In addition to our analysis of the four key technology trends, we identified and performed in-depth analysis on two emerging technologies in each of the four principal transport modalities. Emerging technologies refer to new, innovative technologies in the early stages of development or adoption, often representing advancements that could significantly impact industries, societies, or economies. Such technologies are usually characterized by their potential for rapid growth, their transformative capabilities and an ability to create new opportunities or disrupt existing systems. Emerging technologies are closely tied to technological trends. This is because trends often signal the direction in which technology is evolving and highlight areas where emerging innovations may soon have a significant impact.
In this report, we identified emerging technologies by analyzing ‘weak signals’ – that is, subtle indicators that reveal potential future directions in technological development. These signals were gathered from several key sources. We examined patent activity dynamics, in which trends in patent filings indicated areas of growing innovation and interest. Additionally, we reviewed statements and strategic plans from companies and organizations so as to uncover their priorities and technological focus areas. Political considerations, such as government policies, funding priorities and strategic documents, also provided valuable insights, reflecting public investment trends and societal priorities. Through this analysis, we gained an early perspective on potential technological directions, identifying relevant examples of emerging technologies that are poised to become significant trends. Our selection represents a list of very promising emerging technologies, but it cannot be an exhaustive list of all emerging technologies due to the space constraints of this report.
Land: solid-state batteries
Solid-state batteries (SSBs) represent a significant advancement in battery technology, offering several key benefits over traditional batteries. They are particularly relevant for both freight and passenger vehicles owing to their potential to enhance performance and safety. The core benefits of solid-state batteries include enhanced safety, higher energy density, longer lifespan and fast charging capability. However, solid-state batteries currently have several limitations, including challenges regarding commercial-scale production, complex and costly manufacturing processes, and maintaining the stability of solid electrolytes and their interface with electrodes.
Figure 5.1 shows the number of scientific publications and patents related to solid- state batteries published annually from 2010 to 2023. The data show a steady increase in the number of scientific publications over time, but patenting activity is more prevalent. Analysis of patents for solid-state batteries also reveals an increase, with the number of published patent families having grown from only 290 back in 2010 to over 2000 in 2023. However, compared to overall patenting activity in battery technologies, solid-state batteries have remained a niche research area, so far.
Technology at a glance
Toyota's patent (WO2011142150A1) outlines a solid-state battery featuring an ionic conductor with a spinel structure. The ion conductor has a structure wherein which it is easy for ions to move, thereby increasing ion conductivity, and a greater electrochemical stability than other structures on the market. The design aims to improve battery performance and stability by optimizing the conductor's composition and integration.
The use of a spinel structure ionic conductor, specifically tailored with lithium, magnesium, zinc and aluminum, can enhance the ionic conductivity and stability of a battery. By incorporating these materials into the cathode, anode, and solid electrolyte layers, the design addresses key challenges in solid-state battery development, such as improving energy density, safety, and longevity. If successfully implemented, this could lead to more efficient, durable, and commercially viable solid-state batteries.
Standardization has become increasingly important in all domains, especially within the automotive sector. I believe this is because of the growing role of autonomy and other emerging and disruptive technology (EDT) requiring standardized interfaces in order to harness their potential and assure safety, security, consistency and interoperability across different applications and systems.
The European Union's AI Act (Regulation 2024/1689) is a significant step toward creating a harmonized legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI) systems, while promoting innovation and maintaining high safety standards, transparency and fundamental rights. By adhering to standardized approaches, manufacturers and stakeholders can assure consistency and trustworthiness across various AI applications, which in turn supports a competitive and secure environment for AI deployment across different domains. The EU's innovative approach to regulations, whereby compliance with relevant harmonized standards
And how is a standard developed?
It involves a structured process in which key documents are created at different stages to guide manufacturers and other stakeholders in complying with regulatory requirements and gaining international acceptance. This process often begins with a Technical Report (TR) that provides early guidance, which is then refined into a Technical Specification (TS) or Publicly Available Specification (PAS), and finally, an International Standard (IS), once the technology is mature.
