Pratt & Whitney, jumpstarting its artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled engine inspection capabilities, has acquired Aiir Innovations and begun integrating the Dutch company’s software into its shop workflows, the engine-maker announced July 15.
Aiir’s software analyzes borescope video and flags possible issues, applying AI based on its database of confirmed issues. The results both shorten engine inspection analysis time and help engineers zero in on possible problems.
“Using AI, you get faster responses, more predictable responses, more consistent responses,” Pratt & Whitney President Rick Deurloo said. “As MRO shop visits happen, parts get dispositioned and an engineer is looking at that hardware. How do you use AI to disposition those parts faster and with more predictability and consistency?”
Many Pratt & Whitney MRO customers already use Aiir, Deurloo said. The Christchurch Engine Center, a Pratt/Air New Zealand joint venture, is the first to use the software regularly, for V2500 work.
Pratt is also piloting the software on both PW1100G and F135 engines.
“We have more testing to do, but ultimately we would like to be able to use it for us, but also for our customers,” said Military Engines President Jill Albertelli.
AI-enabled inspection makes the review process faster and more flexible. Images can be sent to trained borescope engineers for analysis and validation, for instance—a major advantage in an era where seasoned expertise in the MRO world is at a premium.
“Broadening the integration of AI-assisted inspection capability strengthens our ability to detect issues earlier, improve turnaround times, increase time on wing and reduce operational disruption for our customers,” said Rob Griffiths, senior vice president, Commercial Engines Operations, at Pratt & Whitney. “It will fundamentally reshape how engines and components are inspected, maintained and supported throughout their lifecycle, as we increase its application across Pratt & Whitney.”
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