The demand for aircraft interior equipment is constantly growing due to general increase of personal air travel, individualization of design and limited life cycles. This especially poses challenges to the manufacturing of sandwich panels as a main component of interior parts. The current processes need to adapt to the increasing demand for individualized parts in small batches. In this paper, we propose a concept for the automated production of planar sandwich panels consisting of NOMEX honeycomb core and fiber reinforced prepreg sheets. The concept consists of an optimized process chain, concepts for automated honeycomb potting and automated sandwich laying. A novel approach for modelling of the potting process is developed to ensure completely filled cells without air entrapment. Simulations and time analysis show the general feasibility and give a first estimation of achievable production rates. The conclusion of the paper outlines the focus of further research.
