New-Tech Europe | March 2016 | Digital edition

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APC HiRel has worked with British technology company QinetiQ to supply power supply modules for the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter launched. The Lander, a test bed for technologies being used in future space programmes, features VPT SV Series hybrid isolated power supplies and filters, specified for their high reliability and ability to withstand the mission’s radiation levels and harsh operating environment. VPT Dc-Dc power supplies were supplied for the UHF transceiver for the Lander and will also be fitted to the Rover for the 2018 mission. It was critical that both power supplies and filters met Class K, the top level of screening and test for hybrids, frequently used for space missions to ensure the very highest level of reliability. Class K typically requires parts to be “burned in” for up to 160 hours at elevated temperatures, exposure to shock and vibration tests, and require pre-cap inspections. Most importantly under the DLA (Defence Logistics Agency) approved radiation plan, MIL PRF 38534 Appendix G, characterization and testing is performed at the critical semiconductor component piece-part level (radiation lot acceptance testing) from traceable semiconductor lots. automotive brands. The digitally-driven Aerosol Jet based 3DP process provides full design flexibility, with quick iteration and minimum lead-time for last-minute changes. After successfully implementing Aerosol Jet in prototype environments, LITE-ON expanded its usage and has now deployed multiple production machines in Guangzhou, China, operating 24×7 printing conformal electronics onto millions of consumer devices. Since the 3DP process requires no plating or special resins, logistics are simplified and production costs are lowered. The open architecture of the Aerosol Jet hardware allows configurations to be optimized for specific production needs. The implementation at LITE-ON leverages a series of Aerosol Jet print modules spread across multiple 5-axis motion

platforms, configured to handle common smartphone and tablet form factors. Each machine is able to print a wide range of common electronics materials, at a rate of millions of units per year, enabling next generation applications in consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and smart IoT devices. Click herefor video. “LITE-ON has been an incredible strategic customer for Optomec. Their dedication and commitment was critical to proving the viability of Aerosol Jet technology in a real world 24/7 production setting,” said Mr. Dave Ramahi, Optomec President and CEO. “With its unique and in-depth process knowledge in Aerosol Jet printing, Optomec is pleased to recognize LITE-ON as a “Center of Excellence” for High Volume Production of 3D Printed Electronics.”

APC provides power for ExoMars launch

This marks a fresh alternative from traditional suppliers where radiation testing has to be carried out after assembly. VPT SV Series power supply modules are one of the first to supply product with DLA radiation component testing, making them more cost and time efficient. The ExoMars programme is a collaboration between the European

and Russian Space Agencies. The Orbiter was launched this morning from Kazakhstan on a seven-month mission to monitor temperatures and trace gases on the red planet. One of its primary goals is to discover the existence and sources of methane on the planet, providing further information about whether life has ever existed on Mars. The Orbiter measures 3.5m by 2m by 2m and has 17.5m of solar arrays. The launch mass for the Proton-M/ Breeze-M launch vehicle totals 4332kg (including fuel and the Schiaparelli launch vehicle). A second Rover mission will follow in 2018, also using VPT SV Series Dc-Dc power supply modules.

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