The Challenge: With increased demands in performance and production rates for the next generation of fuel-efficient aircraft, Airbus has the challenge of creating wings that reduce drag, fuel burn and emissions while balancing the need to increase production rate.

Solution: Creating Digital Assembly for Wing (DAWN), the project is a consortium effort, led by Airbus and consisting of Capgemini, CFMS, Cranfield University, Dassault Systèmes, and the University of Sheffield. DAWN is centred around Airbus’ Wing of Tomorrow programme which develops and innovatively applies end-to-end digitalisation for the assembly of aircraft wings. DAWN provides Airbus with a complete digital smart factory solution that uses technologies such as geolocation, IoT sensors, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), digital twin, machine learning and robotics among others.  

Benefits:

• Improved workflow efficiency via the use of AGVs to deliver parts and tools to operators.
• Better first-time assembly rate and minimising the need for inspections by using an algorithm to predict the quality of fasteners.
• Visual inspection of the wing conducted by AGVs can detect anomalies, eliminating the need for more detailed inspections unless necessary.
• Improved process control.
• Connect the supply chain, operational workers and support functions to manufacturing assets and assembly processes.
• Reduced cycle time.
• AR technology provides immersive visual guides for assembly – helping to reduce build time and improve training.
• IoT sensors provide access to real-time data, allowing engineers to make better, more informed decisions.