Improving Manual Manufacturing with a Computer Based Laser Projection System

The application of computers to manufacturing has been largely in the area of total automation. (CNC, robotics, etc.). This paper describes a computer based laser projection system which is currently in use in several specialized aerospace applications. The system delivers accurate dimensional information directly onto large (meters), complex work surfaces for manual manufacturing tasks. Most manual manufacturing processes can be dramatically improved by delivering electronic dimensional information (CAD data) accompanied by electronically based multi media work instructions directly to the person performing the work. The results of applying this system will be lower costs, higher quality and improved time to market for products which are manually prototyped or manufactured.