Teleoperators are key components of future space exploration missions. As the use of teleoperators and the length of time people operate them increases, it has become necessary to evaluate the physiological and ergonomic parameters of the system. This project addresses this need by modeling the human musculoskeletal (m-s) system. The motion of the limbs and the muscle and joint reaction forces required to produce the teleoperator motion and overcome its feedback forces are included. The model will be used to establish and verify representations for physiological performance degradation due to pain and exhaustion and to suggest optimal positions to extend the operator's performance. Phase I of this project will be concerned with the development of a general modeling procedure for the human m-s system and assess its application in the evaluation of human performance of teleoperators.This model would provide teleoperators with better ergonomic design and lower cost of design, more effective designs of the work place for manual labor jobs, and improved artificial joint designs.biomechanics, musculoskeletal systems, robotics, teleoperators, teleroboticsSTATUS: Phase I Only
