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Leonard Buck

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KF Aerospace Adopts dentCHECK for its Commercial MRO Operations

By dentCHECK, Newsroom, Press, Testimonial

As featured in

Leading Canadian AMO, KF Aerospace successfully implements dentCHECK at its Kelowna headquarters maintenance facility for better inspection quality and time-savings.

This press release was published on PRWeb.

dentCHECK @KF Aerospace

KF Aerospace, a leading Canadian approved maintenance organization (AMO) has begun using 8tree’s dentCHECK to enhance the efficiency and quality of its dent-mapping activities.

“KF performs hundreds of structural repairs annually on a wide variety of commercial aircraft” says Gregg Evjen, Chief Operating Officer, “Implementation of dentCHECK has allowed KF to improve accuracy, accelerate the damage mapping processes, and produce a digital record for our Engineers to utilize as they develop the repairs.”

“We are absolutely thrilled that KF Aero decided on dentCHECK, when they embraced the tool after a rigorous evaluation a couple years ago”, said Arun Chhabra, CEO, 8tree. “They joined the global community of dentCHECK users as the first Canadian firm to do so. Several other Canadian operators have since followed in their footsteps. KF Aero joins the ranks of more than three dozen MROs, airlines and OEMs that use dentCHECK daily to disposition dent-damage on aircraft across the cargo, commercial, business and defense aviation sectors. We look forward to continuing to support KF Aero’s maintenance operations and having them experience 8tree’s exceptional customer service.”

dentCHECK is the world’s only handheld-portable, completely wireless 3D scanner tool with integrated AR that is purpose-built for the aviation maintenance industry. It is now used by the world’s leading commercial, cargo and defense MROs. Delivering real-time ‘go/no-go’ answers at the push of a single-button, the tool significantly reduces damage-mapping and reporting times, compared to traditional manual methods that use depth-gauges and straight-edges.
Approved and recognized by all major aerospace OEMs (Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer), dentCHECK is used by the world’s leading airlines/MROs for fast and accurate damage-mapping and SRM-compliant multi-dent reporting. When compared to traditional inspection methods, dentCHECK delivers a 90% gain in efficiency and 35x better measurement consistency.

OEM-acceptance has led to widespread adoption of dentCHECK amongst airlines/MROs. Detailed case-studies from easyJet, Delta TechOps and TAP-M&E, as well as news from Aeromexico, Airbus’ Flightline, DHL-Express and Zeppelin, demonstrate that dentCHECK drastically reduces inspection and reporting times by up to 90%. This shortens aircraft Turn-around-Time (TaT), which further reduces lost revenues and very directly improves operational efficiency for airlines. dentCHECK enhances safety through an improved understanding of airframe reliability.

About 8tree

“We make precision 3D measurement as simple as taking a photo”

With this vision in mind, 8tree makes 3D optical surface inspection tools that solve chronic problems for multiple industries. 8tree’s products empower every operator – from mechanics on the floor, to engineers in the lab – with instantly actionable precise measurements, portability and performance. With its patented user-centric product design, instant ‘go/no-go’ answers and zero-learning curve, 8tree is committed to making precision 3D scanning more broadly accessible – technically and commercially.

For recent news follow 8tree on LinkedIn.

About KF Aerospace

We’re all about THE CRAFT.
KF Aerospace celebrates 50 years of innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including major airlines like WestJet, Air Canada, Icelandair and Condor. From our humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, air cargo operations and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by our founder in 1970. With facilities across Canada, KF is home to around 1000 highly skilled employees.

To learn more visit http://www.kfaero.ca                                

Kalitta Air, LLC (“Kalitta Air”) Adopts dentCHECK to Enhance Cargo Aircraft Maintenance Operations

By dentCHECK, Newsroom, Press, Testimonial

US cargo airline Kalitta Air implements dentCHECK at its Oscoda MRO facility and CVG line operations, further expanding the tool’s adoption within the air cargo sector.

This press release was published on PRWeb.

Kalitta Air inspectors use dentCHECK at the company’s MRO facility in Oscoda, Michigan.

Kalitta Air inspectors use dentCHECK at the company’s MRO facility in Oscoda, Michigan.

Kalitta Air, a leading US cargo and special-missions airline has begun using 8tree’s dentCHECK to enhance the efficiency and quality of its dent-mapping activities. dentCHECK is the world’s only handheld-portable, completely wireless 3D scanner tool with integrated AR that is purpose-built for the aviation maintenance industry. It is now used by the world’s leading commercial, cargo and defense MROs. Delivering real-time ‘go/no-go’ answers at the push of a single-button, the tool significantly reduces damage-mapping and reporting times, compared to traditional manual methods that use depth-gauges and straight-edges.

