The USAL collaborates through augmented reality techniques in the maintenance of the army's F-18s

Thanks to three-dimensional models of procedures, it is possible to achieve significant cost savings in the maintenance of the Spanish military air fleet..

The research group on Information Technologies for 3D Digitization of Complex Objects (TIDOP), directed by Diego González Aguilera and belonging to the Department of Cartographic and Terrain Engineering of the University of Salamanca, is collaborating with the Air Force to develop an augmented reality system that allows significant cost savings in maintenance tasks for the F18 fleet.

In the Siceman project, in which the company ITP also participates (Turboprop Industry) and the TIDOP research group of the University of Salamanca, Air Force Logistics Support commanders participate to obtain three-dimensional models of different maintenance tasks.

Thanks to augmented reality, Technicians can now virtually repair the braking system and landing gate of F-18s.

These recreations that are based on data obtained with different capture systems on real aircraft with photogametry or computer vision techniques will allow faster and more precise decision making., thus improving safety and reducing maintenance costs.

Recently, a team from the Cartographic and Photographic Center of the Air Force (CECAF) carried out a series of tests at the Albacete Air Master for the recording of 3D three-dimensional images and rendering of parts during the maintenance tasks of the F-18 fighter-bomber.

After these first experiences carried out successfully, In the coming months the project's research and development team will focus its activity on the user interface and improving immersive conditions.

The project has a budget of 2,5 million euros and is co-financed by the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness and the European Union, through the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER).