U.S. investment research "Spider manufacturing instrument" can be realized in space 3D printing large spacecraft architecture, for example: a large antenna, solar panels, etc. Space Telescope

Spider manufacture instrument to ensure spacecraft systems in a compact and durable embryonic state launched , once deployed in space to start using automated assembly technology will form a large space structure

According to the British Daily Mail reported that NASA investment "space manufacturing facility " will manufacture large size 3D printing spacecraft components, the future is expected in space through 3D printer to create a football field -sized antennas and telescopes.

This multi- arm manufacturing plant will use 3D printers and robotic devices construction of large space structures, such as : antennas and solar panels , these huge mechanical devices is difficult to be sent from Earth to space .

The 3D manufacturing plant was named " Spider manufacture instrument (SpiderFab)", will be launched in 2020 , Washington, TUI technology company signed a contract of $ 500,000 is responsible for the development of the device.

Spider manufacture instrument using 3D printing and robotics ensure that the construction and assembly of large space systems, such as : antenna , solar panels , sensors mast track shrouds . Currently, large spacecraft components are constructed on the ground is completed , the design of the folding shield the rocket after deployment in space is expanded.

However, this method has a high cost , and the construction of the protective member is limited by the size of the volume of the housing. TUI technology company chief scientist Rob - Hoyt (Rob Hoyt) Dr. said: "Spider manufacture instrument can produce vital components as compact and durable device , for example: fiber spools or polymer block , so it can be placed in smaller , lower-cost launch vehicle . "

Once launched into space , spider instrument manufacturing machinery manufacturing system producing the material suitable for large structures in space environment . It is capable of producing large antennas and arrays, are currently tens to hundreds of times the device , thus providing suitable for high -power , high -bandwidth , high resolution, high sensitivity to a variety of space missions .

Space manufacturing facility will significantly reduce the risk of equipment rocket subtle resistance, earlier this year , after the completion of the technical feasibility of the researchers tested , NASA then investment in this project . In the second stage , TUI will develop and demonstrate how to ensure manufacturing of high-performance support structure , such as : mirrors and antenna.

At the same time , with NASA's Small Business Innovation Research Centre TUI company (SBIR) contract , to develop a "Trusselator" device that will ensure the space truss structure constructed of large solar panels.

Dr. Hoyt said : "Trusselator is the first key to the implementation of spiders manufacture instrument building , once we demonstrate the successful operation of its resistance, and soon we will be able to build football field -sized antennas and telescopes help find Earth-like exoplanets confirmed evidence of alien presence . "