Optimization of Manned Orbital Satellite Vehicle Design With Respect to Artificial Gravity
Abstract
A design envelope is established as the result of a human factors analysis of the artificial gravity environment peculiar to rotating space vehicles. The envelope is prescribed by: an upper limit on vehicle angular velocity of 0.4 radian/second to minimize the occurrence of ''canal sickness''; a basic upper limit on artificial gravity of 1 g; and a basic lower limit on artificial gravity of 0.2 g as the lowest value of g at which man can walk unaided. Both g-limits are modified to compensate for Coriolis forces which cause variation in g-level for tangential walking inside the rotating vehicle. An upper limit on vehicle radius of 180 feet is established on the basis of engineering practicality. The optimum vehicle configuration is established as a Modified Axially Expanded Dumbbell, characterized by a single, cylindrical, living-working compartment oriented parallel to the spin axis, counterbalanced by other vehicle components. The configuration is illustrated in the conceptual Pseudo-Geogravitational Vehicle, which has a radius of 180 feet and an operational angular velocity of 0.4 radian/second to produce 0.9 g in the living-working compartment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0277446
Entities
People
- Benjamin J. Loret
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology