Robotic Defastening
ID: AF233-D009Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Robotic Defastening

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2023

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2447981

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Aug 23, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Sep 20, 2023 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Robotic Defastening" as part of the SBIR 23.3 BAA. The Air Force branch is specifically interested in this technology. The objective is to develop an AI-assisted defastening robot that can improve process time and quality. Currently, the defastening process is conducted manually by production personnel using hand drills, resulting in long hours and potential fatigue. The proposed technology aims to automate this process, reducing personnel fatigue, improving quality, and reducing process time. The Phase I requirements include demonstrating an understanding of fastener removal on aircraft and showing feasibility of defastening with a 50% or more time reduction compared to the manual process while maintaining 95% accuracy. In Phase II, a mobile prototype capable of reducing flow days on various aircraft with different types of fasteners should be developed, along with an integration path for implementation across Maintenance Depots. In Phase III, the goal is to integrate multiple mobile defastening robots into the PDM process, potentially across different aircraft, to prove efficiency and accuracy improvements. The technology is restricted under ITAR or EAR regulations. Relevant keywords include robotic defastening, manual drill rivets, automated repair, and E-Drill. The solicitation is closed, and more information can be found on the DoD SBIR website.

Files
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