23 November 2009, Aarhus - In a bid to scientifically
evaluate the efficacy of various training aids and astronaut workout methods,
the European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a contract with Danish smart textile
specialist, Ohmatex to develop and test an intelligent sock device to map the
electrical and metabolic activity in leg muscles.
The contract, for 199,810 Euro is for an 18 month project to
develop and integrate near-infrared sensors and textile based EMG electrodes in
a specially manufactured sock which will be verified and tested at the Aarhus
University Research Unit for Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics. The textile
based EMG sensors could be either integrated into to the sock using hosiery or
flat knitting technology and the near infra-red sensors are likely to be moulded
onto the sock. Ohmatex will use its textiles sensors experience to evaluate the
best solutions.
It is 40 years since man first landed on the moon and since
that first mission a range of initiatives have been launched to minimize the
muscle loss suffered by astronauts in near zero gravity conditions. Currently,
both the Chinese and NASA are planning new missions in manned space flight;
with the Constellation programme’s new rocket Ares designed to put people into
orbit and beyond, and the Orion capsule designed for 210 day moon missions. Ohmatex
says it is highly relevant therefore that ESA now will investigate technology
that will pave the way for monitoring and preserving human health during
prolonged stays in space.
Ohmatex says that this project is a continuation of work
done in other commercial and EU development projects, where the company is
known for its expertise in integrating electronics components in textiles. Some
of the company’s latest projects include the Safe@Sea project, which started
under the FP7 programme on 1st October 2009 and which focuses on the development
of new materials and integration of electronic functions in protective clothing
for professional fishermen.
“It is very
encouraging that ESA is investing in intelligent textile development, and
thereby are one of the locomotives to drive technological developments in this
field. We hope that this will be a breakthrough for Ohmatex in entering the
space field, where our niche expertise has many applications”, commented
Ohmatex Director Christian Dalsgaard. Mr Dalsgaard adds that the challenge for
2010 will be for Ohmatex to employ new staff to meet obligations in coming
projects.
