The VR coating technology of AkzoNobel, designed to train coaters by using a virtual paint booth, will be integrated into the future training programmes of International Aerospace Coatings.
The Aerospace Coatings division of the international paints and coatings supplier AkzoNobel has announced a collaboration with International Aerospace Coatings (IAC), which specialises in aircraft coating, to integrate its virtual reality (VR) painting technology into the future training programmes, with the aim of immersing the coater in a virtual paint booth along with the aircraft to be painted.
The system is programmable with several coating parameters, such as required coating thickness, recoating times
and custom spray gun configuration. Furthermore, while the operators use the spray gun, they can view the amount of paint used
to look for any inconsistencies during the application, as well as to measure the distance, angle and speed at which the gun is used. It also shows where failure occurs, where there is insufficient wet film thickness or inadequate coverage to provide the desired finish.
“For new starters, it provides an immersive learning experience, while for existing staff, it offers opportunities for upskilling and career development. One of the major advantages is the efficiency of the VR system, providing engaging training without material waste. Having the flexibility of access to this technology on a daily basis enhances our training programs and motivates and empowers our staff,” has stated John Mulqueen, Vice-President Operations EMEA at IAC.
IAC can eliminate waste, reduce costs and further improve safety, since no physical products are involved
in the process. There are no costs or time associated with cleaning spray guns, additional VOCs released by required solvents or providing the panels needed for liquid coating training. Virtual reality therefore allows customers to train coaters quickly and cost-effectively – allowing trainees to make mistakes without incurring high costs for scrap and rework.
“This technology will help IAC upskill our existing painters and allow our painters to trial new primer/paint systems without the use of actual materials, this is a game changer from a waste perspective, as we will have zero emissions and no waste generated from this program. We also intend to roll out a ‘Top Gun’ competition globally for our painters to see who can achieve the highest score when painting a complex component,” has added Emmett Moran, Head of Operations at IAC.