Barum & Dewar is delighted to confirm a successful design contract win for AST & Science’s latest project, Blue Walker 3.

Based in Texas, AST & Science is a satellite communications company who are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. This exciting project will allow regular smartphones to access “SpaceMobile” which will connect users to an ultra-fast and powerful 4G/5G network, everywhere on the planet, meaning that no matter if users are based on land, sea or on a flight, they will be able to enjoy uninterrupted access.

The first step in the project was to find a trusted partner that could deliver protective storage and transport solutions. The project team contacted Barum & Dewar as they were on an incredibly tight timeframe for this project to be delivered and they knew with B&D’s level of experience, a quick turnaround could be achieved.

With the project already underway, the team decided to split the project into two phases, design and manufacture, awarding Barum & Dewar the design phase. Drawing on the extensive knowledge of the space sector, the B&D team quickly assessed the requirements and articulated a proposed design concept to AST. The use of the latest 3D CAD and virtual online meeting capability further increased the ability to commit to a tight turnaround. This fast response and a clear idea of the solution required provided the client with the confidence that Barum & Dewar was the correct choice to make their trusted partner which allowed the client to redeploy their team and focus on other tasks.

The solution provided was a design concept based around B&D’s field proven DELTA^® container range. Client approval was given quickly, and a design phase contract was placed.

Over the coming weeks Barum & Dewar’s experienced design team will oversee shock and vibration analysis and mount selection as well as modelling and determining interface arrangements between container and satellite. The container will require manual handling features, a complete labelling package, modelling and client approval ahead of production sign off.

David Frame, Managing Director commented, “Having all aspects of the design and development fully controlled in-house by Barum & Dewar’s technical design team will ensure that the short lead-time is adhered to and our level of responsiveness will be a huge benefit to overall project delivery. The partnership philosophy that B&D have implemented throughout the business over the years will ensure client engagement throughout the process helping develop a great relationship, built on trust, expertise and confidence.”

The B&D team are looking forward to completing their phase of the overall ground-breaking project.