Sharp-edge Handheld Identifier and Remover in Low-gravity Extravehicular Environments

摘要

One of the most significant problems astronauts face during Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) is the hazard posed by sharp edges on the International Space Station (ISS) handrails created by space debris. Tears in EVA gloves due to sharp edges risk suit depressurization and astronaut injury, and may warrant an early termination of the EVA altogether. The current method for detecting and removing these sharp edges is inadequate as it relies primarily on visual cues and renders affected handrails unusable. In this paper, we present the design of SHIRLEE, a Sharp-edge Handheld Identifier and Remover in Low-gravity Extravehicular Environments. SHIRLEE is an entirely mechanical device for detecting and removing sharp edges specifically tailored to EVA handrails. Using customized detection bars that snap outward when caught on a sharp edge, SHIRLEE reshapes the hazardous edge with a ceramic steel smoothing stone. Results from testing in a microgravity environment at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) validated the effectiveness of SHIRLEE's detection and removal methods. In addition, during testing, NASA divers praised SHIRLEE's ergonomic design, simplicity, and modularity. These qualities make this tool advantageous over the current methods used for sharp-edge detection and removal.