High Performance Robotics for Aerospace Paint Finishing Operations 2008-01-2236

In the last few years, the Robotics Division of ABB Inc. has made some key contributions to the high performance robotic paint finishing technology. The developments have been predominantly motivated by the applications required for the automotive industry, but they are still highly applicable to aerospace applications, both for aircraft assembly and part manufacturing. These developments include: new IRB5500 robots with increased work envelope and acceleration capability; highly efficient RB1000 paint atomizer family; CBS advanced paint saving cartridge technology; new robotic powder paint application (IC-3) and color change (PCC) equipment; DispensePac sealant and adhesive robotic dispensing systems including newest applications of sprayable masking materials; TrueView vision and force control systems supporting applications in work object location, robot guidance, part cleaning, sanding, polishing and masking. Development, performance and applications of these technologies for the aerospace industry are presented in this paper.