Case Study

A leading aircraft manufacturer uses Assembly Copilot to optimize complex drilling operations through real-time tool tracking and process verification.

Background

A global aircraft manufacturer wanted to ensure precision and quality in their carbon fiber drilling process. The process involved multiple drilling and countersinking operations that required various tools and specific sequences. With strict quality and compliance requirements, the manufacturer needed a solution that could verify each step of the assembly process to prevent expensive errors.

Challenge

The assembly process involved precise drilling and countersinking of 18 different holes. The process required drills of different sizes, and using incorrect ones resulted in complete replacement of expensive carbon fiber components. The lack of a process tracking system increased the probability of costly errors. Additionally, proper part orientation and operation sequence were critical for quality assurance.

Enter Assembly Copilot

Assembly Copilot provided an automated verification solution using computer vision and AI. The system was implemented with a simple setup with a single 2MP USB camera mounted above the work area. The camera was mounted using steel rods and a variable friction arm. The system could track tools and verify correct usage in real time using AI algorithms trained on just 30 minutes of video footage.

The implementation included a vision-based guidance system that provided step-by-step instructions and alerts to operators. The system tracked tool movements at 30 frames per second, allowing immediate detection of incorrect tool usage or missed steps. It could verify the proper use of all tools, including the critical angle tool requirements for specific holes.

Result

The system’s flexibility allowed quick task updates without retraining. Processes could be modified for new objects or sequences to accommodate changes in assembly requirements.

Assembly Copilot demonstrated reliable tool and process verification by sending alerts on the wrong usage of tools and visual guidance for each step. When following the system’s guidance, the process achieved 100% operational correctness. It maintained consistent performance in tracking the complex and multi-step assembly process across various lighting conditions and handling methods.

Profile

A leading aircraft manufacturer focuses on precision assembly and quality verification in their complex manufacturing operations.

Industry

Aerospace & Defense

Product

Use Case

Optimize complex drilling operations through automated tool tracking and process verification.

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