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Restraints in space range between the simplicity of foot loops and the dissatisfaction of current restraints with a more welcome stabilization closer to the body's center of gravity. Although there is a line of upper thigh restraints, which come close to a terrestrial chair analogue, they are not currently implemented in design standards. In 1999 a team of architects and engineers at the University of Technology Munich developed a modular, foldable astronaut's workstation with integrated seat restraint. Prototypes were tested successfully on parabolic flights at NASA-JSC. In 2002 an exhibition model for the Space Station Mock-up at EADS Space in Bremen was ordered. Due to a limited budget, the original full aluminium design models had to be changed dramatically in construction to save costs. Nevertheless, the opportunity to rebuild the models for an exhibition has been taken, to study options to make the construction of the workstation much lighter.

Based on a preliminary study for a Mobile Pressurized Laboratory made during the European Mars Mission Architecture Study conducted for ESA, a further design development of the laboratory and interior functional layout is planned. This includes volume optimization, wheel system and geometry, interior layout and functional zoning, airlock placement and ergonomics, radiation protection, ergonomic detailing of habitation functions like sleep, kitchen, hygiene, ergonomics of work environment for driver, glove box, laboratory and storage systems and spatial flexibility and adaptability. The Mobile Pressurized Laboratory (MPL) as shown in figure 1 is envisaged for the exploration of the Martian surface. The MPL may also be used as a safe haven in emergency. The vehicle's normal complement is two astronauts and they may perform surface excursions lasting up to 20 Sol over distances of up to 500 km. In the safe haven mode the MPL can accommodate six astronauts for a period of up to 7 Sol.