Enhanced Dynamic Load Sensors for ISS (EDLS-ISS) Operational Feasibility for Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) Testing

Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)

Description

Exercise countermeasures are used extensively onboard the International Space Station (ISS) today to mitigate bone mineral density loss and muscle atrophy among crew members during long duration spaceflight missions. These exercise countermeasure systems are generally effective, but currently include limited on-orbit collection and analysis of biomechanical data that may advance the efficiency of these systems. Aurora Flight Sciences and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are developing a self-contained load sensing system that collects biomechanical force and moment data while integrated with the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) on the ISS: the Enhanced Dynamic Load Sensor for ISS (EDLS-ISS). This system is based on a series of design improvements to the existing 6-DOF force and moment sensor, Microgravity Investigation of Crew Reactions in 0-G (MICR0-G) Adapt. We plan to test EDLS-ISS in parabolic flight, in order to extend its Technology Readiness Level to 6 and prepare it for use on the ISS.
Video of ARED
SBIR Phase I (2013)
SBIR Phase II (2014)

Benefits

Exercise countermeasures currently in use on the International Space Station include limited on-orbit collection and analysis of biomedical data. This new load sensing technology will enable exercise routines to be fine-tuned to further reduce bone loss while on-orbit, benefitting future NASA missions.

Details

Technology area	Human Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems > Human Health and Performance > Prevention and Countermeasures
Program	Flight Opportunities (FO)
Lead organization	Aurora Flight Sciences Corp. - Cambridge, Cambridge, MA
Start date	2014-06-30
End date	2016-01-22

Project contacts

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Christopher Krebs
Jessica Duda

How to get involved

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