Microfabrication of Stirling Heat Engine Regenerators

This NASA SBIR Phase I proposal presents an unprecedented laser nano additive manufacturing system for making Stirling heat engine regenerators, by using a pulsed fiber laser and nano-technology. It is the enabling technology for manufacturing fine structures with micron precision. With our successful history in AM and SM processing, this proposal has a great potential to succeed. A proof of concept demonstration will be carried out and samples will be delivered at the end of Phase 1.Prototypes in compliant with the Stirling heat engine system requirement will be delivered at the end of Phase II.

In addition to NASA’s heat engine components manufacturing, the proposed pulsed laser AM process can also be used in other applications, such as space vehicle, aircraft, and satellite manufacturing. PolarOnyx will develop a series of products to meet various requirements for NASA deployments.

3D printing uses various technologies for building the products for all kinds of applications from foods, toys to rockets and cars. The global market for 3D Printing is projected to reach US$44 billion by the year 2025, driven by the advent of newer technologies, approaches, and applications.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.