Overview
The use of HLFC (Hybrid Laminar Flow Control) systems is an important advantage that will improve the aerodynamic efficiency of flights significantly. Either using passive or active solutions many challenges have been tackled and demonstrators have been developed in the past.
To be able to assemble the HLFC systems to the leading edge of the wing complex tools should be developed in order to obtain aeronautic standards in terms of tolerances and geometry accuracy. Sensorization of complex tooling is a technique that allows to monitor the complete process of assembly ensuring that the process is being done in the proper way or, if not, understanding what is happening and enabling corrective actions. Build-up stress and deformations measurements, automatic best-fit positioning, sensors recording key parameters to feedback engineering assumptions and calculations, are some examples.
As part as Industry 4.0 the sensorization of tools and the use of new technologies such as additive manufacturing will be implemented in the development of this project called HLFC 4.0.
The consortium of HLFC 4.0 is formed by two leading companies with broadly experience in the fields of aeronautic design and manufacturing of systems and structures (ADATICA) and in the design and manufacturing of tools including sensorization for industry 4.0 (ACTEMIUM).
Putting everything together, this project will drive to the manufacturing of two HLFC systems, passive and active, and a sensorized tool to assemble these systems to the leading edge. Also as part of the project HLFC 4.0 and due to ADATICA expertise in DfAM (Design for Additive Manufacturing) drilling templates will be designed and manufactured using additive methods.