The Boeing Company
Integrated automation of paint processes incorporating arrayed painting and inkjet printing

Abstract:

Surface treatment of a tubular surface defining an axis extending from a first surface end to a second surface end includes partially surrounding the tubular surface, at a first position, with a first set of treating units, with the treating units arranged in a first arcuate array. Furthermore, each treating unit is configured to include a plurality of first applicator heads. In some examples, a position of each of the plurality of first applicator heads is determined relative to the tubular surface. The first set of treating units is moved from the first position towards a second position. In one non-limiting example, each of the plurality of first applicator heads is independently controlled to selectively apply a first treatment as the first set of treating units moves from the first position towards the second position.