This approach allows for a flexible, minimum viable product (MVP) strategy for manufacturers, enabling the release of useful guidelines early on in the process to support stakeholders and regulatory compliance.
For standards to become harmonized within the European Union (EU), they must include legal requirements and be listed in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) to assure alignment with EU legislation. This is exemplified by the railway applications standard EN 50126-1:2017, which is a harmonized standard for EU Directive 2008/57/EC for railway interoperability.
Global engagement in EDT – including AI standards – promotes innovation, protects intellectual property (IP) and assures responsible AI development. Common standards simplify AI integration across markets, reducing barriers and encouraging adoption. They also help protect IP by providing clear technical guidelines, aiding in patenting and preventing disputes, and fostering investment in EDT, including AI.
Emphasizing transparency and ethics, standards build trust between users and regulators, facilitating acceptance while safeguarding privacy.
International collaboration aligns EDT (including AI) and governance approaches, eases cross-border operations and fosters a sharing of innovation that meets global needs. Understanding standards and standardization has a crucial role to play in the future across the transportation industry. Such an understanding ensures that systems and technologies operate together seamlessly, which is vital for safety and interoperability in environments where different nations and organizations collaborate, such as in international maritime operations, air traffic management and space exploration.
However, there is still a lack of funding and research dedicated to developing relevant harmonized standards, especially those relating to the EU AI Act. This is a challenge that needs to be addressed, if the safe, secure and ethical deployment of AI systems is to assured.
Land: platooning
Platooning represents a significant advancement in Land transportation technology, enabling multiple vehicles to travel closely together at high speed, controlled by automated driving systems and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. This technology involves forming a convoy of vehicles, typically trucks, led by a vehicle that is manually driven, with the vehicles following autonomously controlled so as to maintain a close distance and synchronize movement. The technological benefits of platooning include improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety and greater road capacity. However, platooning also faces several challenges and limitations, including the need for a reliable V2V communication system, regulatory and legal hurdles, and the requirement for consistent road infrastructure to support automated driving technologies.
Figure 5.2 indicates that scientific research on platooning has gained momentum over the past decade, especially from 2018 onward. This growth reflects a growing recognition of platooning as a viable and beneficial technology for the future of Land transportation. Continued research and development in this area are expected to further enhance the feasibility and implementation of platooning systems on a broader scale. Primary research topics in platooning have included advancements in V2V communication technologies, the development of robust control algorithms and the assessment of platooning's impact on traffic dynamics and fuel efficiency. Researchers are also exploring the integration of platooning into other intelligent transportation systems (ITS) to create more cohesive and efficient road networks.
Patent activities related to platooning have been increasing too, reflecting both a growing interest and investment in this technology. Major automotive and technology companies are actively filing patents for various aspects of platooning, including V2V communication protocols, control systems and safety mechanisms. Between 2014 and 2023, the number of published patent families per year increased from less than 200 to over 1,000. However, patent families have declined over recent years, after having peaked at almost 1,400 in 2020.
Technology at a glance
A recent development from DAF (US10948928B2) relates to a method for autonomously guiding motor vehicles in a platooning formation, using steering and headway controllers coupled with lateral and front distance control systems. It involves dual lane side detectors, which could be 2D or 3D laser scanners or integrated cameras in modified side mirrors, providing the image data needed to maintain vehicle alignment and proximity to the lead vehicle. Additionally, these systems are capable of complex tasks such as arbitrating between lateral distance, a pre-set forward look-ahead point and data from other sensors such as radar for comprehensive vehicle steering and navigation control.
Sea: smart ports
Ports are vital components of the global logistics network and have undergone a significant transformation driven by economic, socioeconomic, political and environmental factors. The need for Sustainability and Digitalization has led to the emergence of smart ports that align with Industry 4.0 innovations for long-term sustainability. A smart port is characterized by highly efficient, autonomous and technologically advanced operations, achieved through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Big Data, IoT and blockchain. These technologies enable automation, the optimization of logistics flow and enhanced efficiency. The definition of a smart port emphasizes the role of innovation and automation in boosting performance, including intelligent management of operations for maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies in smart ports aims to achieve port facility automation and autonomy, improve resource utilization and enhance overall port operations.
