Technology Title
Parts Life, Inc. Response to Maintenance Innovation Challenge
Tech Focus Area
Additive Manufacturing
Abstract
Combat systems deployed worldwide face persistent sustainment challenges. Equipment failures in the field lead to Non-Ready for Issue systems, delaying missions and reducing combat effectiveness. Traditional sustainment models rely on extensive supply chains and pre-stocked inventories, both of which are impractical in contested or austere environments where logistics are unreliable, and time sensitive repairs are critical. The Department of Defense requires a more agile and resilient approach to ensure continuous readiness in all operational domains.
Parts Life, Inc. has developed the Engineering and Electronic Product Innovation Center (EEPIC) to address these challenges. EEPIC is a portable, self-reliant sustainment solution capable of delivering manufacturing, repair, inspection, and diagnostics directly at the point of need. Housed in a secure, ISO-compliant 8’ x 20’ shipping container, the system can be rapidly deployed by land, air, or sea. Once on-site, it expands into a 20’ x 20’ configurable, climate-controlled facility, providing a fully functional environment for sustainment operations. It is operable on generator or shore power, requires no external resupply, and is designed for use by trained personnel or local operators. EEPIC’s versatility allows it to adapt to mission requirements and fleet-specific needs.
Technical capabilities include reverse engineering or inspection with 3D scanning, material analysis, and non-destructive testing, as well as conventional manufacturing with CNC milling, turning, or precision assembly. Depending on mission priorities, advanced manufacturing with metallic and polymer additive processes, or on-site diagnostics and calibration for immediate repair and validation, can also be employed.
The system is structured to support both Government-Owned/Contractor-Operated (GO/CO) and Government-Owned/Government-Operated (GO/GO) models, with the flexibility to transition from contractor-led operations to full government operation as required. Standalone software, operable without internet connectivity, enables secure and independent use in contested environments. Successful integration of EEPIC requires personnel training, system standardization, and tailoring capabilities to mission-specific requirements, all achievable within existing DoD frameworks. Designed with flexibility at its core, EEPIC can be configured to operational needs, scaled to mission size, and customized to local environments while integrating ISO-compliant manufacturing, additive production, and diagnostic systems proven in commercial use and adapted to DoD standards. This positions EEPIC as a near-term, fieldable solution capable of bridging sustainment gaps in demanding environments, directly enhancing fleet readiness and mission effectiveness.
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