Project update:

The Aouda caution and warning system (CWS) has been outlined in a number of previous posts, and we’re happy to report that progress is still being made! Anna Nelson’s internship came to an end a number of weeks ago, so Drew and I are back to being a duo (although we get a lot of help). A lot of focus, lately, has been on writing and polishing our dissertations as next Thursday (August 25^th) marks the submission deadline.

At this point, we have designed the ‘final’ versions of the following algorithms:

• Helmet CO₂
• Helmet O₂
• Core temperature
• Humidity
• Peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
• Respiratory rate
• Heart rate
• Aouda autonomous fan speed reduction

These final algorithms are still subject to a lot of testing and refinement, but they are final with regards to our submitted dissertations. Unfortunately, they cannot be shown here as our plan is to submit a hybrid version of our two dissertations for publication. Stay tuned!

The open Aouda.X helmet, with the ventilation outlet (1) and CO2/O2 (2) sensors labelled. This is an important consideration in CWS development as the nature of the sensor data output affects gas concentration thresholds, and algorithm design (c) OeWF

The ‘coding week’ is in full swing here in Innsbruck, and the office is a buzzing hive of activity. Unfortunately, the packed schedule of the programmers means that the CWS algorithm pseudocode could not be coded for implementation into Aouda this time around. It remains a priority, however, and this should be completed by the end of the year. When this happens, we can start debugging and thoroughly testing the algorithms. Hopefully we’ll all see the system in action in near-future simulation missions.

Recent Activities:

The most noteworthy recent happening was the Introduction to Spacesuit Systems course we ran at the end of July. The course attracted a large number of interesting people, including analogue students, engineers, analogue astronauts, and a real astronaut candidate! A lot of interesting topics were covered and a lot of fascinating discussions were had. The highlight, as noted by many, has to be the mini ‘simulation mission’ conducted in the suit lab on the final day. This allowed us to get a small taste of what it’s like to be involved in an analogue mission, and left many thirsty for more. A fantastic way to end a good weekend!

Me (middle) getting assistance suiting up for the mini simulation mission (c) OeWF

Parting words:

Drew and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who’s helped us accomplish what we have in our time here. We’ve had a wonderful time, met a lot of talented people, and learned a great deal. See you all soon!