“With the implementation of 8tree’s dentCHECK technology, Kalitta Air’s dent mapping program will be elevated to the next level. We look forward to working with 8tree in implementing this state-of-the-art technology”, said Zoltan Kocis, Vice President of Maintenance, Engineering and Procurement, Kalitta Air.

“We are delighted to welcome Kalitta Air to the rapidly growing global community of dentCHECK users”, said Arun Chhabra, CEO, 8tree. “Kalitta Air joins the ranks of more than three dozen MROs, airlines and OEMs that use dentCHECK daily to disposition dent-damage on aircraft across the cargo, commercial, business and defense aviation sectors. We look forward to supporting Kalitta Air’s maintenance operations and having them experience 8tree’s exceptional customer service.”

dentCHECK is approved and recognized by all major aerospace OEMs (Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer) and used by the world’s leading airlines/MROs for fast and accurate damage-mapping and SRM-compliant multi-dent reporting. When compared to traditional inspection methods, dentCHECK delivers a 90% gain in efficiency and 37x better measurement consistency.

OEM-acceptance has led to widespread adoption of dentCHECK amongst airlines/MROs. Detailed case-studies from easyJet, Delta TechOps and TAP-M&E, as well as news from Aeromexico, Airbus’ Flightline, DHL-Express and Zeppelin, demonstrate that dentCHECK drastically reduces inspection and reporting times by up to 90%. This shortens aircraft Turn-around-Time (TaT), which further reduces lost revenues and very directly improves operational efficiency for airlines. dentCHECK enhances safety through an improved understanding of airframe reliability.

About 8tree

“We make precision 3D measurement as simple as taking a photo”

With this vision in mind, 8tree makes 3D optical surface inspection tools that solve chronic problems for multiple industries. 8tree’s products empower every operator – from mechanics on the floor, to engineers in the lab – with instantly actionable precise measurements, portability and performance. With its patented user-centric product design, instant ‘go/no-go’ answers and zero-learning curve, 8tree is committed to making precision 3D scanning more broadly accessible – technically and commercially.

For recent news follow 8tree on LinkedIn.

About Kalitta Air

Kalitta Air is an FAR Part 121 Air Carrier and a leading provider of air cargo transportation, scheduled and on-demand charter service for customers in the United States and around the world. The company operates an all-Boeing fleet of 38 aircraft comprising the 747, 767 and 777 aircraft types. Kalitta Maintenance operates a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport in Michigan. Kalitta Air makes it happen – on time, anytime, anywhere.

Donecle drone "flying dentCHECK" performing damage inspection on commercial aircraft

Proven Drone-Based Automatic Dent Inspection Maps an Entire Rafale Fighter Jet in Just One Hour

By Automation, Insights, Newsroom, Press

As featured in

In early 2020, the French Defense Innovation Agency launched a program in partnership with 8tree, Donecle and Dassault to explore automated drone-based dent-inspection of the Rafale military aircraft.

This press release was published on PRWeb.

flying dentCHECK

Donecle drone combined with 8tree’s 3D sensor — the flying dentCHECK.

The focus of this program was to develop an integrated solution comprising dentCHECK – 8tree’s 3D dent-mapping technology – onboard a Donecle drone, to enable automatic inspection of aircraft surfaces.

Tested on metallic and composite surfaces, this integrated ‘flying dentCHECK’ solution allows the comparison of new inspection results against the aircraft’s digital damage record.

The collaborative project was able to validate the technology at the French military base 118 in Mont-de-Marsan. Within one hour, the flying dentCHECK inspected dents and bumps of an entire Rafale fighter with accuracy of 0.1mm depth and 2mm size.

“It’s all about automating non-destructive testing tasks and procedures. The 100% automated flying dentCHECK drastically reduces the time taken to inspect an aircraft while improving the quality of maintenance operations significantly.”, says Erik Klaas, 8tree’s CTO.

Both 8tree and Donecle will be exhibiting at MRO Europe in Amsterdam, October 19-21. The flying dentCHECK will be showcased at Donecle’s booth #3080C, while 8tree will be demonstrating the latest dentCHECK features at booth #9059.

About 8tree

“We make precision 3D measurement as simple as taking a photo”
With this vision in mind, 8tree makes 3D optical surface inspection tools that solve chronic problems for multiple industries. 8tree’s products empower every operator – from mechanics on the floor, to engineers in the lab – with instantly actionable precise measurements, portability and performance. With its patented user-centric product design, instant ‘go/no-go’ answers and zero-learning curve, 8tree is committed to making precision 3D scanning more broadly accessible – technically and commercially.

