The ancient art of origami could have a future inspace.
The program will use technology designed byStilfold, a Swedish startup thats pioneered a manufacturing process called industrial origami.
The technique uses robotic arms to fold sheets of steel over curves to form complex and lightweight shapes.
Stilfoldpreviously used the approach to buildan electric scooter.
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In addition, the method doesnt require any stamping or welding.
Stilfold co-founder Jonas Nyvang envisions unfolding vehicles and food storage facilities in outer space.
You cant bring much to space, because it takes up limited room, he told TNW.
NASAhas alsoexperimented with techniques inspired by origami, but these projects have focused on big structures.
Theres great potential for smaller structures as well and thats what we want to explore first, said Nyvang.
Next to this, there are various ESA programs that could be attractive for SMEs, e.g.
ESA Business utility Kick-Starters that provide funding for companies developingspace-basedapplications.
ESA has a patent portfolio with technologies which may be useful in another context.
Finally, ESAs SME office also has various ways of supporting startups too, e.g.
getting training to apply to regular ESA contracts.
Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he e(show all)Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he enjoys playing chess (badly) and the guitar (even worse).
