Extravehicular Activity Space Suit Glove Development for Future Space Exploration

Abstract

This paper describes recent efforts towards developing a David Clark Company Incorporated (DCCI) Phase VII Extravehicular Activity (EVA) space suit glove. In order to meet the requirements associate to future manned missions to the Moon, near earth objects, Mars and its Moons, or other deep space destinations, new technologies must be developed that have the potential to optimize the performance of future EVA space suit systems. Given this need for improved space suit gloves, DCCI designed and manufactured a pair of prototype EVA gloves with the overall goal of advancing the state-of-the-art of glove technology. The development effort was structured to build upon the DCCI Phase I through VI EVA glove designs while incorporating new and innovative technologies. One required element of the design was to incorporate improved fingers using the latest version of a unique restraint material known as Link-net. Three concepts each for the design of the wrist, thumb, and Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint were developed, and these nine concepts were then down-selected to form the basis of the design for this pair of Phase VII prototype gloves. The final design of the DCCI Phase VII EVA glove incorporates a breathable bladder, which is both stronger and thinner than previously tested glove bladder materials. Link-net is employed in the fingers, thumb, and on the back of the MCP joint, to provide mobility and comfort. A rigid fiberglass exoskeletal restraint minimizes palm ballooning, and creates breakpoints for both the MCP and thumb joints. The wrist employs a system of three rigid rings, connected with rigid, pivoting linkages. Preliminary test data shows that the Phase VII gloves exceed the range of motion requirements. Subjective evaluations with respect to fit, comfort, dexterity, mobility, and other criteria have been positive. The glove development team hopes to expand on the work performed in this effort and continue to advance EVA glove technology in future efforts.