QuickPro, a collaboration project funded by the EU, focuses on optimizing milling processes for components with complex geometries and hard-to-machine materials (e.g. TiAl6V4).

The emphasis is on the accelerated identification and implementation of suitable tool and coating technologies, as well as the associated process strategies.

This enables CP Tech to meet customer demands for complex components in a more timely and cost-effective manner.

Project duration: September 1, 2011 – December 31, 2013

Gamma HSC introduces a groundbreaking technology through the use of a parabolic milling cutter, which is being developed in this project together with cooperation partners and will be validated for the first time in industrial practice.

This enables the creation of superior component surface properties while significantly reducing manufacturing times, making the process far more cost-effective.
Process efficiency is dramatically enhanced.
The approach is based on a geometry-adaptive tool technology (barrel cutter) for simultaneous 5-axis high-speed milling.

Project duration: May 1, 2011 – April 30, 2013

The Kobold project was funded under the EU-MANUNET program in collaboration with European partners.

By integrating various measurement solutions into an existing milling machine, errors and deviations in the machining process are detected, allowing for the derivation of optimized milling paths and parameters. Using the Kobold strategy, it becomes possible to produce components with higher precision, reduced waste, and smaller batch sizes.

Project duration: May 1, 2012 – April 30, 2015

In the CFK-Mikro collaboration project, an innovative micro-sensor concept was developed to detect structural overload in CFRP components. This concept was prototypically manufactured, tested, and validated for functionality on realistic demonstrator components. The integration of this sensor system into unidirectional, continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic CFRP tapes enables energy- and resource-efficient, automated sensor integration into thermoplastic CFRP components.

Project duration: August 1, 2012 – July 31, 2014

In the TopoLight collaboration project, the additive manufacturing process of a wheel carrier made from a quenched steel was thoroughly investigated using the SLM (Selective Laser Melting) method. The focus was on the functional optimization of the component through a load-path-oriented topology optimization, as well as the integration of lattice structures arranged accordingly, leading to significant resource and weight savings. Through the validation of a prototype wheel carrier via a durability cycle on the test bench, CP Tech demonstrated the fundamental suitability of this manufacturing process for structural components in the chassis sector.

Project duration: October 1, 2015 – September 30, 2017

As part of the EffHy research project, CP Tech, in collaboration with the Institute of Lightweight Design in Automotive Engineering (LiA) at the University of Paderborn, developed a new manufacturing process based on prepreg pressing. Using a partially temperature-controlled tool in the thickness direction, large-area hybrid components can be produced without the need for additional joining operations. Typically induced thermal residual stresses are reduced through the application of this new manufacturing process. The resulting increased load-bearing capacity of the metal-CFRP hybrid structures enhances the utilization of the available lightweight potential.
CP Tech demonstrated the performance of hybrid components produced in this way through endurance tests on the test bench. A realistic demonstrator was a production-ready longitudinal control arm from the chassis sector.

Project duration: July 1, 2017 – December 31, 2019

The digital networking of production is shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In the FixTronic research project, we, together with our partners from research and industry, developed a mechatronic clamping system with active vibration damping to enhance dynamic process stability during milling operations.
This highly flexible, networked, and adaptive production tool provides the ideal foundation for addressing the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0.

Project duration: July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2018

In real multi-step manufacturing processes, deviations in the component geometry compared to the CAD model always occur between individual production steps. However, the planning and execution of each machining step are based on the geometry of the original CAD model. As a result, scrap or suboptimal cycle times arise because deviations are not compensated for, and they can accumulate with the number of processing steps. In the AdaptCAD project, a methodology was developed to capture these deviations during individual machining steps by continuously recording position and process data from the machine tool axes, enabling the adaptation of the 3D CAD model for subsequent machining steps.

Project duration: July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2021

In the project, a compliant tool holder was developed in collaboration with partners, based on an innovative tool concept for surface finishing - a carbide tool with a large cutting edge radius. This enables machine-integrated and automated surface finishing of complex 3D components through a force-based feed between the tool and the workpiece. This pressing process flattens roughness peaks and hardens the edge zone. The resulting surface properties can be precisely adjusted depending on the generated force.

