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Publication AbstractsThe "Space CycleTM" self powered human centrifuge: a proposed countermeasure for prolonged human spaceflightKreitenberg A, Baldwin KM, Bagian JP, Cotton S, Witmer J, Caiozzo VJAviat Space Environ Med 1998; 69:66-72 AbstractThe Self-Powered Human Centrifuge, or Space CycleTM, is a counter-measure to the adverse physiologic effects of prolonged human exposure to space flight microgravity. This unique device simultaneously provides exercise, impact loading and gravity analogous acceleration to emulate conditions on Earth. One or two crew members pedal themselves about a shaft mounted to the spacecraft located "above" their heads. This creates a short arm centrifuge with a head-to-toe acceleration orientation. The potential advantages of the Space CycleTM include: a) reversal of cephalad fluid shift, minimizing post flight orthostatic intolerance; b) pedaling to maintain muscular and cardiovascular fitness; and c) enhancement of skeletal homeostasis by impact loading with a pedal-crank mounted cam and frame mounted resistive device. Other anticipated advantages include generation of usable electricity, physiologic monitoring and a means of mass measurement. Motion sickness is controlled with restraints and virtual reality headsets. The device is compatible with International Space Station dimensional constraints.
Information on subscribing, and on obtaining copies of an article or of an entire issue. Table of Contents for Volume 69, Number 1 of the ASEM journal.
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