Product category:
Laser marking systems
News Release from: DataLase | Subject: Guardmark system and NASA
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 05 May 2008
Laser code marking put to ultimate test
DataLase said durability of its marked RFID tags and aluminium discs prints will be tested in the most extreme conditions when launched into space on latest NASA research mission.
DataLase and NASA will launch a selection of marked RFID tags and aluminium discs into space They will be exposed to extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, hard vacuum and contamination
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 16 Feb 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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The experiment will form part of NASA's latest research aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and will test the durability of DataLase marking techniques under extreme conditions.
The tags and discs have been marked with 2D codes and text and will be attached to the outside of the ISS for a full year.
Researchers chose the DataLase Guardmark system because of its capacity to produce high-quality, indelible marks capable of withstanding the extreme conditions found in space.
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The technique achieves a faster and higher quality print than traditional inkjet marking counterparts, said dataLase.
Marks created are also indelible and tamper proof.
NASA launched the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE 6) on February 7, 2008 aboard the space shuttle Atlantis.
CEO at DataLase, Steve Kelly, said: "Everyone involved with the project is very proud to be part of NASA mission.
We have always believed our technology provides customers with a greater quality of marking than inkjet printing technologies, and it is gratifying to be recognised by technology leaders such as NASA.
We are confident our solution will stand up to the rigorous requirements and look forward to undertaking continued programs with NASA and related bodies".
The components aboard were marked using a laser beam to create identification images on DataLase's novel colour change labelling.
Ensuring traceability of such components is vital in space exploration; the capacity to create indelible marks is of great importance.
The marked Intermec parts that survive the 12 month period will return to Earth for further evaluation and testing.
Should the DataLase markings perform as expected, the technology will be added to NASA's list of part identification requirements and will be used to track and trace parts and equipment on future space missions.
DataLase systems will also be added to the approved list of identification requirements used by the US Armed Forces.
The technology could then be rapidly integrated into existing manufacturing systems within organisations, said DataLase to manufacturingtalk, including the US Navy and Department of Defense for the tracking of weapons and equipment.
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