Ka Chun Chow, Anna Dondini, Nuño Gonzàlez Rebaque,
Elisa Melodia, Niccolò Maria Oliva, Elena Valle, Zihan Xie
MOD-344
is an inclusive system of products to stabilize astronauts and parastronauts
who perform tasks over long time spans.
The
concept includes a 3D-printable nylon prosthetic and an addon for the
International Space Station’s system of handrails. These two elements fit
together, producing a soft mechanism that allows steadiness but also
unprecedented freedom of movement.
While
the referenced users are lower limb amputees, the goal is to radically redefine
everyone’s dexterity in microgravity.
MOD-344
is a minimal, yet effective solution within everyone's reach.
The simplicity of this assembly makes it easily 3d-printed and repaired, and its light, shell-like structure allows for it to be worn both by parastronauts and regular astronauts.
MOD-344 was, however, designed in a conscious attempt to disrupt the cold, alien language of prosthetics, and introduces playful shapes and colors to the picture.
The
use of MOD-344 will also prevent cadets from developing feet soreness, caused
by the need to constantly maintain grip on the handrails throughout their
workday.
MOD-344
introduces new body movements in the zero-gravity environment
of the ISS.
