Joint modeling and dynamic analysis of the microenvironment and life support performance of extravehicular spacesuits

Abstract

The ability to maintain the microenvironment and life-support systems of an extravehicular spacesuit is an important factor in determining the duration of extravehicular activity (EVA). This paper introduces a joint human-spacesuit microenvironment dynamic model. The paper presents novel simplified human body models and analyzes expendable substances. These models can reasonably predict spacesuit safety performance, correctly respond to changes in loads, and aid in the optimization of the intensity of EVAs. According to the simulations, an 8-h EVA consumes approximately 1 kg of LiOH and 2.7 kg of water under the designed working conditions. Liquid cooling systems are the primary thermal management devices in microenvironments. Activity intensity and liquid cooling system flow rate are two important factors that influence the spacesuit microenvironment and life support material consumption. Activity intensity has a significant impact on LiOH consumption, with a threefold increase in metabolic heat increases LiOH consumption by about 2.5 times. Activity intensity plays an important role in the life-support performance of a spacesuit, and proper scheduling is critical to the efficiency and safety of EVAs. The material consumption model can estimate material consumption during the mission scheduling phase, resulting in efficient and dependable operation of the life support system.