TRI Austin is a leading research and development organization specializing in advanced materials, nondestructive testing (NDT), and innovative engineering solutions. With a strong focus on cutting-edge technologies, TRI Austin serves industries such as defense, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing, delivering tailored solutions to meet complex technical challenges.

Our multidisciplinary team of mechanical, electrical, and computer science engineers, and software developers collaborates to design, prototype, and implement state-of-the-art systems that enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and safety. TRI Austin is renowned for its expertise in robotics, ultrasonic scanning, automated inspection systems, materials characterization, and leveraging these capabilities to drive innovation in critical applications.

As a trusted partner to government agencies and private sector clients, TRI Austin is committed to advancing the frontiers of technology through rigorous research, precision engineering, and a dedication to quality. Our mission is to provide transformative solutions that empower our clients to achieve their goals while maintaining the highest standards of performance and integrity.

Problem Statement:

Inspections are difficult and that difficulty is increase by human factors. Those factors can be keeping track of 1200 fasteners on a wing being inspected or holding an inspection unit over you head to inspect those 1200 fasteners. While inspectors are holding the scanner over their head in a particular spot they also have to watch the inspection unit to verify that data is good and identify any defects.

Technology Solution Statement:

TRI Austin will leverage previous experience in developing non-destructive inspection methodologies and integrating them with collaborative robots to demonstrate this capability on aircraft. The technology areas of interest defined by the USN include:

1. Advanced Robotic Systems Integration for Aircraft Maintenance and Repair
2. Human-Robot Collaboration and Safety in Aviation MRO
3. Emerging Technologies for Autonomous Aviation Maintenance

TRI has developed a demonstrator collaborative robot (cobot) that optimizes workflow efficiency and further develops Human-Robot Collaboration for use in overhaul maintenance and repair of aircraft.