ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

Sanad, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions leader wholly owned by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company PJSC (Mubadala), Lufthansa Technik Middle East (LTME), the Dubai based subsidiary of Lufthansa Technik, a global provider of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services, and Khalifa University of Science and Technology have successfully demonstrated their innovative robotic arm at Lufthansa Technik’s headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, marking a significant advancement in efficiency and innovation in the aviation sector.

The partnership between LTME, Sanad, and Khalifa University's Advanced Research and Innovation Center (ARIC) marks a significant advancement in integrating artificial intelligence within the MRO industry. Together, they have developed an automated chord measurement system that combines an industrial robotic arm with a laser profiler, bringing cutting-edge technologies like AVIATAR to the forefront of aviation maintenance. The joint efforts have resulted in revolutionary technology that enhances the efficiency and accuracy of MRO processes, positioning the UAE as a hub for aviation innovation.

The automated chord measurement system, the first-of-its kind aerospace R&D initiative successfully tested in the UAE, was developed over 18 months. This process, from ideation to testing, was guided by the Sanad R&D team and the research team at Khalifa University’s ARIC, including 10 UAE National undergraduate students, a PhD researcher, three research engineers, and two faculty members. The technology underwent rigorous testing at the ARIC centre and Sanad, resulting in a perfected system that is now set to be operationalised in MRO processes at Sanad.

After successful testing in the UAE, the robotic arm underwent further analysis at Lufthansa Technik's Hamburg headquarters, for its potential in laser analysis within the MRO sector, showcasing the UAE's role in pioneering aviation technology and driving industry advancements. This advancement is set to revolutionise aircraft maintenance, reducing repair turnaround time, improving efficiency, leading to significant cost savings and maximized aircraft availability.

Ziad Al-Hazmi, CEO of Lufthansa Technik Middle East, said: “Our collaboration with SANAD and Khalifa University is a testament to the expertise and capabilities of the teams involved. It not only positions the UAE as a leader in digital transformation in the MRO industry and signifies the government’s commitment to digital awareness, but also shows the impact of successful collaboration in the aviation sector.”

Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Sanad, said: "This collaboration epitomises the pivotal role of academia-industry partnerships in driving Sanad's innovations strategy, and we are confident about scaling up these collaborations. Our partnership with Khalifa University and Lufthansa Technik Middle East marks a significant stride towards setting new standards in aircraft maintenance. By harnessing the power of innovative technologies, we are driving efficiency and cost savings, ultimately benefiting the aviation sector globally.”

Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said: "We are delighted that the results of our groundbreaking collaboration with SANAD and Lufthansa Technik Middle East have spearheaded the development of a transformative automated chord measurement system to reduce errors due to human reliance, increase precision by a factor of ten, and overall efficiency in components repair turnaround time by 35 per cent. With the robotic arm now headed to Germany for further testing, this partnership demonstrates the immense potential for academic-industry breakthroughs to drive innovation and efficiency in the MRO sector. By involving and enabling our faculty and students to contribute to this cutting-edge technology, we are not only preparing local talent for successful careers, but further positioning the UAE as a global nexus for aviation excellence. This is also a testament that Khalifa University has the ability to translate its research and innovation to market and have a local and global impact."

This collaboration showcases the UAE's advancing research and development prowess, tackling global aviation challenges and opportunities. Its goal is to transform MRO processes, bolstering the UAE's standing as a technological frontrunner in aviation. The successful development of this innovative technology underscores the UAE's dedication to leading global aviation. The collaboration emphasises a commitment to education empowerment, providing student career growth opportunities at Lufthansa Technik and Sanad. These initiatives will enhance collaboration among MROs, universities, and governments, solidifying the UAE's reputation as an innovation and technology hub.