Research group Production-integrated quality assurance

The focus of the DLR Centre for Lightweight Production Technology in Augsburg on the real-time recording of plant data during production in combination with specialised sensor systems for quality parameters that are adapted to the process means that production can be continuously monitored and readjusted in good time before rejects even occur.

Quality for production: naturally inline!

Naturally inline - this is how tomorrow's quality assurance should work. Thanks to the focus of the DLR Centre for Lightweight Production Technology in Augsburg on the real-time recording of plant data during production in combination with specialised sensor systems for quality parameters adapted to the process, production can be continuously monitored and readjusted in good time before rejects even occur.

Inline QA methods: utilising the full potential

Our QA methods include

  • Optical measurement technology
  • Computer vision
  • Laser light sectioning
  • Fibre angle measurement
  • Laser tracker, point clouds
  • Thermography (passive, lock-in, pulse, ultrasonically excited, 3D)
  • Air-coupled ultrasound (reflection, transmission, lamb-wave, Puls-Echo)
  • Process and environmental data acquisition
  • Data storage and evaluation
  • Automated evaluation using customised algorithms, machine learning and artificial intelligence
  • Digital twins and offline programming
  • Laser ultrasound

We are also happy to develop customised solutions with you. The holistic approach is particularly important to us: measurement data is not just data, it is directly related to reality: to the component, design, construction drawing, material parameters, simulation and much more. For example, the depth-resolved 3D thermography developed at ZLP Augsburg allows defects to be localised directly in the component coordinate system. In this way, test results can be immediately fed back into the design and simulation.

Full-scale and inline: the key to productivity

Carrying out measurements on large components quickly and cost-effectively while never losing sight of the big picture - that is our expertise. From detailed CAD models aligned with reality to customised offline programmes or autonomous automation solutions through to 3D-located measured values on full-scale components - reliable quality can only be achieved by merging all data sources. Inline and full-scale for the quality assurance of tomorrow - our vision, which we are already working on today.

Further information & links

Contact

Dr. Ing. Alfons Schuster

German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Structures and Design
Center for Lightweight Production Technology Augsburg
Am Technologiezentrum 4, 86159 Augsburg