An Ergonomic Evaluation of the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Spacesuit Hard Upper Torso (HUT) Size Effect on Mobility, Strength, and Metabolic Performance. (September 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reid, Christopher R.; Harvill, Lauren R.; Norcross, Jason R.; Benson, Elizabeth A.; England, Scott A.; Young, Karen; Rajulu, Sudhakar L.
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society ... Annual Meeting. Volume 58:Part 1(2014)
• Page Start: 1595
• Page End: 1599
• Publication Date: 2014-09
• Subjects: Human engineering -- Congresses; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1177/1541931214581332
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1541-9312

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this project was to develop a comprehensive methodology to assess the suit fit and performance differences between a nominally sized extravehicular mobility unit (EMU) spacesuit and a nominal +1 (plus) sized EMU.Method: This study considered a multitude of evaluation metrics including 3D clearances and pressure point mapping to quantify potential issues associated with using off-nominal suit sizes.Results: There were minimal differences with using a plus suit size.Discussion: Analysis of the results indicates that future suit size evaluations should consider this ergonomic approach to understand and mitigate potential suit fit and performance issues.