Overview

NCSIMUL Composites is an advanced simulation software developed by Hexagon, designed to enhance the precision and efficiency of composite material lay-up processes. It offers realistic 3D simulations for various methods, including fiber placement (filaments or ribbons) and filament winding. By accurately modeling the material lay-up process, NCSIMUL Composites enables manufacturers to optimize their operations, reduce errors, and achieve higher-quality outcomes in composite manufacturing.

Features and Capabilities

• Realistic Material Lay-Up Simulation: Simulates fiber placement and filament winding processes with high accuracy, considering initial media, previously laid material, and roller positions.
• Precise Fiber Positioning: Allows independent and exact positioning of each fiber within a ribbon, ensuring optimal material placement.
• Individual Fiber Cutting Control: Provides control over the cutting of each fiber, enhancing customization and precision in the lay-up process.
• Comprehensive Model Visualization: Offers powerful viewing capabilities of the complete final part model, with options for selective, layer-by-layer display to facilitate detailed analysis.
• Ply Measurement Tools: Enables measurement of laid-up plies, including ply thickness, fiber angles, and distances between ribbons, ensuring adherence to design specifications.
• NC Program Analysis:
  • Displays ply paths immediately upon loading the NC program.
  • Decodes G-code and vendor macros, including variables and structured programming for controllers like Siemens840D, Heidenhain, and Fanuc.
  • Automatically detects program errors such as ISO syntax issues and out-of-range motions.
  • Provides an interactive link between the 3D window, program, and information window.
  • Includes a code editor for direct corrections.
  • Displays real NC parameters, including variables and machine status.
• Material Lay-Up Simulation Capabilities:
  • Computes lay-up processes in real-time with precision.
  • Detects potential collisions and material lay-up issues.
  • Allows smooth navigation, rotation, and zooming during simulations.
  • Handles unlimited file sizes.
  • Lists lay-up and collision issues, including unstretched fibers, steering problems, and lack of contact between rough stock and material.
  • Utilizes simulation data to facilitate comprehensive program corrections.
• Results Analysis Tools:
  • Provides dedicated tools for monitoring the lay-up process, such as measurements of laid-up fiber length, layer thickness, ribbon intersection angles, and distances between fibers.
  • Enables creation of dynamic 3D sections of the results for in-depth analysis.
  • Allows export of simulation results, including 3D envelopes and paths, to the design office for further evaluation.
• Enhanced User Experience:
  • Features an ergonomic interface that integrates seamlessly with existing CAM implementations.
  • Supports universal machine technology, accommodating an unlimited number of axes, including robots and complex NC machines.
  • Interfaces with most commercial CAD/CAM software, notably CATIA, NX, Pro/ENGINEER, MasterCAM, Edgecam, and TopSolid CAM.