Researchers at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) are embarking on an initiative to explore the application of digital twin technology, particularly focusing on composite materials, to redefine aircraft repair for the next generation.
The initiative is part of the Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications, and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) Trailblazer project, UniSQ said in a news release.
A digital twin is essentially a computer version of a physical object or system, known for its role in sectors like manufacturing due to its ability to test and forecast in a virtual space, minimising risks and costs associated with real-world testing.
Under the iLAuNCH Trailblazer project, researchers at the UniSQ Centre for Future Materials will leverage digital twin technologies provided by Melbourne-based aerospace company MEMKO.
This collaboration will extend to working alongside the global aerospace giant Boeing to apply the technology to composite-based manufacturing.
Lead researcher Dr Tristan Shelley highlighted the primary objective of achieving increased digitalisation in manufacturing processes for composite materials.
“The digital workflows we develop will be used for a Boeing case study focused on the repair of composite components to eliminate both engineering and laborious processes, leading to more efficient and effective maintenance, repair, and operations of future aircraft and spacecraft fleets,” Dr Shelley said.
The project will also focus on advancing filament winding pathway developments, particularly for intricate components not easily supported by existing software.
Dr Shelley emphasised, “The linkage of vision tools in-situ during filament winding into the digital twin is key to optimised manufacturing processes.”
Meanwhile, Darin Lovett, the executive director of iLAuNCH Trailblazer, underscored the transformative potential of the project in digitally revolutionising the repair process for aircraft and spacecraft constructed from composite structures.
