one operational assembly includes a robotic arm (1386) for performing a manufacturing operation (1328) from a respective operational position.

13. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) of claim 9, wherein, The plurality of panel carriers (1308) joined together form a positioning plate (1370) for the plurality of panels (1304).

14. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein, At least one panel carrier (1310, 1312) of the plurality of panel carriers (1308) joined together to form an operations platform (1372) is configured to provide access to at least one panel to perform at least one manufacturing operation (1328) on the at least one panel (1318, 1320, 1322, 1324) through the operations platform (1372).

15. The cradle and handling frame system (1300) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein, Each panel carrier (202) of the plurality of panel carriers (202) also has a panel manipulation arm to align the plurality of panels (206) to a desired tolerance at a micro level prior to joining the plurality of panels (206) together.

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