Impact on design when introducing additive manufacturing in space applications

Abstract

This paper studied how the introduction of additive manufacturing (AM) in space applications impacts the design phases. Together with three manufacturers of space applications, the potential benefit as well as constraints are studied to identify design gaps. A literature survey is conducted to match the needs and following an analysis the impact on design practice is formulated. Results show the need to combine a wider design exploration capability, in combination with comparative modelling strategies.