Move over Boeing Machinists, robots to build 777
Jul 14, 2014, 8:00 AM | Updated: 9:11 am
Fuselage sections of the 777 family will be built using these robots, which will drill and fill more than 60,000 fasteners currently installed by hand. (AP Photo/File)
(AP Photo/File)
Boeing’s worst-kept secret was confirmed by the company Monday.
Boeing has announced it is in final testing of a new robotic assembly line that will be implemented on the 777 family.
“The Fuselage Automated Upright Build” (FAUB) is designed to improve efficiency, productivity and workplace safety. Fuselage sections will be built using these robots, which will drill and fill more than 60,000 fasteners currently installed by hand.
Boeing’s Elizabeth Fischtziur said the addition of robots doesn’t mean Boeing machinists will lose their jobs.
“Employees currently building these sections will either transition to working with FAUB and with the robotics, or move to other positions in the program or to other programs on the Everett site where there’s demand for that skill set,” Fischtziur said.
Boeing plans to use the robots in assembly as soon as they are approved. Fischtziur said the company expects them to be used on the current 777 family and then on the 777X when that production facility is completed.