The scientific community's engagement with smart ports has also seen a noticeable uptick in research activity (Figure 5.3). Since 2016, there has been a marked increase in peer-reviewed journal articles focusing on various aspects of smart port technologies. This growing academic interest highlights a shift toward exploring and addressing the complex challenges and opportunities that smart ports present. Such research endeavors are often foundational, paving the way for practical applications and technological breakthroughs. The examination of the patent landscape reveals that patenting activity in the field of smart ports has picked up speed in recent years. The number of published patent families has increased from only 20 in 2016 to over 100 in 2023.
The smart port projects in Shanghai
As the demand for more efficient, sustainable, and safer sea transport grows, the move towards smart ports is becoming not just a trend but an imperative. The industry is witnessing a shift away from traditional port operations and toward a future where ports are not just transit points, but intelligent systems that can think, decide, and act autonomously, thus marking a new era in maritime technology and logistics.
Technology at a glance
The invention detailed in a patent application filed by Shanghai Tusen Weilai Artificial Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd. (US20200140242A1) is a system designed to control the unloading and loading of ships using advanced technology. It includes a ship loading and unloading control system and related apparatuses, which work together to optimize the entire process. This system is aimed at improving the efficiency and coordination of maritime cargo handling, by utilizing scheduling systems, shore crane control systems, and vehicle control systems. It relies on technologies such as AI, big data, and automated scheduling and task management integrating with warehouse management systems to streamline operations.
This invention highlights the technological components of a smart port, aligning as it does with the concept of port automation and efficiency central to the idea of a smart port. By integrating various technological components like scheduling systems and crane control systems, it enables ports to manage loading and unloading processes more autonomously and efficiently. This integration facilitates real-time data sharing and decision-making, both key elements of a smart port's operations, leading to increased productivity, reduced operational costs and enhanced safety – all characteristics that define smart port capabilities.
Sea: ammonia as a marine fuel
Ammonia (NH3) is a potential alternative marine fuel composed of nitrogen and hydrogen that can power ships and produces only minimal carbon emissions. Its high energy density, established production and transportation infrastructure, and successful engine conversions make it a viable candidate for decarbonizing the maritime industry. There are two types of ammonia: green ammonia, produced using renewable energy sources, and blue ammonia, produced using natural gas with carbon capture and storage technology. Among the benefits of ammonia as a marine fuel are its carbon-neutral potential, global availability and existing infrastructure. However, challenges, such as toxicity, safety concerns, economic viability and production challenges, need to be addressed before mainstream adoption. Ongoing research and technological innovations aim to overcome these challenges and enhance ammonia's viability as a marine fuel.
Ammonia as a marine fuel has increasingly become a focal point of scientific research, driven by an urgent need for sustainable and low-carbon alternatives in the maritime industry. Over the past decade, there has been a significant rise in the number of publications exploring the potential of ammonia, reflecting its growing importance in the global push toward decarbonization. This surge in research is not only widespread across multiple countries, but gaining momentum, as indicated by the substantial increase in the number of studies, particularly in the last few years (Figure 5.4). Patenting activity in the field of ammonia as a marine fuel has recently picked up speed. From only 33 patent families in 2020, the number of patent publications had jumped to over 200 by 2023.
Technology at a glance
Because vessel designs play a vital role in respect to leakage and concerns regarding the toxicity of ammonia, Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., a prominent Japanese shipbuilding company, is actively involved in the development of ammonia-powered ships as part of its effort to contribute to the global transition toward greener maritime transport. A recent Nihon Shipyard patent (WO2023210390A1) from 2023 for an ammonia-fueled ship is a significant innovation that addresses the critical safety challenges associated with using ammonia as a marine fuel, particularly its toxicity and corrosiveness. The design features an advanced engine room layout, in which the space is divided into several distinct areas based on the varying risks of ammonia gas leakage. These areas are separated by specially designed partitions that prevent the spread of ammonia gas, effectively containing any potential leaks within specific zones and minimizing the risk to other parts of the ship.
