The aerospace industry is experiencing rapid change as manufacturers explore and adopt new technologies. From artificial intelligence (AI) in aerospace to blockchain technology and beyond, these groundbreaking innovations are already having an impact on the way aircraft are designed and manufactured.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence (AI) in aerospace has tremendous potential if leveraged thoughtfully and correctly. Manufacturing and maintenance represent just a small fraction of the possibilities represented by AI in aerospace.
Predictive Maintenance
One potential application of artificial intelligence in aerospace is predictive maintenance. AI can identify trends in maintenance schedules and detect small changes and inconsistencies in aerospace system performance. AI in aerospace systems can leverage that information to anticipate failures or issues before they happen or evolve into larger problems. By leveraging AI in aerospace to empower human workers to address maintenance concerns early, aerospace companies can reduce downtime and the incidence of more serious problems.
Quality Control
AI can be an excellent partner to human experts during the aerospace manufacturing quality control process. AI can detect inconsistencies that may be more challenging for a human quality assurance professional to spot, adding an additional layer of assurance to the quality control process.
Supply Chain Optimization
The global supply chain is vulnerable to a wide range of disruptions, from natural disasters to labor shortages. AI can rapidly assess multiple supply chain variables and determine the most efficient route for shipping and sourcing. As a result, aerospace companies can ensure timely delivery even when the global supply chain is experiencing disruptions.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is an umbrella term for physical objects with sensors connected via a wireless network. IoT and connected devices appear in a range of product categories, from home appliances to aerospace manufacturing equipment. Leveraging IoT in aviation and aircraft manufacturing has the potential to increase efficiency and enable confident decision-making.
Real-Time Monitoring
One way to leverage IoT in aviation is the strategic placement of sensors on aerospace manufacturing equipment. Sensors on IoT and connected devices can measure machine output and identify bottlenecks and other issues in real time. Technicians and supervisors can then investigate and find ways to make their aerospace manufacturing floor more efficient.
Asset Tracking
Some aerospace companies attach sensors directly to valuable assets for the purpose of tracking. The sensor delivers constant location data, making it all but impossible for the asset to go missing. This application of IoT in aviation can reduce loss and the headache of managing valuable assets in a fast-paced environment.
Data-Driven Decision Making
IoT and connected devices record more data than other types of equipment, supplying more information to managers and leaders who can leverage that input to make better decisions. With IoT in aviation, especially manufacturing, aerospace companies can optimize their systems and achieve greater efficiency.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is a new system for recording secure, verifiable, immutable records, especially sequential records, such as transactions or chains of custody. There may be significant potential for blockchain in aerospace.
Supply Chain Transparency
Blockchain technology removes any ambivalence surrounding the supply chain by creating an immutable record of any and all transactions, from purchases to transit. Leveraging blockchain in the aerospace supply chain ensures a consistent record between all parties.
Parts Traceability
Parts traceability is critical in aerospace. Aerospace parts often represent proprietary intellectual property and considerable investment in top-quality raw materials. Blockchain technology enables secure documentation of every stage of a component’s journey, from raw material procurement to quality assurance of the finished product, which reduces the risk of counterfeit parts and other issues.
Smart Contracts
One interesting application for blockchain in aerospace is smart contracts. A smart contract is a fully automated agreement that allows users to streamline transactions and enforce any regulatory compliance requirements with minimal human intervention. The result is more convenient records of agreements and contracts.
NMG’s Perspective on Emerging Technologies
With so many years of experience in aerospace manufacturing, NMG Aerospace has witnessed the adoption of countless new technologies and innovations. Our team is keeping close tabs on how blockchain technology, IoT technology, and AI in aerospace are adopted by airlines, manufacturers, and other leaders. We are cautiously optimistic about the potential represented by these new technologies for the future development of safer, smarter aerospace components, such as evacuation slide components, rub strips, and life raft systems.
Choose NMG Aerospace for Your Next Project
NMG Aerospace has proudly served as a trusted manufacturing partner for many major aerospace companies for over 60 years. We have witnessed and evolved alongside countless innovations and changes of the aerospace industry and have remained a steadfast source of support, service, and excellence for our valued customers.
You can count on NMG to help you manufacture excellent, high-performance aerospace components and navigate variables such as tight timelines and regulatory compliance with ease. From the earliest stages of aerospace component design to final performance testing, NMG has the expertise and experience you need to achieve your goals.
To get started on a project, contact us >
0 Comments