MDS - Multifunctional Dynamometer for Application in Space

In the project MDS - Multifunctional Dynamometer for Application in Space - the Institute for Engineering Design and Logistics Engineering (IKL) of the Vienna University of Technology, the Centre for Sports Sciences and University Sports (ZSU) of the University of Vienna and the Institute of Biomedical Problems (IBMP) of the Russian Academy of Sciences develop a training and diagnostic device for an application in space.

This project was motivated by the excellent results of the cooperation during the "Motomir" project, which started in 1991 and also based on the knowledge collected in these experiments.

The new concept is orientated on a variety of different resistance exercises in combination with the rowing exercise as a training option for the cardiovascular system. The training-force is produced by an electric motor and is linked to a training-bar with two ropes. This kind of concept facilitates to implement various training-exercises, which activate many different and large muscle chains. Thus, a time-saving and intensive training for the whole body can be achieved.

In addition to the free movement exercises a linear and rotational guiding system is included to offer the opportunity for exact and repeatable diagnostics conditions to gather exact information about the physical condition of the user. This concept was presented to the Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences and refined for an application in the isolation project “MARS 500” at IBMP in Moscow and on the ISS.

During the period of ASAP 5 (2007–2009), two prototypes of the multifunctional training device were designed and built. One of the prototypes has already been used in a 105-day-test of the isolation project "Mars 500".

The intended participation of the MDS in the 520-day-isolation of "MARS 500" project offers a unique possibility to test the long-term feasibility gathering valuable information on the topic. Our partners from the IBMP have once more expressed their interest in the use of the MDS on the ISS. Furthermore, an application of the MDS in the field of rehabilitation is planned.

Coordinator

Vienna University of Technology, Institute for Engineering Design and Logistics Engineering, Machine Design and Rehabilitation Engineering Division - Prof. Thomas Angeli

Partners

• University of Vienna, Centre for Sports Sciences and University Sports - Prof. Norbert Bachl
• Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Problems - Prof. Inessa B. Kozlovskaya

Vienna University of Technology
Institute for Engineering Design and Logistics Engineering
Machine Design and Rehabilitation Engineering Division
Prof. Thomas Angeli
Getreidemarkt 9 / 307-3
A-1060 Vienna
Tel.: +43 (1) 58801 30620
E-mail: thomas.angeli@tuwien.ac.at
Web: www.ikl.tuwien.ac.at/mel