RUAG Australia has been awarded full patent rights in Australia, Europe, the US and Canada for its “Methods for Treating Aircraft Structures”.
This patent relates to the use of Supersonic Particle Deposition (SPD) as an alternative aircraft component repair technology to save the time and costs associated with traditional repair techniques or part replacement. SPD repair capabilities significantly improve aircraft and component return-to-service times.
RUAG Australia’s patent application identifies the use of the additive metal technology, Supersonic Particle Deposition (SPD), as a fully certifiable alternative for safe and reliable repairs. According to the patent, SPD is an ideal method for rapidly repairing corroded, worn and damaged components as opposed to repair by traditional methods or outright component replacement.
Potential cost and time savings make this solution particularly relevant for the repair of expensive components and for components with long repair/replacement lead times.
“The awarding of this patent underscores our commitment to research and development and the application of emerging additive technologies to offer reliable and accessible service for defence and commercial aviation customers,” Neil Matthews, Senior Manager Additive Technologies, RUAG Australia, said.
“Our ability to provide unique repair solutions that enable our customers to be operationally ready, faster, is essential to our in-country mission. Patent approvals ensure these capabilities for all our customers. It is a fantastic achievement for Neil and for RUAG Australia as a whole,” Terry Miles, General Manager, RUAG Australia, said.
RUAG has also submitted an application for another patent featuring the use of SPD technology, “Methods for Restoring an Aircraft Frame Element”, which has been awarded by Europe in January 2019 and is currently under review in Australia and the USA.