Wheel Drive Unit (WDU) und Wheel Unit (WU)
Electric drive & load units for mobile maintenance platforms in aerospace
System capacity up to 125 t
Omnidirectional steering
Convert stationary platforms into mobile units
The intelligent combination of electrically steered drive units (WDU) and high-performance load units (WU) delivers an innovative retrofit solution for automating assembly processes in the aerospace industry.
A key advantage is the ability to mobilise existing stationary access platforms into highly mobile, flexible platforms suitable for aircraft assembly, aircraft maintenance and Final Assembly Lines (FAL). The well-engineered drive concept is complemented by a compact control cabinet, powerful lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries, and an ergonomic radio remote with HMI display—for maximum control, precision and operator comfort. Thanks to innovative multi-directional steering electronics, loads can be manoeuvred precisely in any direction. Depending on capacity requirements, up to 16 drive and load units can be combined modularly, enabling system loads of up to 125 tonnes to be moved in aerospace production.
Aerospace retrofit solution
Turning stationary platforms into mobile platforms
With Wheel Drive Units (WDU) and Wheel Units (WU), companies in the aerospace industry gain decisive advantages across assembly and maintenance:
- Greater efficiency: Converting stationary access platforms into mobile platforms drastically shortens setup and changeover times.
- High flexibility: A modular system scalable to up to 16 units moves loads of up to 125 tonnes—ideal for diverse Final Assembly Lines (FAL) and aircraft maintenance (MRO).
- More safety & precision: Omnidirectional steering enables exact manoeuvring, even in tight production and maintenance environments.
- Cost savings: Retrofit existing equipment—no need for full new-build investments.
- Future-ready: Optional assistance and line-tracking guidance systems boost operator comfort and safety over the long term.
Turn stationary platforms mobile — with WDU & WU retrofit solutions
Our experts are happy to help you mobilise existing platforms with WDU & WU and achieve lasting gains in FAL and MRO.
Key features
Acting as the main drive, the WDU teams with WU load units in coupled mode to mobilise access platforms. Spring-mounted wheel modules maintain constant ground contact, while multi-directional steering electronics deliver precise, omni-directional movement.
The WU provides primary load support for the platform. Twin wheels reduce floor pressure, while a pendulum mounting keeps the wheels in continuous contact with the floor.
Open architecture enables lead–acid or lithium-ion options, chosen according to charging intervals, duty duration and system load profiles.
The overall system—comprising the drive units (WDU) and load units (WU)—is primarily controlled via the supplied radio remote. This allows the operator to keep the system in view from any vantage point and manoeuvre it safely. The remote’s integrated display shows all relevant system information in real time.
Additionally, the control cabinet houses an HMI display that presents all operating data clearly. Information shown includes, for example:
Battery status
Current drive mode
Wheel positions
Travel speed
Optional features such as distance measurement and line-guidance systems can be integrated to further enhance operator comfort and safety.