Digital fabrication can be used in aerospace engineering in the following ways:
1. Rapid prototyping: Digital fabrication can be used to rapidly create prototypes of aircraft components using 3D printing, CNC machining, or laser cutting. This allows for faster design iteration and testing.
2. Composite manufacturing: Digital fabrication can be used to manufacture composite materials using automated preform laying and resin infusion. This allows for precise control over the material properties and reduces waste.
3. Precision machining: Digital fabrication can be used to machine complex aerospace components to high precision using computer-controlled milling machines or lathes. This ensures that components are manufactured to exact specifications and tolerances.
4. Tooling and jigs: Digital fabrication can be used to create custom tooling and jigs for aerospace manufacturing. This reduces the time and cost required to create specialized manufacturing equipment and increases efficiency.
5. Additive manufacturing: Digital fabrication can be used in additive manufacturing technologies like Direct Energy Deposition (DED) or powder bed fusion which can create parts with a high degree of geometric complexity and is useful for making components in low volume requirements with high precision.
Overall, digital fabrication can significantly reduce the time and cost of aerospace engineering, enabling more efficient production and innovation.
Publication date: