Project description
New welding tool for Europe’s aircraft assembly line
The joining of thermoplastic composites (TPCs) is an important step in the manufacturing of aerospace TPC structures. The next generation of passenger aircraft will make extensive use of TPCs, which are lighter in weight and can be joined by welding. Not only does this eliminate the need for fasteners but also improves reliability and reduces assembly costs. To leverage the full potential of TPCs in aviation, the EU-funded TCTOOL project will develop new end-effectors for the jigless assembly of TPC fuselage structures. It will also develop new adaptive tooling for the welding of thermoplastic fuselage skin to stringers and frames. The aim is to achieve cost-effective zero-defects assembly for Europe’s aircraft assembly lines.
Fields of science
- engineering and technologymaterials engineeringcomposites
- engineering and technologymechanical engineeringvehicle engineeringaerospace engineeringaircraft
- social sciencessociologyindustrial relationsautomation
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectronic engineeringrobotics
- natural sciencescomputer and information sciencessoftwaresoftware applicationssimulation software
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
CS2-IA - Innovation actionCoordinator
CB21 6AL Cambridge
United Kingdom
See on map
Participants (4)
41039 La Rinconada Sevilla
See on map
UB8 3PH Uxbridge
See on map
SE10AA London
See on map
CM12 9DF Billericay
See on map
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.