Piper Aircraft announced the recent delivery and integration of an Agile Manufacturing Robot (AMR) from Wilder Systems to the M600/SLS production line. This AMR is the result of a collaborative effort between Piper Aircraft and Wilder Systems in order to increase safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the factory. Specifically, the AMR is programmed to drill PA-46-600TP wings. The addition of this AMR will contribute to Piper’s goal of increased production in order to meet the growing demand for the M600/SLS in today’s market.
This project began in August 2022 and has reached numerous milestones since, including initial delivery and first power-up to factory calibration and testing, culminating with a full production handoff at the end of this month. The AMR itself is a 12 ft by 8.5 ft autonomous system that incorporates a light duty drill unit, HSK-E25 tool holder, and programmable drill process. It also has a state-of-the-art safety system, monitored by Keyence Safety Scanners, that will cease operation if an area within the scanner is triggered.
“Investing in the latest manufacturing technology is of the utmost importance to Piper Aircraft,” said Greg Spadaro, Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain. “As we’ve been manufacturing hand-crafted aircraft for over 85 years, we’re constantly finding new methods of increasing both product quality and manufacturing efficiencies to benefit our customers. Additionally, we’re looking forward to now having the opportunity to train our assembly teams on the most advanced production tools, and elevate their skills as aircraft production professionals.”
The Piper M600/SLS with HALO Safety System is the first general aviation aircraft certified with Garmin Autoland. The revolutionary system supports digital technology that safely lands the aircraft at the nearest suitable airport in the event that the pilot is incapacitated. Additionally, the Garmin G3000 avionics suite includes Autothrottle, Autoland, Emergency Descent Mode, Electronic Stability Protection, Surface Watch, and SafeTaxi, all of which are designed to enhance safe operation of the aircraft. Beyond the flight deck, the six-seat M600/SLS is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A 600 SHP engine. The aircraft has a maximum cruise speed of 274 ktas/507 km/h, a max range of 1,658 nm/2,748 km, and a standard useful load of 2,400 lbs/1,089 kg.
To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at www.piper.com.
