Our Product: Celestron
3D Model & Prototype
Front View
Side View
Back View
Waist Design
Leg Design
Switch Buton
(Start Point)
Switch Buton (Enhancing Mode)
Hand Design
Switch Buton (Resisting Mode)
Core Design Elements
Exoskeleton Structure and Materials:
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Carbon Fiber Skeleton: Celestron uses a lightweight carbon fiber frame with a high strength-to-weight ratio. This is essential for space applications due to strict payload limitations and the significant costs associated with transporting materials to orbit. The stiffness of carbon fiber also ensures minimal deformation under load, which is necessary for astronaut mobility in space.
Soft Components (Spandex): For fastening points (the part that enables users to get in the exoskeleton and fasten the body to it), we use spandex, elastomeric material with a huge elongation capacity (400%—8001%). This allows the suit to stretch and adjust to the astronaut's movements, reducing discomfort during extended wear. Additionally, spandex is highly breathable, preventing overheating, which is essential in a harsh space environment.
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Sensor Integration and Feedback:
EMG Sensors for Muscle Synchronization: The integration of Electromyography (EMG) sensors allows for real-time monitoring of muscle activity. This feedback loop ensures that the exoskeleton's movements are synchronized with the astronaut's own, preventing overexertion and allowing for natural movement patterns.
Torque Sensors for power adjusting: Strain gauges, microcontroller and Wheatstone bridge circuits measure the joint torque to get data about how hard it is to move at joints. This data is used to adjust the stiffness or enhancement level.
Arduino Microcontroller Interface: The Arduino microcontroller processes the EMG data and adjusts the motor output accordingly, fine-tuning the force required for different tasks. This system enables optimal force application based on the user's physical condition and task complexity.
Actuation Methods and Components:
Artificial Muscles (Cable Tension-Driven): Celestron employs cable tension-driven artificial muscles to actuate arms and shoulders. These artificial muscles use vinyl pipes, metal rods, and coiled cables that contract and generate torque when actuated by step motors. This innovative solution eliminates the need for bulky pneumatic systems or heavy electric actuators, making the exoskeleton lighter and more energy-efficient.
Servo Motors for Finger and Wrist Movement: Hand exoskeletons of Celestron utilize servo motors for dexterous movements such as finger and wrist actions ensuring precision and fine control during tasks like sample collection or equipment handling in space.
Rotational Joints for Mobility: Celestron mimics natural joint movement by using rotational joints at the hips and knees, ensuring that astronauts can perform tasks requiring precise and delicate motions. These joints, integrated with the carbon-fiber skeleton, enhance mobility and task performance in zero-gravity environments.
Passive Support Elements:
Springs at Joints for Stability: The passive support provided by the springs reduces fatigue by absorbing some of the stress experienced by the joints during repetitive tasks. These springs also stabilize the joints, providing additional support for the astronaut during long-duration activities, such as moonwalking or handling heavy equipment in space.
Whole-body rigidity in the exoskeleton ensures the load is efficiently transferred to the ground, reducing the physical strain on astronauts. In microgravity environments, astronauts face challenges like muscle atrophy and bone loss, which can weaken their physical capabilities over time. During extended EVA missions, carrying heavy loads such as life-support backpacks can become particularly taxing. By redirecting these loads to the ground through a rigid exoskeleton structure, the device minimizes the stress on the astronaut's weakened body, enabling them to perform tasks more effectively and safely.
You can access a detailed component breakdown for our product here!
Mechanics
Step Motor
Rotary Actuator
Servo Motor
Rope
Electronics
EMG (Electromyography)
Reaction Torque Sensor
Lithium-ion battery
Coating
Carbon Fiber
Vinyl Tubing
Steel Rod
User Guide
Celestron User Guide