Partitions can be configured to either completely seal off these areas or to only partition the upper spaces, depending on the level of risk and operational requirements. Additionally, in an emergency, the partitions are designed to allow water to pass through, providing a means of controlling or neutralizing leakage.
The engine room is thoughtfully divided into specific regions, for example, one that houses the generator using ammonia as fuel and another that contains the engine. A key safety feature is the inclusion of a designated area through which ammonia fuel does not pass, which further reduces the risk to critical components of exposure.
To further mitigate the risk of ammonia leakage, the patent proposes that areas with a higher likelihood of leakage are maintained at a lower internal pressure compared to those at lower risk. The pressure differential helps contain any ammonia gas within the high-risk zones and preventing it from spreading. Each region is also equipped with an independent ventilation system designed to effectively remove ammonia from the air. The ventilation systems are optimized with exhaust ports positioned higher than air supply ports thus ensuring the efficient removal of lighter ammonia gas, complemented by ventilation fans that actively manage air circulation.
This patent plays a crucial role in advancing the use of green ammonia as a marine fuel, by addressing the significant safety concerns that have been a barrier to its adoption. By implementing these advanced safety features, Nihon Shipyard is making it feasible to safely operate ammonia-fueled ships, thereby supporting the broader transition to this zero-carbon fuel. As the maritime industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, innovations like this patent are essential for making ammonia a viable and safe alternative to traditional fossil fuels, facilitating the industry's shift toward sustainable energy sources.
Air: sustainable aviation fuel
Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) are produced from renewable resources, offering an alternative to conventional jet fuels derived from fossil fuel. Some examples
Biofuels: these are made from organic materials such as plant oils, algae or agricultural waste. Examples include hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA) derived from plant oils and Fischer-Tropsch Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (FT-SPK), which is produced by converting biomass (e.g., wood or agricultural residue) into a synthetic fuel using the Fischer-Tropsch process.
Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ): this process converts alcohols, such as ethanol or butanol, into jet fuel. The alcohol is typically derived from renewable sources like corn or cellulosic biomass.
Power-to-Liquid (PtL): this type of SAF uses renewable electricity (e.g., wind or solar power) to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water into synthetic fuels, typically using a process called electrolysis and the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.
Camelina-based biofuels: camelina is a type of oilseed plant used to produce biofuel for aviation. It is seen as a promising feedstock, because it can be grown on land unsuitable for food crops.
Algae-based biofuels: algae produce oils that can be processed into SAFs; and, since algae can grow in water without competing with food crops, it is considered a highly sustainable option.
SAFs currently account for less than 0.1% of all aviation fuels consumed. Increasing their use to 10% by 2030 is seen as crucial if the aviation industry is to achieve its sustainability goals.
The scientific community has shown increasing interest in SAFs, as evidenced by the growing number of publications on the topic. Research focuses on improving production processes, assessing environmental impacts and enhancing the performance of SAFs in aviation applications. Figure 5.5 shows the number of scientific documents related to SAFs published annually from 2010 to 2023. The data show a steady increase in publications, with a significant surge starting around 2020. This trend indicates a growing interest in SAFs and their potential to transform the aviation industry. Patenting activity in the field of sustainable aviation fuels already increased at the end of the 2000s and peaked in 2014 with 128 patent families. After plateauing at this level for a few years, patenting activity declined and did not pick up significantly until 2023 when it reached over 150 patent families.
Technology at a glance
The invention described in a patent from Topsoe (WO2022171643A1) involves an innovative method for producing sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). This method focuses on using bio-based feedstocks, such as vegetable oils, and employs advanced chemical catalysts to optimize the conversion process. The goal is to enhance the efficiency of the feedstock-to-fuel conversion, resulting in a higher fuel yield and a reduced production costs.
