Lockheed Martin’s funding will help promote and speed up the development of CPS2, a successor to Ingersoll’s current integrated composite programming software, iCPS.
The aim of this AFP software development is to provide more flexibility and ease-of-use throughout Lockheed Martin's automated composite processing. CPS2 will be independent of both the AFP machine and the software's operating system. The new software will interface to any of the more commonly used CAD programs, including a direct interface to FiberSim from Vistagy.
Common independent software offers more freedom from supplier specific products, and will provide the user with significant cost-savings over the life-time of multiple machines, explains Ingersoll Rand.
CPS2 is based on more then 20 years of experience in composite automation software, but will also offer new functionality in addition to improvements on existing features.
CPS2 will be complemented by a total solution software bundle to support AFP throughout the entire process. Offering one package with similar 'look-and-feel' to assist with initial part design, simulation, machine motion optimization and final lay-up will reduce training and streamline the design and production process.