For recent news follow 8tree on LinkedIn.


Press release initially published here —
English Version
German Version

Flying dentCHECK — Press Coverage by the French Ministry of Defense

By Automation, dentCHECK, Press

Automate non-destructive testing in aircraft maintenance

Aircraft maintenance requires regular inspection of the aircraft surfaces. We are speaking about non-destructive testing (NDT). These tasks are time-consuming and potentially dangerous for operators working at height. The Defense Innovation Agency (DIA) and other stakeholders called for projects to “automate non-destructive testing“. The project aims to develop solutions to reduce the duration and improve the quality of such maintenance operations.
8tree’s collaboration with Donecle and Dassault to develop a flying dentCHECK is part of this initiative. The French Ministry of Defense recently announced an article and a video about our drone project with Donecle and 8tree.

The article was published in French. Read below a segment about our project and have a look at the video, where you can see the drone flying around a Rafale aircraft.

DONECLE, in partnership with 8tree and Dassault provides an automatic 3D inspection of aircraft skin, thanks to a 100% automated drone. This technique allows to detect and measure surface defects such as dents, impacts, or perforations. Tested on metallic and composite surfaces, the solution also allows comparisons with the aircraft’s digital mapping and digital monitoring of the evolution of defects.
Source

Inspection of Wind Turbine Rotor Blade with waveCHECK

8tree Contracts DNV to Certify waveCHECK™

By Insights, Newsroom, Press, waveCHECK

waveCHECK – 8tree’s latest innovation for rotor blade inspection in the wind industry gets certified according to DNVs standard for wind turbine rotor blades (DNVGL-ST-0376).

This press release was published on PRWeb.

One year after formally introducing waveCHECK into the wind industry, 8tree has engaged DNV for the product’s certification according to established industry standards.

“During the past swaveCHECK in use in wind turbine rotor blade manufacturingeveral years we have learned from stakeholders and experts in the wind industry, that waves and wrinkles in the load-carrying composite structure of wind turbine rotor blades are a critical problem,” said Erik Klaas, 8tree’s CTO. “The accurate and objective evaluation of waves and wrinkles helps blade producers build higher quality blades and reduce the risk of failure during operation. As the industry’s interest in waveCHECK continues to grow, we believe that obtaining DNV certification will be an important milestone on our journey to enabling the renewable energy market.”

“The improvement of quality and reliability of rotor blades is an important topic in the wind industry and we are happy to see that new technologies that support wind turbine blade manufactures are entering the market,” said Ramakrishna Parasarampuram, Head of Section Rotor Blades at DNV. “Certification of 8tree’s waveCHECK will include assessment of the system’s hardware, software as well as the scanning process itself and its boundaries.”

 

About 8tree

“We make precision 3D measurement as simple as taking a photo.”

With this vision in mind, 8tree makes 3D optical surface inspection tools that solve chronic problems for multiple industries. 8tree’s products empower every operator – from mechanics on the floor, to engineers in the lab – with instantly actionable precise measurements, portability and performance. With its patented user-centric product design, instant ‘go/no-go’ answers and zero-learning curve, 8tree is committed to making precision 3D scanning more broadly accessible – technically and commercially.

For recent news follow 8tree on LinkedIn, LinkedIn.


 

waveCHECK is a first-of-its-kind solution for end-to-end digital analysis of composite waviness. It empowers manufacturing teams to quantify composite waviness with unprecedented precision and repeatability.
waveCHECK detects and displays

  • Positive, Negative and Step waves & wrinkles
  • Highest point; shortest distance to edge, in main fiber direction
  • Aspect ratio
  • Angle of wave with respect to main fiber direction
  • Works on carbon fiber and glass fiber surfaces

Learn more about waveCHECK by watching this short presentation video.

 

 

Inspector Gadgets … – Article about Inspection Tools in Arabian Aerospace Magazine

By dentCHECK, Press

“Inspection is a key part of the MRO community’s contribution to aviation safety.
Chuck Grieve reviews developments in inspection tools and methods where communication is king.”

Check out this new article in the Arabian Aerospace Magazine (Issue 3, Vol 13, Aug-Oct) on page 44.

Link to Magazine (article on p.44)

Download PDF (article only)

Surface Inspection Technologies for Wind Turbine Rotor Blades – White Paper

By Insights, waveCHECK

Quality control of wind turbine rotor blades is complex and requires consideration of various aspects. Different inspection technologies are available. However, not every inspection technology is equally suitable for all aspects of wind blade quality.