Additionally, the SAFs produced using this method are designed to be compatible with existing aviation infrastructure and engines, requiring only minimal adjustments to fuel delivery systems. This approach aims to provide a commercially viable and environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional jet fuel, thereby reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuel.
Air: urban air mobility
Urban air taxis, also known as VTOLs (vertical takeoff and landing aircraft), are a significant advancement in urban air mobility (UAM), aiming to alleviate urban congestion and reduce travel times in densely populated areas. There are various types of urban air taxis under development, including vectored thrust, wingless, lift plus cruise, and tilt rotor configurations. The adoption of urban air mobility can lead to reduced travel times, decreased urban congestion, lower emissions and has substantial economic benefits. However, challenges remain in terms of infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, public acceptance and technical limitations, such as battery technology, flight safety and noise reduction.
The scientific community has shown increasing interest in urban air taxis, as evidenced by the growing number of publications on the topic. Research focuses on improving eVTOL technology, assessing environmental impacts, and enhancing the safety and efficiency of urban air mobility.
Figure 5.6 illustrates the trends in scientific publications and patents relating to urban air taxis from 2010 to 2023. This shows a steady increase in publications, with a significant increase starting around 2017. This trend indicates a growing interest in urban air taxis and their potential to transform urban transportation. Patenting activity in the field of urban air mobility has picked up speed significantly over the last ten years. The number of global patent families has jumped from 67 in 2014 to almost 400 in 2023.
The European Union (EU) has recently taken a monumental step in the realm of air transportation with the introduction of new aviation regulations designed to accommodate vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) technology. With new regulations, including the European Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/1111 set to take effect in May 2025 and updated Special Conditions for small-category VTOL, the EU has laid a comprehensive foundation for integrating crewed VTOL aircraft into Europe’s transportation ecosystem. In my view, these regulations are not only timely but transformative, enabling innovative air mobility (IAM) solutions to flourish under a robust and adaptable legislative framework.
What stands out for me is the inclusive and collaborative process undertaken by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in formulating these regulations. Over three years of consultation with industry stakeholders has ensured that the new framework reflects a balanced approach to safety, innovation and practical application. This openness to feedback and flexibility paves the way for diverse VTOL designs and operational models to thrive.
The new regulations define crewed IAM operations as the “safe, secure, and sustainable air mobility of passengers and cargo enabled by next-generation technologies integrated into a multimodal transportation system.” This forward-thinking definition underscores the EU's commitment to shaping a future for air transportation that is both innovative and sustainable.
A pivotal aspect of these regulations is the creation of a new aircraft category: VTOL- Capable Aircraft (VCA). By distinguishing these vehicles from traditional rotorcraft and airplanes, the EU recognizes the unique advantages of VTOL technology, particularly its reliance on distributed propulsion systems, which utilize more than two propulsion units. This innovation not only enhances operational safety by spreading critical functions across multiple components but also sets a new standard for modern aviation design.
The new regulations implement unified rules for VTOL operations across the EU to ensure consistent safety standards. While this framework is justified during the initial stages of shaping the regulatory landscape, I believe it requires modifications and simplifications to better accommodate small VCAs and non-commercial flights.
Given the current absence of procedures for obtaining VCA pilot certification, the regulatory decision to allow commercial pilots with airplane or helicopter licenses to obtain VCA type ratings addresses the immediate need for qualified operators. At the same time, the establishment of standards for vertiports and designated “diversion locations” ensures that infrastructure development keeps pace with technological advancements. This integrated approach reflects the EU's commitment to making VTOL operations scalable and seamless.
Looking ahead, as EASA gains experience and the IAM sector continues to expand, I anticipate further refinements to the regulatory framework, particularly the adoption of a more detailed common set of conditions for certification and Acceptable Means of Compliance and Guidance Material for VCA. I am particularly awaiting the introduction of simplified certification procedures for ultralight manned eVTOLs, which I believe will accelerate their market entry and stimulate innovation within this sector.
