Marotta Controls announced that its custom fin Control Actuation System (CAS) design project for Lockheed Martin has reached completion having achieved full component-level qualification to more than 20 military standards. The qualification process required Marotta to build more than 20 systems to satisfy all required tests, including multiple successful all-up to ground level tests. The CAS is now transitioning from development into high volume production and is positioned to support throughout the life of the program.

This is Marotta's first CAS to reach both the full component qualification and in-production milestones, solidifying the company's position as a choice CAS industry supplier committed to meeting customer design and manufacturing requirements. In fact, the company expanded its manufacturing capabilities—facility infrastructure, power resource, test tools, etc.—to support Lockheed Martin's fulfillment needs and ramp rates entirely in-house.

An Innovative CAS

The electromechanical assembly is a technical achievement that differs from commonly available industry options. The design integrates the actuator with a single electrical board responsible for driving both motors for the two actuator axes. This particular design approach can prove difficult with respect to proper component separation and power isolation. Incorrect configuration of these elements can lead to uncontrolled, high levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can ultimately damage the system when in use.

"We're committed to doing everything within our means to help our customers realise their visions, no matter how complex or challenging," said Steve Fox, Vice President, Aerospace and Tactical Systems, Marotta Controls. "This is a sophisticated CAS designed to cost from the start. Every technical decision we made deliberately targeted Lockheed Martin's power, performance, and lightweight specifications within the desired price range. The end product satisfies those requirements while also being smaller and considerably easier to install than competitive solutions."

Manufacturing & Testing Resource Expansion

As noted above, Marotta recently invested in several production-related elements to ensure timely product delivery. For example, the company expanded its facility by an additional 1,100 square feet to accommodate additional equipment racks and assembly stations. Also related is Marotta's previously announced investment in state-of-the art test equipment and new testing hubs to support the advanced vibration and environmental qualification requirements—to name a few.