Microgravity-wear
Lead Research Organisation:
University College London
Department Name: Bartlett Sch of Architecture
Abstract
The main aim of this research is to develop smart, adaptable microgravity-wear, which prevents human bone and muscle deterioration in extreme environments. There are two main components:
1/ Firstly, to map relevant musculoskeletal unloading mechanisms, blood volume re-distribution and postural changes to integrated focus areas on the body. ESA/NASA research data and expertise has been arranged to support this.
2/ Secondly, to prototype and test 4D-adaptable bodysuits with active elements corresponding to musculoskeletal un-loading and blood re-distribution. Computer-generated knit and textile manufacturing methods will be employed for fabrication, and Digital Image Correlation will analyse the existing strain adaptations and be used to optimise integration of the active elements of the suit.
The exomuscle bodysuit's specific target is to condition astronauts' physiology, with the focus on minimising bone and muscle deterioration, when living in weightlessness <6 months. Yet, this research has a much wider application possibilities to osteoporotic patients on Earth (people in bedrest and suffering from cerebral palsy, aging population etc.).
1/ Firstly, to map relevant musculoskeletal unloading mechanisms, blood volume re-distribution and postural changes to integrated focus areas on the body. ESA/NASA research data and expertise has been arranged to support this.
2/ Secondly, to prototype and test 4D-adaptable bodysuits with active elements corresponding to musculoskeletal un-loading and blood re-distribution. Computer-generated knit and textile manufacturing methods will be employed for fabrication, and Digital Image Correlation will analyse the existing strain adaptations and be used to optimise integration of the active elements of the suit.
The exomuscle bodysuit's specific target is to condition astronauts' physiology, with the focus on minimising bone and muscle deterioration, when living in weightlessness <6 months. Yet, this research has a much wider application possibilities to osteoporotic patients on Earth (people in bedrest and suffering from cerebral palsy, aging population etc.).
People |
ORCID iD |
| Sean Hanna (Primary Supervisor) | |
| Anna Talvi (Student) |
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/T517793/1 | 01/10/2020 | 30/09/2025 | |||
| 2414650 | Studentship | EP/T517793/1 | 01/10/2020 | 27/09/2024 | Anna Talvi |