This white paper outlines and explores the possibilities and limitations of different inspection methods:

  • Thermography
  • Shearography
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
  • Expert Inspection
  • Optical Surface Inspection
  • Trends

Towards dent measurement by drone

By Automation, dentCHECK, Insights

« Can you make dentCHECK fly? »

This is a question which our customers and prospects ask on a regular basis. Dent damage is a chronic and recurring problem on aircraft, due to loading operations, hail-storms, bird strikes, etc.. But detecting, measuring and precisely locating such damage is a long and challenging process, which can be risky for inspectors working at height. As an example, on an annual basis, hail strikes affect 25% of the worldwide fleet and requires dozens of hours of inspection. How can the manual process of dent characterization be improved?

Aircraft hit by a hail strike, courtesy of ©The Aviation Herald http://avherald.com/h?article=47a10f14

In this context, a drone seems an obvious solution.

However, embedding dentCHECK on a drone is not an easy thing to do and requires intense development.

So, the question came up – Who can we collaborate with to make dentCHECK flying?

We identified Donecle as our launch partner to realize the vision of a flying dentCHECK. Donecle as the leader of automated aircraft visual inspection has a strong expertise in drone robotics, automation and aircraft maintenance processes.

After initial tests, we accelerated our collaboration under the approval of the DGA, working together with Dassault on Rafale inspections.

Working on next generation of automated drones for aircraft inspections

The solution features Donecle’s automated drone which will scan targeted areas where risks of dents are well known (such as doors, leading edge, HTP, tail…). The acquired 3D scan data will then be sent into our damage reporting tool which will automatically map and measure dents and generate an SRM-compliant report.

Typical use cases include inspection after hail strike or after hard contact during in-flight refueling for military aircraft; dent measurement around doors which are subject to impacts during loading and unloading operations; inspection of dents and depth defects during aircraft manufacturing, and any other dent inspection in areas difficult to access.

This new unique solution will enable much faster inspections, bring better accuracy thanks to the precise location of the dents relative to the aircraft structure, improve safety of workers (no need to climb on upper surfaces and dangerous areas) and contribute to a paperless process.

The question which is on everyone’s lips is of course: when will it be available? We are making good progress and after recent promising lab tests we conducted the first field-tests on aircraft, before larger deployment 2021.

So, stay tuned, we will soon officially announce the availability of this new product!

Learn more about Donecle: https://www.donecle.com/

dent assessment with dentcheck at amc 2019

dentCHECK vs. Traditional Methods: largest dent-mapping study

By Insights

At the 2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC), dentCHECK helped participating technicians complete an inspection task 8x faster, delivering higher efficiency when compared to using traditional manual methods. In addition, leading maintenance organizations reported that dentCHECK helps engineers create SRM-compliant digital reports up to 10x faster.

Learn more by reading the article series below.

Case StudydentCHECKEventsInsights
16. October 2022

AMC 2022 – dentCHECK vs. Traditional Methods

What is the Aerospace Maintenance Competition? The Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC) is a 2-day competition held in conjunction with the annual MRO Americas organized by Aviation Week. It is a…
Case StudydentCHECKEventsInsights
19. April 2022

Supporting the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals with Technology

Do years of experience and skill level of aviation professionals affect the time taken to complete an inspection task? The answer lies within the choice of tool used. When using…
Case StudydentCHECKEventsInsights
11. April 2022

Zero Learning Curve: Map Dents Easier with dentCHECK

New technology for a decades-old problem: dentCHECK's zero learning curve At the 2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition, more than 150 engineers, technicians, and students discovered the efficiency and accuracy of dentCHECK.…
Case StudydentCHECKInsights
31. July 2019

Tick-tock, tick-tock. Accelerate Aircraft Inspection, Avoid Delays and Save Money

At the recent 2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC), dentCHECK helped participating technicians complete an inspection task 8x faster, delivering higher efficiency when compared to using traditional manual methods. In addition,…
Case StudydentCHECKInsights
5. July 2019

Make better decisions with measurements you can trust

Passersby couldn’t ignore the significance of data emerging from the recent 2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC) #AMCAero.  It is tough to ignore that traditional manual measurements have 18x poorer measurement…
Case StudydentCHECKfastCHECKInsights
12. June 2019

How Did 100 Different Manual Measurements Stack Up?

What do you uncover by analyzing hundreds of manual measurements of the same surface? The Truth. 8tree conducted the world’s most comprehensive study of dent-mapping in the aviation sector, at…
Case StudyInsights
29. April 2019

Aircraft hail-damage: What tools will aircraft maintenance crews use for the job?

What does an aviation technician do when their aircraft is pummeled by hail? To contrast traditional methods vs. emerging technology, more than 150 engineers, technicians, and students participated in a…