By creating a unified regulatory framework, the EU has provided much-needed clarity and fairness for manufacturers, operators and investors. These standards position the EU as a global leader in VTOL integration, advancing air mobility goals while aligning with broader objectives for accessible, sustainable and efficient transportation.
I am confident that this regulatory foundation will usher VTOLs into everyday transportation across Europe, unlocking the skies for a new era of air mobility. This visionary move sets a strong precedent for how regulation and innovation can coexist to drive progress. The EU is not only embracing the future of air transportation, but it is also setting a global standard for others to follow.
Technology at a glance
Recent developments from Lilium (EP3998191A1) include a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) passenger aircraft, emphasizing easy luggage access and energy efficiency. This VTOL aircraft combines helicopter-like capabilities for limited space takeoffs and landings with the high-speed and efficient cruising of conventional aircraft, aiming to reduce energy consumption, especially in electrically-powered eVTOL models. It includes a fuselage with a passenger cabin and a rear-accessible cargo bay, featuring an upward-opening door for efficient luggage loading without hindering passenger movement. The cargo bay is optimally positioned and sized to balance weight distribution and minimize aerodynamic drag. The design supports urban air taxi services, offering convenient regional mobility with sufficient luggage capacity and rapid access.
The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is creating quite a buzz! There are some people who think of it as something completely different from any other type of helicopter, manned or unmanned, but that is completely wrong. The eVTOL market can be looked upon as an evolution of the helicopter with such aircraft being managed the same way and flown the same way as a helicopter, even if they are made to look sleek and futuristic.
The eVTOL market can be separated into carrying passengers and carrying cargo. If we first look at the passenger market, aircraft are going to be manned and operated in exactly same way as a helicopter, unless it is a short jump along a very controlled route. Even if you could get a civil aviation authority to grant permission to fly commercially, you've got all sorts of other issues, including who's going to buy a ticket to sit in an aircraft controlled by a piece of software for which there is no certification system yet in place?
So, carrying passengers is what I call an aspiration. It is a brilliant idea, and it will eventually happen, but not until a long, long way down the line. We will still need a pilot, at least for the next 15 to 25 years. Getting to unmanned passenger vehicles will be more of a technology push than a market pull. It is still very expensive to build these electric aircraft. You will need a lot of certifications to assure safety, which will come at a huge cost so, besides the environmental argument, which is tenuous at best, it isn’t clear what the advantage is compared to the manned helicopters of today.
Cargo, on the other hand, has a very promising future.
The key here will be creating something that is of benefit to society and shaping the narrative accordingly. A drone flying over a beach full of people will immediately have you thinking of it as an invasion of privacy, but if you are told it is from the local council and that it is surveying the area to ensure there is no sewage going into the sea, you are reassured and likely to be okay with it buzzing overhead.
I would not like to look up at a sky full of drones delivering pizzas or a pair of gloves to my house and causing visual and noise pollution. Due to the number of drones required, it will be extremely difficult to make it safe and commercially viable and it will most definitely not be socially acceptable. So, when we hear about such things happening, it is generally more of a publicity stunt.
If a delivery is to a remote location that is really hard to get to, people will be more likely to accept it as a beneficial solution. However, if the drone is delivering emergency medicine to somebody who is so sick that they can’t leave their house or is enabling automation of cargo movement on the river Thames, thus reducing the number of trucks going through the middle of London, then not only does it become commercially viable, but also gets public buy in.
You must make sure you are engaging with the public, letting people know that those vehicles in the sky aren’t invading your privacy, for example, by making them distinctive in some way. So, when you look up at the sky you would know that it is just one of those drones going about its everyday business and in so doing helping to reduce traffic.
