Search Results

This study was performed to aide in the creation of design requirements for the next generation of space suits that more accurately describe the level of mobility necessary for a suited crewmember through the use of an innovative methodology utilizing functional mobility. A novel method was utilized involving the collection of kinematic data while 20 subjects (10 male, 10 female) performed pertinent functional tasks that will be required of a suited crewmember during various phases of a lunar mission. These tasks were selected based on relevance and criticality from a larger list of tasks that may be carried out by the crew. Kinematic data was processed through Vicon BodyBuilder software to calculate joint angles for the ankle, knee, hip, torso, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Maximum functional mobility was consistently lower than maximum isolated mobility.

A study was conducted to evaluate the performance characteristics of hand strength measurement devices in both earth gravity and zero gravity. It was noted that both hand grip and pinch strengths increased by approximately 14% in zero gravity. We believe that an exposure to zero gravity will affect the co-contracting muscle activity. More specifically, we hypothesize that the zero gravity silences or shuts down the antagonistic or anti-gravity muscles. This in turn will result in greater joint strengths when agonist muscles are activated voluntarily. This could also expose a joint to overexertion or injury situations. In summary, there is a great need to understand how zero gravity affects the musculoskeletal system from a biomechanical perspective.

The objective of this investigation was to measure and document the existence of any significant differences in physical performance under operational conditions between the Launch Entry Suit (LES) and the new Advanced Crew Escape Suit (ACES). The LES is a partial pressure suit currently worn by astronauts during the launch and entry phases of Shuttle missions. The ACES is a full pressure suit under consideration as a replacement for the LES. One prototype ACES has been fabricated and was used in this investigation. This report presents the results of three tests conducted with six subjects to allow a comparative evaluation of the two suits. The three tests included a reach envelope test, a strength test, and a treadmill test. The reach envelope test measured and compared the maximum hand displacements during horizontal and vertical reaches of both left and right arms in one-g conditions.