TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTING THE SPACE CYCLE PROJECT

Extensive technology and machining provide the means for conducting physiological and mechanical measurements while riding the Space Cycle. The following provides a brief overview of the hardware, software, and machining that are used to support the efforts of the research team.

HARDWARE:

   1. Pedar-X Telemetry System: This system is used to make measurements of foot forces while subjects are exposed to hypergravity and performing squats. By monitoring foot forces while performing squats on the Space Cycle, the magnitude of hypergravity can be adjusted to produce foot forces similar to that seen while performing 10 RPM sets of squats in a normal 1 g environment. More detail about the Pedar System can be found at www.pedar.com.

   2. Konigsberg 8-Channel EMG Telemetry System: This system is used to measure the degree and duration of muscle activation using EMG analyses. We are currently focusing on so-called antigravity muscles like those of the spine and lower leg.

   3. Xbow (CrossBow) LP Series Triaxial Accelerometers: These accelerometers are used at key sites on the Space Cycle to monitor local acceleration in the x, y, and z-axes. The physics of the Space Cycle become quite complex when subjects perform squats under hypergravity conditions. The accelerometers allow us to better understand the dynamics of squat exercise. More detail about the Xbow accelerometers can be found at www.xbow.com.

   4. Keithley KUSB-3102 Multifunction Data Acquisition Module: This USB DAQ board is used to collect data from accelerometers, torquemeter, and centrifuge RPM indicators. Data is then displayed by the on-board computers. More information about this DAQ board can be found at www.keithley.com.

   5. Canon Optura 400 Digital Camcorder: The camcorders are used to film subjects on the Space Cycle, and the output of the camcorder is synced with foot force, EMG, and goniometry data. Data on this camcorder can be found at www.consumer.usa.canon.

   6. T-Series Sony Vaio Notebook Computer: The Sony Vaio Notebook is used as the on-board computer. The Keithley KUSB-3102 board connects to the Sony Vaio Notebook and data is displayed, providing the riders with information about workrate, crank torque, centrifuge RPM, pedal RPM, and acceleration in the x, y, and z axes. Data input, output, and display is controlled using LabView software. More information about the Sony Vaio Notebook can be found at www.sony.com.

   7. Sensor Medics Vmax ST Breath-by-Breath Telemetry System: This system can be used to make measurements of oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide output, and ventilation via telemetry. More information on this system can be found at www.sensormedics.com.

SOFTWARE:

1. RunTechnologies DataPac 2K2 Data Acquisition System: This software is used for a wide array of analyses, including EMG data. The software also contains a special module for synchronizing video and EMG output. More details about this software system can be found at www.runtech.com.

2. LabView Development Software: LabView is used for control of signal acquisition, measurement analysis, and graphical output of torquemeter data, accelerometers, and RPM. More information about LabView can be found at www.ni.com.

MANUFACTURING AND MACHINING:

All hardware manufacturing is performed by the Machine Shop of the School of Biological Sciences at U. C. Irvine. Machining is performed by Rudy Limburg (Machine Shop Supervisor) and Steve ***. Dr. Caiozzo has worked with Rudy and Steve on a number of projects for the past 20 years, and many outside universities have called upon their expertise and outstanding skills. Mr. Limburg can be contacted at:

B20 Steinhaus Hall
Phone: 824-6994
E-Mail: ralimbur@uci.edu