Using Hardware Variability Control (HVC) Data for Process Improvements in an Automated/CNC Environment

This paper addresses the use of Hardware Variability Control (HVC) data to make process improvements in the assembly of the Next Generation 737 wing spars. The wing spars are the main structural component of the wing, and the two spars also make up two sides of each wing fuel tank. The wing spars are assembled using the Automated Spar Assembly Tool 3 (ASAT3). This paper covers the development of the ASAT3 HVC measurement plan, discusses the data collection methodology used, addresses process improvements made to the spar using the HVC data, and discusses next steps to improve the HVC plan.