[abstract] IN SUIT DOPPLER SYSTEM FOR THE EVA RISK MITIGATION EXPERIMENT

Abstract

BACKGROUND: TSI has devoted much research into the field of Doppler ultrasonic intravascular bubble detection systems since the early 1980's. In this paper the authors describe the In-suit Doppler system (ISD) that has been developed and manufactured for KRUG Life Sciences/National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The ISD was designed to monitor and record blood flow sounds from the pulmonary. The blood flow sounds are available in both audio and graphical form which provides valuable technical information during prebreathe and EVA period for the astronauts. As the ISD was the first autonomous unit ever to be placed inside the space suit, the development of this unit brought new and exciting challenges, which included miniaturization of modules, safety in a 100 percent oxygen atmosphere and minimize power consumption. These issues are explained in this paper. RESULTS: This paper provides case studies with various conditions. Results will be presented in a graphical format. Audio format will also be presented at the conference. Transducer placement, software and other issues will be discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Results show that the ISD provides sound technical information on intravascular bubbles. With minimal training, the ISD can be used in an efficient and simple manner.