"Piloting" as a noun meaning alignment, fit

[Nate Laverdure]

File this one under issues I have with new robotics jargon:

I have just recently started to hear the word "piloting" used as a noun to describe the relative alignment and fitup of mating components in an assembly. All instances were in reference to excellent, excellent VexPro parts.

Merriam-Webster and the OED don't include this particular usage. A Google search for "perfect piloting" lists a VexPro part in the top-10 results; all other top results were in reference to the steering and navigation of ships and aircraft.

Now, I'm not a prescriptive grammarian, but is this a new development in engineering language, or have people been saying this for a while?


Some examples:
Part description for the VersaPlanetary gearbox:

...these plates are custom designed for each motor to provide perfect piloting and high efficiency.

Part description for the HTD VersaPulleys:

...include the VersaKey mounting system for effortless piloting to VEXpro wheels or VersaHubs