![Robotics](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-robotics.jpg?itok=MGe5QH3Z)
Robotics
Robotics are being used to make MRO and supply chain tasks simpler, quicker and safer. SR Technics is using mobile climbing robots to enhance aircraft maintenance inspections while Rolls-Royce is developing a variety of robotics projects, such as “swarm robots” for engine inspection. The European SPIRIT project is seeking to develop a “universal inspection machine” with the help of companies working within aviation, such as FACC, Voestalpine and Marposs. Meanwhile, companies are investing in robots for everything from composite repair to parts manufacturing to washing aircraft.
![Blockchain](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-blockchain.jpg?itok=5Mwhvw06)
Blockchain
Blockchain adoption is gaining traction for MRO, with Accenture reporting that 86% of aerospace and defense companies expect to integrate blockchain technology into their corporate systems by 2021. Parts Pedigree, which is building a platform to make digitizing parts records easy, is currently piloting the approach with a major aerospace parts distributor. Earlier this year, MRO software provider Ramco Systems teamed up with open-source blockchain developer XinFin FinTech to build hybrid blockchain solutions for its customers. Companies within the industry continue to investigate blockchain for applications such as recording and tracing data across an asset’s lifecycle and authenticating maintenance records.
![Drone Inspections](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-drones.jpg?itok=gca-aUu5)
Drone Inspections
Drones have become popular for aircraft inspections thanks to their ability to reduce inspection times and improve safety for workers. AFI KLM E&M has been partnering with Donecle and easyJet has been partnering with Blue Bear Systems Research to integrate drone inspections within regular maintenance operations and Lufthansa Technik is trialing the technology in Malta. Meanwhile, Airbus plans to release an advanced drone system to inspect aircraft inside a hangar as part of its Hangar of the Future project.
![Augmented and Virtual Reality](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-ar-vr.jpg?itok=l5gRV8IP)
Augmented and Virtual Reality
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools are being used for a wide variety of applications within MRO and aviation, such as remote collaboration, technician training, booking seats and previewing aircraft configurations and liveries. Major players like Airbus, Boeing and GE are investing in AR/VR companies specializing in wearables or 360-deg. video. to further industry innovation using the technology. Meanwhile, AR/VR software providers such as Atheer are testing their technology for MRO use cases and working to make their product compatible with all the wearables on the market.
![Composite Inspection Tools](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-inspection.jpg?itok=obeWUdfo)
Composite Inspection Tools
With an increased amount of composite materials being used for aircraft structures and components, more versatile inspection tools are hitting the market to identify damage more easily. Handheld scanners using methods such as ultrasound, polarized structured light and 3D scanning help cut down the time required for inspections while providing more consistent results. These tools can be paired with analysis software to visualize and interpret inspection results.
![Additive Manufacturing Machines](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/tech-tools-additive.jpg?itok=PSv8ZCc2)
Additive Manufacturing Machines
Additive manufacturing is increasingly being used as a solution to fulfill the need for parts availability, particularly thanks to its potential for reduction in weight, cost and lead time. Airlines and are looking to DIY additive parts and OEMs are further moving into 3D printing of metal parts as a disruptor to the industry. Boeing recently invested in Digital Alloys, the creator of a metal additive manufacturing technology called Joule Printing that uses metal in wire form and high deposition rates to produce parts. Stratasys also recently debuted its innovative H2000 printer, which it says has “infinite print” capability to make extra-long parts thanks to its horizontal build orientation.
Simplifying and improving safety within MRO operations while reducing time and cost is the ultimate goal. Could these innovative new technology tools be the key to meeting it? Find out how airlines, MROs and OEMs are using everything from additive manufacturing and composite inspection tools to blockchain and robotics to keep up with increasing demands.