Innovative Space Carrier Inc (ISC), Japan, has partnered with WAAM3D, UK; Cranfield University, UK; and Aichi Sangyo Co Ltd, Japan, to accelerate the development of propellant tanks for space transportation systems. The collaboration will leverage Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology to develop components and structures.
“Although we are a venture company founded in May 2022, we have collaborated with over forty companies, organizations, and educational institutions in Japan,” stated Kojiro Hatada, ISC CEO. “In April this year, we partnered with Ursa Major Technologies, a US rocket engine development company, and established a local subsidiary. Now, we are collaborating with global experts in 3D printing. Our goal is ‘Wakon Yosai’ – to humbly learn from partners with advanced knowledge both domestically and internationally, reflect these strengths in Japan, rapidly enhance development speed, and establish space transportation technologies that can compete globally, contributing to the growth of Japan’s space industry.”
ISC aims to develop a reusable space transport vehicle within five years. To achieve this, it intends to improve development efficiency by using an agile development approach instead of the traditional waterfall model. In December last year, ISC conducted its first test and undertook what it called Japan’s first ‘tripropellant’ combustion test, confirming the effectiveness of its proprietary P4SD (Platform for Space Development) research and development platform.
Additive Manufacturing machines are crucial for achieving agile development. By shortening the manufacturing period, ISC will be able to quickly repeat the processes of manufacturing, testing, and optimizing, thereby enhancing development speed. Additionally, AM machines offer significant advantages in management and assembly by enabling integrated manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate part production and assembly. The high degree of freedom in shaping allows for optimal designs, improving functionality while reducing weight.
Image – From left to right: Hiro Inoue, Aichi Sangyo President; Kojiro Hatada, CEO of ISC; and Filomeno Martina, CEO of WAAM3D. Courtesy of: Innovative Space Carrier.
For more information:
Aichi Sangyo Co Ltd.
www.aichi-sangyo.co.jp
Cranfield University
www.cranfield.ac.uk
Innovative Space Carrier Inc
https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/
WAAM3D
www.waam3d.com
