This paper presents a space mission enablement and cost reduction technology: in-space 3D printing. Using in-space 3D printing, spacecraft can be lighter, require less launch volume and be designed solely for orbital operations. The proposed technology, which supports various thermoplastics and prospectively metals, is presented in detail. Key subsystems such as the energy collection system, the melting unit, and the printing unit are explained.
Design for an in-space 3D printer
Sensors and Systems for Space Applications IX ; 2016 ; Baltimore,Maryland,United States
Proc. SPIE ; 9838
13.05.2016
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
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