Aerobotix completed a turnkey robotic system designed to apply multiple advanced coatings to the leading edge of military helicopter blades. The custom solution demonstrates how automated robots can deliver military-grade precision while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Custom Configuration Maximizes Existing Infrastructure
The system features a FANUC P250iA robot mounted on an overhead gantry, custom-configured to fit within the customer’s existing paint booth. This strategic approach significantly reduced both program costs and implementation timeline, avoiding expensive facility modifications.
The robotic system handles three helicopter blades simultaneously, each up to 33 feet long, applying three different unique coatings to meet tight tolerances.
Breakthrough Laser Locating Technology
Aerobotix exceeded customer expectations by developing a low-cost automatic laser locating system that mounts directly to the robot arm. This technology enables real-time laser articulation over blades, automatically adjusting paths and eliminating expensive precision fixtures.
“If the end user was required to build new, accurate tooling, this program might not have been cost-effective,” explains Scott Pfeifer, an Aerobotix software engineer who developed the laser locating code.
Smart Engineering Delivers Results
By combining creative problem-solving with practical cost considerations, Aerobotix delivered a solution that meets military precision standards while remaining budget-friendly. This project shows how advanced robotics adapts to existing infrastructure, proving automation doesn’t require starting from scratch.
