Dassault adaptive cells

Describes the ARMA concept, adaptive robotized multifunction assembly cell, as used at CTRI Robotics, a division of Dassault Aviation. The concept evolved in response to the demand for flexibility in automation system design, having recognized the inherent limitations of overspecialized equipment. Defines the mobility and placement corrective systems, the assembly process, information system, programming system, quality system, cell pilot, process control and man/machine interface. Concludes that the ARMA concept was implemented to provide the capabilities necessary automatically to assemble the Rafale fighter but, more importantly, is flexible enough also to assemble other and future aircraft.