New end-to-end digital framework for optimized manufacturing and maintenance of next generation aircraft composite structures

GENEX project aims at developing a novel end-to-end digital twin-driven framework based on enhanced computational models, which embed the interdisciplinary knowledge of the aircraft components and the manufacturing/repairing processes, to support the optimized manufacturing of composites parts, enable the continuous operation of aircrafts and improve the composites repairing processes for ensuring aircraft´s safety and airworthiness.

First, automated ATL process coupled with THz-based in-process monitoring together with hybrid-twin simulation methods will be developed for eco-efficient and advance manufacturing of innovative reprocessable-repairable-recyclable (3R)-resin-and state-of-the-art thermoplastic composites.

Second, innovative data- and physics-based machine learning algorithms for damage detection and location combined with advanced high-performance computing (HPC)-based multi-physics and artificial intelligent-powered digital twin tools for fatigue life prediction, will be implemented to transform information from optimized onboard piezoresistive sensors data networks interfaced with low-power wireless communication platform to health and usage assessment and prognosis.

Third, augmented reality tools together with novel laser-assisted methods for surface cleaning and monitoring , smart monitoring and in-situ tailored heating of composite repair blankets will be further developed to provide additional assistance in manual scarf repair operations , increasing reliability of repair process, while supporting the modification and virtual certification of MRO practices.

Thus, a novel digital twin-driven framework will be implemented into a common IIoT platform to integrate the developed models and data acquired, providing bidirectional dataflow, and enabling the implementation of a holistic and comprehensive data management methodology ensuring to adequately create, capture, share, and reuse knowledge along the entire aircraft lifecycle.