Laser tile machining process

A three-dimensional laser machining process is being developed to cut replacement tiles for the Space Shuttle. The process involves a carbon dioxide laser and a computer-controlled five-axis positioner. To date, successful straight-through cuts, curved-through cuts, and partial cuts have been made by the laser. Felt reusable surface insulation, another component of the Shuttle´s thermal protection system, has also been successfully cut using the laser. At the conclusion of research, if successful, a production version of the laser machining process will be implemented by Lockheed at the Kennedy Space Center