Project Title:

Vibration Isolation of Exercise Treadmill in Microgravity

12.05-8148
Vibration Isolation of Exercise Treadmill in Microgravity
Triangle R&D Corporation
PO Box 12696
Research Triangle Park
NC
27709
Amit L.
Patra
(919-781-8148)
JSC

Abstract:

This Phase I project will investigate the technical feasibility of a means for vibration
isolation of the treadmill aboard the Space Station which will allow astronauts to
exercise in order to avoid or minimize calcium loss. At the present time, the treadmills
used in space are man-operated to supply the requirement for daily exercise. Preliminary
analysis, however, has indicated that the present system can transmit the vibration
of running to the structure of the space ship and introduce undesirable vibrations
or oscillations that could negatively impact sensitive onboard experiments. The solution
will be the development of an active isolation system (shock absorbers) based upon
superior damping characteristics of electro-rheological fluids. These shock absorbers
could be placed beneath the exercise platform and isolate the vibration and noise
from the floor of the space ship.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  Improved vibration and acoustic isolation could
be applied in sensitive equipment such as used in optical, microelectronic and precision
manufacturing.