The main challenge of the Printed Structural Electronics (SIPRES) initiative will be to develop, manufacture and validate the use of flexible, printed and hybrid electronics with different prototypes that are capable of operating correctly in the extreme temperature, vacuum and radiation conditions required by space exploration and research missions.
“This project is innovative because it marks the first time that ESA will experiment with the application of electronic systems printed on flexible materials for use in space,” explains Borja Pozo, coordinator of the Space Sector at Tekniker.
“The weight of the devices and components sent into space is a key and determining factor for the success of space missions. This technology, thanks to its reduced material usage and weight, can lower the costs of future missions and make them more sustainable. It opens the door to integrating electronic capabilities more easily into multiple components and surfaces, regardless of their shape,” the expert adds.
Prototype Development:
Tekniker will contribute its knowledge and experience in electronics, manufacturing, surface chemistry and coating technologies throughout the prototype development process, from the conception phase to a technological development closer to its introduction into the space sector.
The process will also involve the engineering firms ALTER TECHNOLOGY and CT Ingenieros - Cadtech and will include the testing and validation of different polymeric materials, conductive inks and adhesives and manufacturing processes to determine their compatibility with the required environmental conditions and space electronic components.
The printing of the electronic devices and assemblies will take place in Tekniker's 3D printing laboratory.
Once developed, tested and validated, the first technology demonstrators could be deployed with nanosatellite platforms commonly used for research in low Earth orbit (LEO) or in the verification of the International Space Station (ISS) test campaign.
In parallel, based on the roadmap established by the ESA, the application of the final prototypes for future missions to the Moon and Mars could be considered.
“Among the possible solutions that can be developed with this technology are the integration of wind and humidity sensors for Martian rovers; radiation, temperature and photodetector sensors for the Moon; force sensors for spacecraft mechanisms, or solar and thermal energy systems for small low-orbit satellites,” adds the Tekniker expert.
These solutions also open up possibilities for online telemetry monitoring, that is, for the remote monitoring and transmission of real-time data.
The SIPRES initiative, which will begin this October and last for two years, is funded by the ESA under its Technology Development Programme (TDE).
