Airbus is busy initiating a digital transformation. Earlier this week, the aerospace group announced a five-year collaboration with French company Dassault Systèmes. In addition, Geldermalsen-based Ultimaker was chosen to supply 3D printers for Airbus' European facilities.
Dassault's 3DExperience platform will play a major role in Airbus' digital transformation. It allows Airbus to integrate all processes with With this platform, Airbus can fully integrate its processes with a single data model. This makes it possible to apply the Digital Design Manufacturing and Services (DDMS) principle across all divisions and product lines. For example, it can be used in the design of. new aircraft. Many steps in the design and manufacturing process can be performed in parallel, which Airbus hopes will improve cooperation with manufacturing partners, for example, and save costs. Moreover, products can be brought to market faster.
"We can now completely change and innovate the way aircraft are designed and used. In doing so, we will streamline and accelerate all our processes," said Guillaume Faury, president Airbus Commercial Aircraft in a press release. "DDMS is a 'catalyst for change' for us. As Airbus, we want to develop a new model for the European aerospace industry based on cutting-edge technology. Our aim here is to create a robust production environment that will deliver a substantial gain in terms of the speed at which we develop products."
Ultimaker
In addition, Airbus has selected Geldermalsen-based Ultimaker to supply 3D printers, Ultimaker Cura software and materials for its European facilities. These will be used to produce tools, moulds and fixtures directly and locally. It also uses the Ultimaker printers to print lightweight parts with composite materials.
Jos Burger, chief executive of Ultimaker: "Strict regulations regarding safety and certifications make manufacturing and setting up workflows complicated, especially for iegineers in the aerospace industry. I am pleased that our certified solution and the ability to print with composite materials enables these engineers to continue to innovate. The team at Airbus can fully rely on our dedicated global sales and partner network."
According to a recent Frost & Sullivan report, the global market for 3D printed materials in the aerospace industry will grow to nearly half a billion euros by 2024.
Source: Computable.nl/Ultimaker
