Modelling lay-up automation and production rate interaction on the cost of large stiffened panel components. (March 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mullan, M.; Murphy, A.; Quinn, D.; Price, M.; Butterfield, J.; Cowan, S.; McElroy, P.; Hawthorne, P.; Robertson, S.
• Is Part Of: Aeronautical journal. Volume 118:Number 1201(2014)
• Page Start: 275
• Page End: 296
• Publication Date: 2014-03
• Subjects: Aeronautics -- Periodicals; 629.1305
• DOI: 10.1017/S000192400000912X
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0001-9240

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents an integrated design and costing method for large stiffened panels for the purpose of investigating the influence and interaction of lay-up technology and production rate on manufacturing cost. A series of wing cover panels (≈586kg, 19·9m 2 ) have been sized with realistic requirements considering manual and automated lay-up routes. The integrated method has enabled the quantification of component unit cost sensitivity to changes in annual production rate and employed equipment maximum deposition rate. Moreover the results demonstrate the interconnected relationship between lay-up process and panel design, and unit cost. The optimum unit cost solution when using automated lay-up is a combination of the minimum deposition rate and minimum number of lay-up machines to meet the required production rate. However, the location of the optimum unit cost, at the boundaries between the number of lay-up machines required, can make unit cost very sensitive to small changes in component design, production rate, and equipment maximum deposition rate.