Focus on Direct Velocity Mapping in knowledge session with TNO

Direct Velocity Mapping for non-destructive inspection (NDI)

A key highlight of the session was the introduction of Direct Velocity Mapping (DVM), a new technology for NDI. DVM uses ultrasonic Lamb waves and a MEMS sensor array to detect anomalies in materials. The system is contactless, fast, and clean, and can automatically inspect large surfaces.

This offers major advantages for the aviation sector, including MRO, where quality and safety are paramount. DVM can examine both metals and composite materials and is capable of revealing defects such as wall thickness loss and delamination. This makes the technology suitable for quality testing during assembly, automatic robot inspections, and integrity monitoring of materials throughout their service life.

Broader perspective: digitization and smart manufacturing

In addition to DVM, TNO demonstrated how digitization and smart manufacturing contribute to innovation in aviation and MRO. Topics covered included:

• Digital work instructions and operator support systems, which make maintenance processes more efficient and error-free.
• Automated workflows for visual inspections, where measured results trigger immediate follow-up actions.
• Autonomous production workflows, such as combining 3D printing and CNC machining to increase production efficiency and reduce material usage.
• Digital Twins and data-driven quality control, which increase the reliability of processes and enable predictability.

These innovations show how technologies developed in the manufacturing industry can also have a major impact on the MRO sector.

Discussion and next steps

The presentations were followed by a lively discussion about the applicability of the technologies and the next steps towards implementation. The following actions, among others, were identified:

• Exploring further civil-military cooperation, which is the main focus within Hive Aerospace Collective.
• Investigating a field trial with the Ministry of Defense, Fokker Services Group, and/or other partners within the HIVE network.

Conclusion

The session made it clear that the combination of Direct Velocity Mapping and TNO’s broader smart manufacturing developments has great potential for the aviation sector. By accelerating and automating inspection processes and supporting maintenance with digital tools, there are concrete opportunities to make MRO more efficient, reliable, and future-proof.