The Institute of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul based in Hamburg Finkenwerder conducts research in the field of optimization and automatization of maintenance processes and explores innovative technologies for diagnostics, maintenance and modifications of airborne systems. The institute’s research strategy focuses on a holistic exploration of novel technologies with special emphasis on the synergy effects through modular MRO architectures. Further aspects include the evaluation of the sustainability impact of these alterations on the aircraft life cycle. The vision of the institute is to maximize the operational efficiency of a range of products such as airborne systems, wind turbines and rail bound vehicles by consideration of the entire product life cycle. To turn this vision into reality health and condition monitoring, predictive and demand-oriented maintenance are combined. Comprehensive analysis of product utilization data and thorough expertise in the field of MRO processes support the life cycle enhancement. The core of the research activities is a digital twin of the evaluated product which links the real object to a virtual representation. This virtual model is brought to life by provision of data collected during operations and maintenance. Through evaluation of the digital twin over the course of its operating life, advantageous insights into MRO challenges are gained which can be utilized to claim new fields of business for MRO service providers. Furthermore the consolidation of the life cycle model analysis with information acquired by the digital twin enables the development and optimization of operational, maintenance, and repair strategies.
The MRO 4.0 Application Center provides the means for hands-on evaluation and demonstration of innovative technologies and supports the close collaboration with partners from industry and science.
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