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A new multi-layer co-extruded in-color Ionomer film is developed to provide an alternative decoration process to replace paint on Dodge Neon Fascias. The Ionomer film provides a high-gloss “class-A” surface in both non-metallic and metallic colors that match the car body paint finish. Using the Ionomer film to decorate fascias reduces cost; eliminates VOCs; increases manufacturing flexibility and improves performance (weatherability and durability). The molding process consists of thermoforming a film blank and injection molding Polypropylene or TPO behind the film. The paper will include the background, the benefits, the technology development objectives, the film materials development, tooling optimization, film fascia processing (co-extrusion; thermoforming and injection molding) and validation testing of the film.

This paper reports on the development and demonstration of a unique distributed Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) architecture developed for the PowerSphere concept. The PowerSphere PMAD concept was conceived as a solution for providing adequate electric power from solar cells to power a Micro-satellite or Nano-satellite. The PMAD architectural concept developed for the PowerSphere accommodates its arbitrary orientation by unique features. The architecture has all of the individual power sources and storage devices connected in parallel to a regulated spacecraft power bus. This parallel connection is accomplished via a microelectronic dc-dc converter for each power or storage device. This direct connection eliminates the need for series connections of these devices to produce sufficient voltage to supply the bus.