OKI small-lot custom length FPCs for New Space industry

OKI Electric Cable has recently introduced a new line of small-lot, custom long flexible printed circuits (FPCs) tailored for rockets and satellites in the emerging New Space industry. These specialized circuits are specifically designed for spot production, catering to orders ranging from single prototypes to small lots, making them ideal for research, development, and prototyping purposes.

Targeting the rapidly expanding global space market, these FPCs are poised to revolutionize the industry by enabling the creation of smaller, lighter, and thinner equipment. Leveraging proprietary production technology at its Gunma Factory in Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture, OKI can now manufacture long FPCs up to 100 meters in length, facilitating small-lot custom development and production. These innovative products are anticipated to drive advancements in space equipment development, streamline lead times, and ultimately reduce launch costs. OEC has set a sales target of 50 million yen for FY2026.

One of the key advantages of FPCs is their ability to bend freely, allowing for wiring in confined or three-dimensional spaces within equipment and in moving parts that undergo repeated flexing. These electrical circuits are constructed on a substrate composed of a conductive metal like copper foil bonded to a thin, lightweight, soft, durable, and flexible insulating base film, such as polyimide, known for its high heat and radiation resistance.

OKI FPCs have already demonstrated their reliability in various space equipment applications, including their installation on IKAROS, the small solar-powered sail demonstrator developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Additionally, OEC has implemented two distinct production systems — a sheet-fed line for small-lot production and a roll-to-roll line for mass production. These systems are capable of producing a wide range of shapes and sizes, even from single lots, and can adapt to different specifications based on the installation location. They cater to diverse needs, from development and prototype manufacturing to mass production, significantly contributing to the miniaturization and weight reduction of space equipment, thereby aiding in the reduction of launch costs.

By introducing these custom long FPCs tailored for the New Space industry, OKI Electric Cable is not only meeting the evolving demands of the space market but also driving innovation in space equipment development. With a focus on flexibility, durability, and efficiency, these circuits are set to play a crucial role in advancing the capabilities of rockets and satellites, ultimately shaping the future of space exploration and technology.