Messen und Veranstaltungen

With the help of shape-memory polymers. They enable the creation of lightweight and functional components. At Formnext, a demonstrator will be presented that showcases a hinge developed as part of the ProFIT Berlin-Brandenburg project for active deployment mechanisms—such as for unfolding solar panels or antennas after launch.

To achieve this, the Fraunhofer IAP specifically adapted the polymer to the requirements of spaceflight. Compared to conventional metal hinges, this reduces weight by about 93 percent. This weight savings can contribute to lower launch costs and a more efficient satellite design.

Additive manufacturing also enables a high degree of design freedom and the rapid production of custom components within a single day. Fewer mechanical components simplify the design and enable temperature-controlled movement and deployment functions.

The demonstrator shows how advanced polymer materials and additive manufacturing can open up new avenues for lightweight, reliable, and rapidly manufacturable satellite deployment technologies.