Unsettled Issues on Human-Robot Collaboration and Automation in Aerospace Manufacturing

Is human-robot collaboration the future for aerospace manufacturing? It is widely acknowledged that the application of robotics and automation in aerospace manufacturing is significantly lower than might be expected given the size and value of the industry and its technologically advanced products. When deployed, it tends to be either in relatively simple activities, such as machine loading and handling, or in the form of large bespoke systems for processes such as fastening. The reason for this is multifactorial but includes product variability, size, design philosophy, and relatively low volumes. Also, there is occasional reticence due to a history of past false starts. that increase the perceived risk associated with the introduction of new technologies.

Current thinking suggests that the emerging technology of human-robot collaboration provides an ideal solution, combining the flexibility and skill of human operators with the precision, repeatability, and reliability of robots. However, this is a topic that tends to generate emotional and emotive reactions within the industry ranging in extremes from a brave new and inevitable future for aircraft manufacturing and assembly, to workers living in fear of a robot invasion and lost jobs. In this SAE EDGE Research Report we seek to build a comprehensive picture of the current state-of-the-art of human-robot applications and identify key issues that unlock the technology's potential. We have sought the views of recognised thought leaders to understand and deconstruct the myths and realities of human- robot collaboration, and how it could eventually have the impact envisaged by many.

NOTE: SAE EDGE(TM) Research Reports are intended to identify and illuminate key issues in emerging, but still unsettled, technologies of interest to the mobility industry. The goal of SAE EDGE(TM) Research Reports is to stimulate discussion and work in the hope of promoting and speeding resolution of identified issues. SAE EDGE(TM) Research Reports are not intended to resolve the challenges they identify or close any topic to further scrutiny.