VISTA

The testing of aircraft interiors are typically performed by human operators. Automation is crucial to achieve the necessary level of consistency and accuracy of the testing results. The VISTA concept is disruptive in terms of innovation in the instruments and procedures for interiors testing, introducing a high level of automation. At the same time, VISTA aims to take into account the human factor. Indeed, the VISTA technologies are conceived to assist and support the workers improving their overall physical and cognitive involvement in the testing operations. The VISTA project aims to post-assembly testing of aircraft interior installations in both cabin and cargo units. This goal is pursued by the development and implementation of a multi-sensor platform and processing algorithms. 3D snapshot and color cameras are integrated on an automated guided vehicle (AGV) collecting and storing sensor measurements, while traversing both cabin and cargo areas. Acquired data are fed to high-level algorithms determining whether the arrangements of components (hatracks, sidewalls, cargo panels) with respect to positioning, gap and flush, satisfy expected criteria. Moreover, it inspects surfaces looking for scratches or other anomalies. Inspection results are made available to the human operators via suitable interfaces, able to create value and bring benefits in different scenarios. On site inspection officers are able to wear Augmented Reality (AR) devices such as Hololens and get information while physically inspecting the panels. Remote working is accounted as well, with an interface that can work on tablets or computers enabling to “virtually” inspect the aircraft interiors, whenever, wherever.