Events and fairs

Lightweight and functional components for space applications made from shape-memory polymers. At the Space Tech Expo, Fraunhofer IAP presents a demonstrator featuring a hinge developed as part of the ProFIT Berlin-Brandenburg project for active deployment mechanisms, such as those used to unfold solar panels or antennas after launch.

The polymer, which has been specifically adapted for space applications, enables a weight reduction of approximately 93 percent compared to conventional metal hinges. Additive manufacturing also offers a high degree of design freedom and enables the rapid production of custom components within a single day. Temperature-controlled motion and release functions simplify the design and open up new possibilities for lightweight and reliable satellite components.