Simulation Analysis of A Cable-Driven Astronaut on-Orbit Physical Exercise Equipment

Abstract

It has been proved by aerospace medicine that physical exercises are the most effective countermeasure to eliminate the negative influence brought by microgravity when astronauts carry out space exploration missions. A cable-driven astronaut on-orbit physical exercise equipment (CAPE) is proposed in this paper, and to verify its feasibility and performance: First, the cable-driven astronaut on-orbit physical exercise equipment was introduced. Second, the force analysis of the CAPE-assisted deep squat was conducted, and the cable tension distribution strategy was established. Third, the simulation study was carried out by utilizing Matlab. The results demonstrate that the deep squat conducted by the CAPE is smooth and steady, the cable tension distribution strategy is accurate, astronaut can realize deep squat during a space trip with the assistance of CAPE.