Abstract
On-orbit servicing of payloads is simplified when a spacecraft has been designed for serviceability. A key design criterion for a serviceable spacecraft is standardization of electrical connectors. The following research investigated the effects of extravehicular mobility unit (EMU) glove size, connector size, and connector type on usability of electrical connectors. An experiment was conducted exploring participants' ability to mate and demate connectors in an evacuated glovebox. Independent variables were two EMU glove-sizes, five connector size groups, and seven connector types. Significant differences in performance times and heart rate changes during mate and demate operations were found between EMU glove sizes, among connector types, and connector sizes. Subjective assessments of connectors were collected from participants with a usability questionnaire. The data were used to derive design recommendations for a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) recommended EMU-compatible electrical connector.
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