← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)
The ability to manufacture small to large batch productions on demand in low gravity environments is imperative for the expansion of low orbit manufacturing and lunar colonization. Injection molding is one of the most common manufacturing processes and is used to make large and small components. It is also used for developing both polymer and metal composites. Two benefits of injection molding systems are that they are self-contained and do not require gravity to work. The Rapidly Configurable Mold and Cavity System (RCMCS) differs from current injection molding processes by utilizing Muse Engine’s patent pending rapidly configurable, reusable mold and cavity system. The RCMCS saves both tooling costs and time which reduces the threshold to get a product manufactured and can essentially turn traditional injection molding into an additive manufacturing process. The RCMCS consists of two reconfigurable cavities that are integrated and locked into a specialized mold used during a traditional injection molding process. Each plate consists of reconfiguring pins and a locking system. The core of the RCMCS lies in the technical development of the “pin art” children’s toy into an industry tool that is highly reconfigurable and can be used to translate computer aided design (CAD) parts to a format ready for the manufacturing line in a matter of minutes. Muse Engine is proposing the development of a manually configurable RCMCS and its integration into existing injection molding systems. This system will demonstrate both the feasibility and commercialization of the proposed RCMCS.
The RCMCS offers flexible, rapid manufacturing of cast or injection molding components in low-gravity environments. Topic FA15/Z4.07: Advanced Materials and Manufacturing for In-Space Operations, is looking to identify technologies for the planned and sustained exploration of the Moon, and eventually Mars.
Manufacturing represents a $5.1T market that spans all related verticals in the United States. Global contract manufacturing generates $6B annually and, by 2025, rapid prototyping services are estimated to be nearly a $1B market. The consumer, construction, aerospace, automotive, defense industries represent a $2B U.S. and $20B global market opportunity.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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.
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.