The CCAT modeling and simulation initiative is supported by a talented team that works closely with manufacturers and the USAF Air Logistics Centers (ALC's) and the Air Command Centers (ACC's) to help them discover cost savings and efficiencies in their operations using computer-based computational modeling and simulation software technology.  Typically the M&S team will apply currently off the shelf (COTS) software solution to help our customers optimize individual manufacturing processes, or the flow of information or materials through the facility.  In addition the M&S team often works with software vendors to help them improve or enhance there products for ease of use, and improvement on the implementation and execution speed of the applications.  We also have the ability to apply our technology offerings to make process improvements to factory floor layout, testing the feasibility of a manufacturing cell or implementing lean concepts in the manufacturing process.

 To learn more about the subjects listed above (and below), please contact Tom Scotton, Manager, Modeling and Simulation (tscotton@ccat.us) 860-282-4216 or select the subject header from the list below.

 CAD/CAM/REVERSE ENGINEERING

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation program offers specialized services in the areas of computer-assisted design (CAD), computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) and reverse engineering. For CAD, CCAT works with both SolidWorks® and Autodesk® products, as well as other 3D design validation, product data management and product documentation software. CCAT can help companies to access a set of tools to build virtual prototypes that can analyze how a product will work under real-world conditions before its ever built -- reducing the need for building multiple prototypes. CCAT also advises companies in the use of CAM software -- such as MasterCAM® and EdgeCAM -- to demonstrate advances in tool path methods, NC file setup and optimization and interoperability with CAD software. CCAT can also assist companies in the process of reverse engineering a virtual model of an existing part for use in CAD, CAM, Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) and other animation/visualization software.

ASSEMBLY SEQUENCE DEVELOPMENT (Authoring of Electronic Works Instructions)

Using specialized software, CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team works with companies to build 3D models to visualize and validate process design for assembly and dis-assembly. These virtual tools allow engineers to determine the best assembly and dis-assembly process for a given part, and can be used for shop floor instructions, maintenance instructions and training.

ERGONOMIC MODELING & ANALYSIS

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team can perform Ergonomic Simulation Analysis, which allows companies visualize and evaluate work cell designs to see how human operators interact with parts, fixtures and tools in a virtual 3D environment. Detailed analysis reports rate work-cell designs and operator safety using industry standards. Ergonomic Simulation Analysis software allows saves time and money by identifying accessibility and human safety issues before they become a problem in the real world

ROBOTIC WORKCELL DEVELOPMENT FOR PROCESS OPTIMIZATION AND OFF LINE PROGRAMMING

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation program can help companies to perform robotic feasibility studies and programming in an environment where product data and manufacturing resources can be integrated into a single 3D model.  This model then becomes a tool for generating the robot motion based on the geometric definition of the parts being processed.   This can be done off-line, while the robot is performing other processes.

METAL WORKING OPTIMIZATION

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team helps companies apply advanced manufacturing products for metal working process optimization. For CNC milling and turning the trained staff can apply a number of products including AdvantEdge™, Production Module™, Optipath®, CutPro®, and ShopPro® to reduce cycle time, increase tool life, improve surface finish and reduce scrap/rework.  Grinding processes can also be analyzed and improved.  With the help of GrindSIM a better surface finish and increased wheel life can be realized. Additionally, for broach processes much of the process parameters are built into the tooling. For this the CCAT has acquired Broaching Operation Simulation Software (BOSS) to analyze and design a better broach cutter to optimize the broaching process.

COMPOSITES MANUFACTURING PROCESS DESIGN AND AUTOMATION

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team has access to the latest software tools to help small manufacturers design and optimize their composite manufacturing processes. The tools include physics-based models for draping fabric onto contoured molds, and resin flowing into shaped performs during the resin transfer molding [RTM] process. Using these tools can give insight into the total process and enables virtual process iterations to save time & money. CCAT continuously looks for emerging tools and helps small manufacturers to determine if they can improve the design of their part manufacturing processes. 

METROLOGY (Automatic CMM Programming, Structured Light Projection Inspection)

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team can advise companies and educators on the use of new methods of measurement techniques, such as non-contact measurement, which can give quicker and more complete information on a particular part. CCAT is also exploring the latest capabilities in traditional contact measurement approaches, including new software tools for more efficient programming of Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMMs).

ONLINE TRAINING

CCAT's Modeling & Simulation team offers several online training programs for manufacturers. CCAT is a training partner of Immersive Engineering and their online virtual CNC machine/programmer training system. This learning productivity tool offers unlimited access to train and rehearse in the Virtual Training Environment for CNC machining. The system enables learners to develop greater confidence and proficiency prior to performing actual procedures and operating equipment. Students can learn to program virtual mills and lathes, gain experience with industrial control panels, edit, load, run and save NC programs, set tool and work offsets, operate touch probes, experiment with stock material removal, apply canned cycles and respond to control alarms.CCAT also offers training in Immersive's online virtual Mastercam software system via the CNC machine/programmer training environment. This includes online, self-directed training for Mastercam computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software users looking for quality Mastercam training. The system allows students to learn at their own pace and benefit from the knowledge of expert corporate trainers who bring their extensive industrial experience and Mastercam mastery to each lesson

 VALUE STREAM MAPPING / STATISTICAL PROCESS CONTROL / FACTORY MODELING

CCAT works with a wide variety of manufacturing companies to deploy technologies that can boost efficiency of factories. A core component of these services involves Value Stream Mapping (VSM), which helps companies to streamline the method in which products move through their manufacturing process. CCAT also advises companies on the use of Statistical Process Control (SPC) programs, which are used to analyze variations in a manufacturing process. Using these and other tools, CCAT's Modeling & Simulation program provides insight into how low-level decisions affect the overall operation of a manufacturing system, as well as the effects of process variability, machine downtime, and resource allocation on system throughput, inventory, and many other metrics. Using this information, CCAT can help companies make smarter decisions about how to increase manufacturing capability. 

For more information on the above capabilitie/services please contact:  Tom Scotton (tscotton@ccat.us) 860.282.4216