Development of Laser Assisted Manufacturing Processes for Spaceflight Applications

Completed TRL 5 (started at 4, targeting 5)

Description

Key challenges exist in obtaining high fidelity information from terrestrial applications of LAMP and applying them to in-space applications. Studies focusing on testing LAMP in vacuum and in extreme temperatures, along with studies on computational analysis of LAMP behavior in a microgravity environment, must be reviewed. This, along with a study of existing potential OSAM applications for laser welding and cutting, will define a path forward for the development and use of LAMP for OSAM. This work will compile the prior works of industry, academia and government to determine the best plan of action for higher efficiency construction of structures in space. The next step after this work will be to develop an autonomous LAMP system which can be tested in a high fidelity space-like environment such as a parabolic flight.

Benefits

For On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (OSAM) there is a knowledge and capability gap for joining and cutting technologies. Laser Assisted Manufacturing Processes (LAMP) are well suited for the space environment and have improved drastically over the past decade in terrestrial environments. A study of existing LAMP capabilities and direct OSAM applications is necessary to bridge the gap between terrestrial use of LAMP and the future use of LAMP for OSAM applications.

Details

Technology area	Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing > Manufacturing
Program	Center Innovation Fund: MSFC CIF (MSFC CIF)
Lead organization	Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

William C Evans — william.c.evans-1@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

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