Client Spotlight: Orb Aerospace

TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT LEADS TO NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

"Orb is the first company to design, build, and manufacture aircraft in Michigan since WWII. We're excited to join local, state, and federal partners, such as MMTC and The Right Place, to build on the foundation of Michigan automotive and reindustrialize Michigan aerospace manufacturing."

- Brian Davis, Chief Operation Officer, Orb Aerospace

COMPANY PROFILE:

Orb Aerospace (www.orb.aero) is an innovative company focused on advancing technologies in aerospace design and manufacturing. Committed to pioneering solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability, Orb Aerospace sought to enhance its operations and invest in new product development to stay competitive in an evolving aerospace industry. Located in Lowell, Mich., they presently have 16 employees.

SITUATION:

Orb Aerospace aimed to retain significant sales and explore avenues for new product development while modernizing its facilities and equipment. With ambitious goals, they required structured guidance on implementing advanced technology and securing financial support to achieve these objectives.

SOLUTION:

Through an Industry 4.0 Technology Assessment with Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), Orb Aerospace received a detailed analysis of its operational needs and opportunities for technological advancement. As a result, Orb Aerospace secured a Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Technology Adoption grant, empowering them to purchase a robotic 3D printer. By integrating a 3D printer into their processes, Orb Aerospace was able to create prototype parts inhouse, decrease delays associated with outsourcing and unsuitable parts, and create new prototype drones adhering to strict confidentiality contracts.

“Orb is on a mission to solve the aerospace efficiencies in pursuit of designing, building and flying aircraft for all mankind, not just the select few among us. With Frederick Bruner leading the additive manufacturing lab and in partnership with MMTC, The Right Place, and NIST, we see clear skies ahead for new innovative applications of additive manufacturing in aerospace manufacturing and tooling right here in Michigan,” said Cody Copus, Chief Financial Officer.

RESULTS:

• Retained Sales: $2,000,000; Securing their market position.

• New Sales: $150,000 in new product revenues.

• Retained Jobs: 3; Maintaining workforce stability.

• New Investment: Committed $500,000 in plant and equipment upgrades.