There are huge opportunities within this industry to make a lot of money and also make a great difference to people’s lives. For example, getting from a hub to a depot to a sub-depot along known routes that are low risk such as critical national infrastructure like roads or rail where you're not flying over people. You do need some infrastructure such as the “Digital Tethering” concept, which absolutely guarantees that an aircraft will not turn suddenly because its GPS has been confused and it’s lost. Of course, you will need to ensure that all the data being collected is governed strictly according to local laws, and the digital infrastructure will have to follow the guidance set out in the relevant safety and quality standards for unmanned air systems.
So you've got to have the infrastructure; you've got to have the safety in the aircraft; and you're going to have to take it one route at a time and not imagine that you can fly anywhere you want, any time you need to. It’s a tough business to make a success in due to the necessary legislative requirements but, those that do will be very successful.
Space: additive manufacturing in space
Additive manufacturing (AM) in space, also known as in situ manufacturing, is a process that creates objects layer by layer using locally available resources and adapting to the space environment's constraints. This technology aims to support long-term space missions, by reducing dependency on Earth-supplied materials and enhancing the sustainability of space exploration. AM in space allows for the creation of larger structures directly in space, bypassing limitations imposed by the size of launch vehicle fairings. It also significantly reduces costs, by allowing the production of necessary components on-site, minimizing the frequency and cost of resupply missions. Various additive manufacturing techniques are being developed and utilized in space, including polymer additive manufacturing, metal additive manufacturing and regolith-based manufacturing. The benefits of AM in space include reduced need to carry a large inventory of spares, cost savings, the creation of complex geometries and improved sustainability of exploration missions. However, challenges remain. Among them are ensuring materials printed in space have the same properties as those manufactured on Earth, adapting to unique environmental challenges, as well as integrating new manufacturing technologies into existing spacecraft systems.
The scientific community has shown increasing interest in AM in Space, as evidenced by the growing number of publications on the topic. Figure 5.7 shows an increase in the number of scientific documents published annually in the field from 2014 to 2023. This chart reveals several notable trends. Initially, the field experienced slow growth from 2014 to 2016, indicating the nascent stages of research and foundational studies during these years. The number of scientific publications began to rise significantly around 2016–2017, reflecting increased interest and early development efforts. This period likely marks the transition from exploratory research to more focused studies and early applications.
Patent analysis shows increasing patenting activity in recent times, suggesting a period of accelerated research and significant advancements, possibly driven by technological breakthroughs, increased funding, and heightened interest from both academia and industry. The number of published patent families has increased from only 10 in 2014 to 46 in 2023.
Technology at a glance
In 2019, BAE Systems developed an early additive manufacturing system for space. The invention (EP3527373A1) pertains to an advanced system for manufacturing articles in space, integrated into a space-based object, for example, a space vehicle or station. The core component is an additive manufacturing apparatus that uses supplied feedstock to produce various articles. This apparatus is supported by a feedstock storage module, ensuring a steady material supply, and a controller that manages manufacturing operations.
A key feature is the recycling module. This converts waste material into usable feedstock, enhancing sustainability and efficiency by minimizing waste and reducing the need for new materials. Additionally, the system includes a machining apparatus for further processing, with waste from both additive manufacturing and machining being recycled.
This space-based object can dock with other objects, allowing the exchange of waste materials and manufactured or repaired articles, facilitating resource sharing during space missions. A storage module holds articles for repair, which the manufacturing apparatus can then process, thus extending the life of critical components.
An inspection module assures the quality of manufactured articles, and the system can communicate with an Earth-based facility for data transfer and remote control. The manufacturing apparatus is versatile and capable of using wire, plastic or metal feedstock, making it adaptable for various needs. Designed to be autonomous or remotely controlled, this system represents a significant advancement in the field of in-space manufacturing, supporting long-term missions through improved efficiency and sustainability.
Additive manufacturing will become more prevalent in the manufacturing of parts, not just in the space sector but overall. We will probably see it becoming more widespread and being adopted with confidence in space applications. The question is, how quickly?
