Automated Fuselage Marking via Image Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The marking operation during the assembly of electromechanical systems on aircraft fuselage portions is the longest and most tiresome, often resulting in approximate or incorrect markings, leading to mounting issues.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a mobile assembly with a high-definition video camera that performs automatic image recognition to accurately locate and mark predetermined positions on the fuselage, reducing the need for human intervention and minimizing errors through a first image recognition process for navigation and a second for precise marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual marking operation is performed by specialized operators, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but the operation becomes the longest and most tiresome, leading to approximate or incorrect markings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical marking operation with an automated optical-mechanical system. A mobile assembly equipped with a video camera captures images of the fuselage, and a computer automatically processes these images to control a marking device (such as a laser or inkjet printer) to perform the marking operation automatically, eliminating manual intervention and significantly reducing operation time while improving precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the mobile assembly autonomously navigates to predetermined positions on the fuselage, automatically captures images, processes them through image recognition algorithms, and executes marking operations without requiring specialized operators. The computer-controlled system performs all operations autonomously based on pre-programmed sequences
2Reliability
If manual marking is performed to accommodate complex positioning requirements, then adaptability is maintained, but errors frequently occur originating from the marking operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual marking with an automated computer-controlled system that uses video camera imaging and digital image processing to determine precise marking positions. The computer calculates exact coordinates and controls the marking device accordingly, eliminating human error while maintaining the ability to handle complex positioning requirements through software algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the fuselage surface through video camera imaging. This optical copy is then processed by the computer to identify predetermined positions and generate marking instructions. This digital replica allows for precise measurement and positioning without physically measuring the actual fuselage, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through software
3Extent of automation
If specialized operators perform marking operations, then skill-based precision is achieved, but human intervention increases and errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces human operators with an automated system comprising a mobile assembly, video camera, computer, and marking device. The computer executes image recognition algorithms and controls the marking device automatically, achieving high automation while managing system complexity through integrated software-hardware coordination
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile assembly serves multiple functions: it navigates autonomously to predetermined positions, captures images of the fuselage surface, processes these images through recognition algorithms, and controls the marking device. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for separate specialized equipment while maintaining automation benefits
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables reliable and efficient automatic pointing of locations, reducing human intervention, minimizing errors, and ensuring uniform marking across aircraft, thereby enhancing the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a first image recognition process performed by said video camera and being able to recognize said positions
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure include methods in which locations within an aircraft fuselage are automatically pointed to and marked so that a part may be fastened at each marked location. A mobile assembly includes a video camera that may capture images of the aircraft fuselage. A plurality of predetermined locations may be visualized and verified by a successive implementation of a first image recognition process and a second image recognition process. The mobile assembly may then automatically point to the predetermined locations after each has been identified and mark each predetermined location.