Body Suspension Device for Microgravity and Hypogravity Simulations
The body suspension device, built at the MicroG Center, is a pyramidal structure constructed from steel bars with a rectangular base area (300cm x 226cm) and a height of 200cm. A steel cable connects counterweights through a system of pulleys to a harness worn by a volunteer, secured around the legs, waist and chest. The amount of weight to be reduced is calculated using a mathematical formula that estimates the weight of arms, head, neck and chest of the volunteer, and gives their proportional weight based on a pre-set reduced gravity value.
This device can be used for ground-based simulation of microgravity and hypogravity environments, such as found on the International Space Station, the Moon and Mars, by decreasing or cancelling out the apparent weight of the volunteer. The Microgravity Center has been involved in more than 10 years research in the performance of basic life support (especially depth of external chest compressions) and walking patterns in reduced gravity environments. The studies embody the measurement of several physiological variables, such as heart rate, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, pulmonary ventilation, superficial electromiography, and rate of perceived exertion. They are very unique studies that aim to contribute to best-practice for the handling of cardiovascular emergencies in space missions and to enhance our knowledge regarding human adaptation to living and working on extra-terrestrial bodies.
This device can be used for ground-based simulation of microgravity and hypogravity environments, such as found on the International Space Station, the Moon and Mars, by decreasing or cancelling out the apparent weight of the volunteer. The Microgravity Center has been involved in more than 10 years research in the performance of basic life support (especially depth of external chest compressions) and walking patterns in reduced gravity environments. The studies embody the measurement of several physiological variables, such as heart rate, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, pulmonary ventilation, superficial electromiography, and rate of perceived exertion. They are very unique studies that aim to contribute to best-practice for the handling of cardiovascular emergencies in space missions and to enhance our knowledge regarding human adaptation to living and working on extra-terrestrial bodies.
