Automotive assembly technology benefits aerospace engine handling system

摘要

Gary Sweeney, managing director of leading conveying and materials handling specialist Exmac Automation, discusses the benefits of transferring automotive assembly technology into the aerospace industry, and offers an insight into the specification and manufacturing processes to be considered. Exmac Automation has recently completed an engine handling project for the Rolls-Royce facility in Derby. Besides prefacing a unique method of automated assembly within the aerospace industry, the automated process for the transportation, assembly and build of large aircraft engines also highlights the transfer of technology between the automotive and aerospace industries. Experience of conveying and handling systems for complex automotive assembly plants such as those at Intier, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover can certainly help aerospace customers understand how automotive systems operate and, more importantly, convince them that similar systems can be made to work for aircraft engine assembly.