An additive manufacturing module for the ISS and beyond!!!
By Nick Bishop 12/13/2022
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Example Part Creation
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Back up slides
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Materials
Due to the lack of pressure, metals evaporate in space. Deionization at the tip of the nozzle is not likely feasible to due phase change and duration of cooling due to the slowed.
Metals must be pre powder-ized or deionized within the module before mixing through the nozzle.
Storage of material depends on the method of powderization. Wire fed deionization would allow standardization of wire for all space welding. Using powder would require additional material that could act as a contaminate.
Ceramics or coated metals must be utilized on all equipment to prevent incidental contact with powder
Unique substrates such as Mercury (Hg) could be utilized in space applications; however, materials must be compatible with 7DoF
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Operations
Con ops would be generally straight forward for making parts and routine maintenance.
Most operation should be possible with the robot arms to limit EVAs and reduce risk to operators
Larger assemblies can be built directly from printed parts via the robotic arms. Parts could be pulled directly from the growing chamber and welded to previous parts