Automated Surface Preparation of Embraer’s Commercial Jet Fuselage for Painting Process

The surface preparation of the fuselage prior to painting is largely done manually in the Aerospace Industry; utilizing scrubbers, sanders, chemicals, and manlifts resulting in safety and ergonomic issues without delivering a consistent result. The automation of the process employing robots, vision systems, machine movers, and automated process equipment provided the following benefits:

• Improved Safety and Ergonomics
  • Reduced exposure to hazardous materials and working conditions
• Improved Consistency and Quality
• Improved Production Capabilities and Reduced Labor Costs
• Reduced Material Usage
  • Less weight
  • Lower environmental risks
  • Lower cost

This paper will describe the equipment used and the process changes required to automate the surface preparation process, then discuss the benefits that were realized.