Develop modern weapons using 3D technology

To limit the development costs to millions, US-based Sikorsky will use 3D technology to develop the CH-53K.

US-based weapons manufacturer Jan. 19 announced the creation of a virtual factory to assemble the complete CH-53K heavy cargo helicopter for the Navy.

Due to the fact that there are more than 20,000 details of the design, it is a difficult task to graft the complete details and can lead to major damage if mismatched. So the 'virtual' factory, which is built right in the Sikorsky engineering lab in Connecticut, will help engineers assemble pieces in 3D. All of these devices are linked to three computers that act as " commanders " operating the system.

Senior Sikorsky Aircraft Chief Executive Officer Mark Miller said, " The technology allows us to design and develop a simple maintenance aircraft that will not rely on imagination. "They will be able to experience all parts of the aircraft before they are built ."

Sikorsky's virtual reality system has proven its value by helping engineers detect errors that need to be corrected on a variety of fuel lines. The CH-53K helicopter, replacing the US three-speed CH-53E heavy duty helicopter, is currently under development and demonstrates the system.