The key challenge is certification. Standards and certifications are very important to assure that a part is reliable for operational use. We are seeing additive manufacturing being used in making small, non-critical parts. But to move on to making critical and bigger parts, I think the key is to adopt and implement standards quickly. That is when I think there is going to be a step change. There needs to be standards for manufacturing, testing and inspection, as well as certificates for quality assurance.
Another aspect is component traceability – from design to end-of-life, something like the European Union’s proposed digital product passport. Then you can trace back if there is a failure. Or if there is no replacement, you can trace back to what process was used and who did what.
There was news recently of a metal part being produced at the International Space Station. This takes additive manufacturing in space a step further, up from just printing plastic parts. This is something that could be used on the Moon, or Mars or in space, say, using materials available on space bodies. However, we are not going to be mining on the Moon or Mars for a very long time. First, we need to prove everything works well. And for that we will need to carry all the raw materials from Earth. What you have with you is what you get.
As opposed to printing spare parts or components, there is the potential for additive manufacturing to be used to print parts that you want to take with you when you go into space, but maybe don’t have the room. Or how about personalizing a space mission crew or even a space tourist’s journey. When you are on site, you can simply pull up the design file and print it, be it a harness or a scientific instrument. This gives you the ability to react to your needs on demand.
To me, the most interesting materials are shape memory materials, which give you the ability to not just make a material, but by using some trigger for it to change its shape, say, a big complex solar panel that unfurls itself in space.
Although I still do not foresee this happening within the next 15 to 20 years, things may change within a shorter time, once you jump the certification hurdle.
Space: blockchain in satellite communications
Blockchain technology in satellite communication enhances security, efficiency, and management by utilizing decentralized digital ledgers, smart contracts and advanced encryption methods. It addresses critical security challenges, by providing a tamper- proof method of managing data and command transmissions, improving satellite network management efficiency and enabling the creation of secure and virtual trusted zones in space.
Blockchain implementations in satellite communication include using satellites as nodes within a blockchain network, as validators or miners, and for requesting that specific data transactions be stored on the blockchain. The benefits of integrating blockchain in satellite communication include enhanced security, improved efficiency, transparency, traceability and reliability. However, challenges, such as limited computational power, storage capacity, energy resources, latency issues, scalability and integration into existing systems must be addressed.
The analysis of scientific publications in the field of blockchain in satellite communication underscores a dynamic and rapidly evolving field, marked by intense research activity followed by signs of stabilization or a shift in focus. The global distribution of research output highlights not only the technological ambitions of leading nations, but also the strategic importance of blockchain technology in securing satellite communications on a worldwide scale. This global perspective is crucial for identifying potential areas for international collaboration and understanding the geopolitical dynamics within technological development.
Figure 5.8 shows the annual scientific publication trends from 2010 to 2023, revealing a significant growth in research and publications. This trend suggests an initial period of heightened interest and activity in the field, likely driven by an increasing recognition of blockchain's potential to enhance the security and efficiency of satellite communications. The sharp increase in publications reflects ongoing development and exploration within the field, indicating a robust phase of innovation and theoretical exploration. That said, patenting activity in the field of blockchain in satellite communications has only started to increase noticeably since 2017. In 2023, the number of published patent families in the field reached 57.
Technology at a glance
Already in the early years of blockchain technology Lockheed has invented a system for managing data storage on a satellite platform using blockchain technology (EP3766190A1). The core idea involves a network of satellites working together to maintain a blockchain ledger. When a first satellite identifies a request for a ledger entry in the blockchain, it distributes this entry to other satellites in the network, which act as full nodes for the blockchain. The receiving satellites verify the ledger entry and, if verified, they enter the ledger entry into their individual ledgers. If the entry is not verified, it is not recorded. This decentralized system assures that multiple satellites participate in maintaining and verifying the blockchain, enhancing data integrity and reliability.
Additionally, the blockchain can be part of a distributed application running on multiple satellites, processing requests from ground systems, sensors or other satellites. This Lockheed patent leverages blockchain technology so as to enhance the reliability and integrity of data storage and management across a network of satellites.