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23 Apr 2008  -  France

Integrated offer dedicated to the processing of fabrics

© Lectra

Lectra, a specialist in software, CAD/CAM equipment and related services dedicated to the fashion, automotive, aeronautical, marine and furniture markets, has presented during the JEC Show in Paris, France during April 1-3, 2008 its complete and integrated suite of solutions dedicated to the manufacture of composite components for multiple industries -  including the DesignConcept 3D conception tool for creation of complex models, feasibility analysis, flattening from 3D to 2D, and cost estimation as well as the VectorTechTexFX cutting system for single and multiple ply cutting.

A complete and integrated offer dedicated to the processing of composite materials.
Today, all composite manufacturers have one thing in common, namely their need to produce a wide range of products with a very high level of precision. Ever-tighter shipment deadlines and costs control are major strategic challenges. These companies are under constant pressure to minimize material waste and reduce errors. Whether they make Formula 1 cars, wind turbine blades, boat hulls or aircraft components, they have their own specific needs and demand totally dedicated solutions.

All these challenges dictate that these businesses use the most innovative tools and secure processes to achieve success. By offering a truly and complete integrated range of solutions from the creation of 3D models through to cutting, Lectra is the only CAD/CAM supplier that can offer the composite manufacturers flexibility, accuracy, control and success in their global process. Using a wide scope of proven technologies, Lectra ensures global management of product development through a complete set of applications associated with a value-added service offering.

“The high global demand for composite materials and expanding end user applications are driving an unprecedented era in the industry that dictate that all manufacturers carefully review their processes to remain competitive,” said Roy Shurling, Director for Lectra’s Worldwide Automotive and Transportation Markets. “By proposing a complete offer from product design through manufacturing that results from our strong commitment to innovation, Lectra’s high performance solutions for the conception, industrialization and cutting of composite materials ensure that our clients are well positioned to meet the needs of this demanding environment.”

Lectra cutting solutions
At the show Lectra has presented its newest VectorTechTex which is ideally suited to manufactures needing to process a variety of materials from pre-preg carbons, multiple layer cutting of dry materials like fibreglass and even the capability to cut some core materials such as phenolic honeycomb.

The entire Lectra range of dedicated cutting solutions for composite materials brings the most advanced response to the production needs of manufacturers working with sophisticated materials. Lectra’s range incorporates a suite of cutting solutions for single ply low volume pre-preg materials to high volume multilayer cutting of aramid materials such as fiberglass, Kevlar, Spectra and dry carbon. Lectra is the only company that can supply cutting solutions based on drag knife, wheel, laser and oscillating knife technology to perfectly meet the challenges of its clients.

Today, cutting precision and traceability are essential for companies processing industrial fabrics and Lectra solutions are perfectly adapted to these constraints. They are user friendly, provide process security, and have integrated features to ensure maximum performance and production availability.

High performance 3D/2D conception software
Lectra has also presented DesignConcept TechTex, its 3D/2D conception and industrialization solution dedicated to advanced materials. Based on Lectra’s solid experience in industrial manufacturing solutions, this application provides powerful tools to facilitate the analysis of product feasibility, finished product quality, and cost, thus enabling companies to make key decisions in the product development phase and thereby reduce time to market and minimize costs.

About Lectra
Lectra is one of the world leaders in software, CAD/CAM equipment and related services dedicated to largescale users of textiles, leather and industrial fabrics. Lectra addresses a broad array of major global markets, including fashion (apparel, accessories, footwear), automotive, aeronautical and furniture. Lectra serves 20,000 customers in more than 100 countries with 1550 employees and $297 million in 2007 revenues. The company is listed on Euronext Paris.

Source : Lectra