Large work envelope fully automated aircraft panel polishing cell

Abstract

Describes a polishing cell with two six‐axis robots which has been developed to process panels up to 45 ft long for aircraft skins. The robots have full backup capability and use tailor‐made end‐effectors with force‐feedback control and visual and audio feedback. Outlines the three main areas of the cell: the load and unload area, the operator console and the robot processing area. Looks at the software developed for the system which includes integrated Off‐line programming.