Description
Objective: The objective of this activity is to evaluate and test techniques of directly printing of strain and thermo-couples ontospacecraft parts as needed for payload equipment and propulsion hardware but not limited to.
Targeted Improvements: The eliminationof the manual installation of sensors with its associated time reduction (about 20%). Higher reliability.
Description:
Today the installation of sensors is undertaken by equipment manufacturers and by the satellite prime. Strain gauges and thermo couples constitute the majority of installed sensors. Several hundred sensors are typically needed and in particular strain gauges, heaters and thermo-couples can be difficult to install on propulsion elements.
The manual process today typically can require several weeks of costly integration time at payload level. Significant time saving could be achieved if the installation of sensors is stream-lined usingdirect 3D printing techniques. Hence, this activity aims to build on existing functional printing techniques developed for the aerospace industry including screen printing, inkjet printing, aerosol jet printing etc. and to evaluate its application for spacecraftparts such as RF equipment and propulsion elements. Both, applications for commercial satellites and small nano-sats shall be evaluated. Strain and thermo-couple sensors Engineering model , corresponding to TRL 5 shall be designed, developed and manufactured. Tests shall be conducted to validate the expected performance improvements and demonstrate the developed concepts.
Procurement Policy: C(2) = A relevant participation (in terms of quality and quantity) of non-primes (incl. SMEs) is required. For additional information please go to EMITS news "Industrial Policy measures for non-primes, SMEs and RD entities in ESA programmes".
Tender Specifics