Aircraft parts such as engine cowling must be repainted regularly in a process that requires the original paintwork to first be removed. The procedure is time consuming and requires the use of hand grinders or chemicals.
However, this could soon change thanks to a new sand blasting process developed by Sappi. Deploying pressurized air to blast corn starch onto painted surfaces, the process requires constant jet speed, while the nozzle must also be kept at the same distance from the surface.
Researchers at the ZHAW School of Engineering have now developed a robot system that can perform this precision work.
“Instead of programming a fully automated robot, we developed a system that allows the workers to use the robot as a smart tool – almost like a high-precision extended arm,” explained project manager Marcel Honegger.
Humans can direct the robot using a tablet, but the robot independently manages the orientation, distance of the jet from the surface and the speed.
“As a high precision system, it removes only the paintwork while protecting the surface beneath,” added Honegger. The process is also reported to be more efficient and ecological, because it does not require the use of chemicals.
According to the ZHAW School of Engineering, the first tests on the robot have been successfully completed. Now, the system is to undergo testing by Air France. Honegger highlighted that applications in the railway industry would also be feasible.
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