Project Description

In an effort to increase the performance capabilities of the Cessna Caravan, engineers at StandardAero contacted East Coast Metrology. StandardAero, a Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) company, specializes in engine maintenance, repair and overhaul, and nose-to-tail services that include airframe, interior refurbishments and paint for business and general aviation, air transport, and military aircraft.

The Problem

The project goal was to take the current configuration of the aircraft and replace the PT6-114A engine with a new engine similar to the PT6 to provide increased horse power. The end result will increase the mission capabilities while allowing the aircraft to carry heavier payloads and fly at higher altitudes.

For East Coast Metrology to assist in the reconfiguration of the Cessna Caravan power plant, highly skilled metrologists were needed to create high precision measurement data that would quickly and efficiently scan the caravan.  They also needed data that would seamlessly convert into a 3D digitized model. The project began with the measurement and reverse engineering of all of the aircraft components from the firewall forward. From there, the new engine model was fit into place and the design phase began. All components (air ducts, structure, cowlings, etc.) needed to be adjusted for fit and increased air flow.

The Solution

Because DAE is a globally recognized aerospace corporation focusing on aircraft leasing and MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul,) StandardAero relied on ECM to use the best 3D laser technology to capture the high precision measurement data that would translate into a solid CAD model for the Cessna Caravan. The CAD-to-part comparison was exactly what was needed, allowing Caravan operators, “improved efficiency.”