Biomimetic Zero CTE Lightweight Optical Structures

This NASA SBIR Phase I proposal presents an unprecedented method to make zero CTE lightweight optical structures such as optics mounting structures, brackets, optical benches, and metering structures. With our successful history in a variety of AM processing for TPMS structures, this proposal has a great potential to succeed. A proof-of-concept demonstration will be carried out at the end of Phase 1. Prototypes will be delivered at the end of Phase II.

In addition to NASA’s Large Ultraviolet Optical Infrared Surveyor (LUVOIR), Infrared/Optical/Ultraviolet (IR/O/UV) Space Telescope and the Origins Space Telescope (OST), the proposed AM & SM processing approach can also be used in other applications, such as rocket, CubeSat, aircraft, and satellite manufacturing. PolarOnyx will develop a series of products to meet various requirements for NASA/military deployments. Some commercial markets are: • 3D printing uses various technologies to build products for all kinds of applications from foods, toys to rockets and cars. The global 3D printing market is projected to reach $49 Billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 21.8%. North America was the highest contributor to the global market, and is estimated to reach $16.8 Billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 20.8% during the forecast period. • Medical devices and biomedical instrumentation. Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm, conducted a competitive analysis and presented that the global medical device industry has experienced high growth during the last five years and is expected to continue its growth momentum, reaching approximately $302 billion with a CAGR of 6.1% over the next five years.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.