SAESL wins Aviation Award for Smart Inspection System at SBR National Business Awards 2024

This cutting-edge system employs Deep Learning AI to enhance aircraft engine maintenance.

SBR National Business Awards 2024 Winner: Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd from Charlton Media Group on Vimeo.

Singapore Aero Engine Services (SAESL) has been distinguished in the Aviation category at the SBR National Business Awards 2024 for its innovative Smart Inspection System. This system represents a leap forward in aircraft engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for Rolls-Royce Trent engines, aligning with the MRO 4.0 Technology Roadmap initiated in 2022. This roadmap aims to revolutionise traditional MRO processes to meet the evolving demands of the aviation sector, and the Smart Inspection System is a prime example of this ambition brought to life.

The journey towards industrialisation of the Smart Inspection System began in May 2023, following four intensive development phases spanning conceptual and technology selection, development of a Fan Blade Inspection System, Turbine Bearing Support inspection development, and comprehensive training programmes. This culmination of phases, achieved by mid-2023, marked the transition to industrialisation, facilitated by the collaborative efforts of the Project Management Office, Engineering, Operations, Finance, and SAESL’s research partners.

At the heart of the Smart Inspection System lies a pioneering Deep Learning Artificial Intelligence algorithm. This algorithm is capable of autonomously learning to identify and classify various defects in engine parts by analysing data points from numerous sources. Equipped with a camera mounted on a robotic arm, the system can detect a range of defects, including dents, nicks, scratches, and pin damage on engine parts, aligning with stringent inspection specifications.

Moreover, the system boasts a 3D data processing measurement algorithm, which precisely measures defects' depth, width, length, and diameter, ensuring comprehensive defect analysis. This technological advancement enables SAESL to generate detailed reports that are instrumental in determining the airworthiness of engine parts, thereby enhancing the safety and reliability of aviation operations.

The implementation of the Smart Inspection System has yielded substantial benefits, including a dramatic reduction in manual inspection hours, process improvement, and enhanced defect detection repeatability. This efficiency gains not only optimises resources but also contributes valuable defect data to engine manufacturers like Rolls-Royce for ongoing engine enhancement efforts. Furthermore, the automation system minimises human errors and fatigue associated with manual inspections, thereby improving overall inspection quality and safety.

Training initiatives associated with the Smart Inspection System have upskilled SAESL employees in automation equipment handling, robotic programming, and AI data table modelling. These skills are crucial for preparing the workforce for future technological advancements and expansion opportunities.

Looking forward, SAESL holds the intellectual property rights to the Smart Inspection System, providing a solid foundation for further development in collaboration with industrial partners. Whilst currently applied to Disc and Case components, plans are underway to extend the system's application to other critical engine components, promising significant reductions in engine turnaround times.

In addition to the Smart Inspection System, SAESL is poised to introduce a series of smart technologies, including Quick Machining Solutions, Automated Blasting Systems, and Automated Blending Systems. These advancements are set to elevate productivity levels and product safety standards in the aviation industry, showcasing SAESL's commitment to innovation and excellence.

The recognition of SAESL at the SBR National Business Awards 2024 underscores the company’s pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation MRO through digital transformation and smart technology integration, heralding a new era of efficiency and safety in aircraft engine maintenance.

The SBR National Business Awards is presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional contributions to the local business landscape in Singapore, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].