Project duration: December 1, 2018 – November 30, 2020

The goal of the eMobil-Module network project was to develop competitive ideas and modular system solutions for electromobility in collaboration with network partners — strengthening the global competitiveness of the regional automotive supply chain, particularly within the electrical engineering sector.
The shift toward electric powertrains requires a fundamental reorientation, making interdisciplinary collaboration within corporate networks essential for the development of holistic system solutions. At the same time, it is crucial to reinforce each partner’s individual core competencies.
By pooling expertise within the network, the ability to handle larger and more complex projects as a corporate alliance was significantly enhanced.

Project duration: 2009 – 2012

eFaPro is a cooperative research project that emerged from the eMobil-Module network initiative. Its objective was to develop a modular chassis system with a scalable production setup for electric vehicles in the micro and small car segments.
The focus was on achieving simple and cost-effective manufacturability of different variants within the defined target corridors for key chassis parameters (such as track width, wheelbase, etc.).

Project duration: January 1, 2010 – October 31, 2011

As part of the eMoSys joint project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, CP Tech, in collaboration with Streetscooter GmbH and the Institute for Automotive Engineering (ika) at RWTH Aachen University, developed and built a mobile test platform for modular testing of drivetrain and chassis systems in electric vehicles — a key enabler for future e-mobility solutions.

Through this project, CP Tech further expanded its expertise in chassis and complete vehicle systems within the field of electric mobility.

Project duration: July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2014

In the StrInnoCar research project, a new concept was developed in collaboration with project partners to drive innovation in vehicle development and production, specifically tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Based on this concept, a practical action guideline was created to help SMEs bring new powertrain technologies and newly developed vehicles to production readiness — with manageable investment costs and through strong collaboration within SME networks.

Project duration: January 1, 2013 – March 31, 2014

In the ProSerie project, CP Tech, together with seven industry partners and three academic institutes, addressed the question:
How can existing approaches to modularity, scalability, and universality in tooling and fixture solutions be leveraged to industrialize and make low-volume vehicle production — between 1,000 and 20,000 units per year — more competitive?

To answer this, the project explored the targeted use of intelligent tooling and fixture concepts capable of adapting to dynamic production environments.
A special focus was placed on developing market-ready solutions, with commercialization potential validated through the construction of prototypes and demonstrators.
This included not only the selection of suitable technologies but also the development of tailored production strategies for various ramp-up and volume scenarios.

Project duration: November 1, 2012 – April 30, 2015

As part of the Mas:Stab collaborative research project, CP Tech worked alongside various institutes of RWTH Aachen, FEV, and StreetScooter GmbH to explore a modular and scalable powertrain system for the next generation of electric vehicles.
The project focused in particular on the dynamic control requirements of a dual-motor, wheel-hub drive prototype and developed torque vectoring strategies to optimize vehicle dynamics.

In alignment with these requirements, CP Tech analyzed and optimized the chassis system for electric vehicles with individual wheel drives. To demonstrate feasibility, the chassis of the initial prototype vehicle was adapted accordingly and tested in real-world conditions.

Project duration: January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2015

With the Supershaft project, CP Tech took its first steps toward developing an entirely new generation of low-friction drive shafts based on high-angle tripode joints.
A novel joint concept featuring a friction-optimized tripode track design for high articulation angles was developed, engineered in detail, and realized in the form of an initial demonstrator.

Project duration: November 1, 2015 – December 31, 2017

In electric vehicles, many components of conventional drivetrains are no longer required. This opens up valuable packaging space that can be repurposed—particularly for battery integration. To take advantage of this opportunity, an innovative rear axle concept was developed: the Multi-Link Torsion Axle (MLTA).

The concept is based on repositioning space-intensive axle components behind the wheel center. This creates a larger, uninterrupted, and geometrically optimized central area—ideal for housing the battery.

As part of the E-MLTA project, CP Tech and its partners explored, conceptualized, and prototyped this new approach. Novel kinematic axle mechanisms and components were developed and tested both on the test bench and in a demonstrator vehicle. Compared to a reference vehicle equipped with a conventional torsion beam axle, the demonstrator was positively evaluated by an OEM partner as being suitable for industrial development and implementation.

Project duration: October 1, 2018 – December 31, 2021