Singapore’s technological innovation is under the spotlight at the A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research) stand (Hall C, stand 332K).Technology disciplines including materials, engineering and precision measurements are present, but one of the most eye-catching exhibits is the robot arm under development by the mechatronics group of the Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech).
Any type of tool can be attached to the manipulator arm, but primary uses are expected to be for cleaning and remote inspection.
Lim Chee Wang, research engineer at SIMTech, says: “The arm could help automate manual work for cleaning, maintenance and repair of aircraft and therefore reduce labour costs and cut turnover time.”
The arm is not yet ready for commercial use, but Wang estimates it could be ready for simpler tasks, such as cleaning and polishing within two to three years
Source: Flight Daily News
