Tunable, Resettable, Printable, Impact Energy Absorbing Matrix

Landing on a largely unknown planetary surface imposes risks to the structure of the lander. This effort seeks to reduce the risk of energy absorption in two ways. Primarily it provides a method of fully characterizing an energy absorbing material through analysis verified by testing. Secondly, since energy absorbing elements will likely need to be constrained geometrically (such as within a cartridge enclosure), this effort would provide the basis for a CAD model that could easily be changed late in the design process without having to change the supporting structure. The ability to custom 3D print energy absorbing materials/substructure would greatly support flexibility in future lander designs. This effort will begin with 2D and 3D printed plastic prototypes, followed by development of a 3D printed titanium prototype. Test results for the titanium prototypes are due by the end of the FY.

If successful, this technology would have opened up new design possibilities and landing options. Testing revealed that the idea could not compete mass-wise with conventional approaches.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.