Protective garment

Abstract

Embodiments provide a protective garment system configured to protect an occupant in an extreme environment. The system may include a base layer worn on the occupant, the base layer configured to thermally condition the occupant, the base layer including a biomarker sensor network for monitoring one or more biomarkers of the occupant. The system may also include an outer layer worn over the base layer, the outer layer including an exoskeleton structure sized to enable an occupant to fit within the exoskeleton structure and an exoskeleton cover covering and secured to the exoskeleton structure. The system may also include a data storage system that may store data generated by the biomarker sensor network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a protective clothing system for protecting occupants in extreme environments (e.g., in outer space). Background Art

[0002] Protection systems are used to enable humans to operate in increasingly harsh environments, such as in response to contested chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threat environments on land and in space. When individuals need to operate in these CBRN environments, protective clothing is used to protect the occupants.

[0003] The type of environment and the tasks to be performed in these environments can determine the type of protective clothing. For tasks that require high physical exertion, generally, the ability of the occupant to perform these tasks is limited by the protective clothing. For example, protective clothing that allows the occupant to have a large range of motion is often bulky and heavy, or can only provide limited protection. This is not ideal.

[0004] The requirements for spacesuits often pose specialized problems. The environment in outer space requires life support systems, as well as protection against extreme temperatures and radiation. These factors often result in spacesuits being bulky and heavy, requiring the occupant to consume too much energy during use. This energy consumption limits these spacesuits to short-term operations.

[0005] In addition, to date, spacesuits have been customized to fit the needs of the occupants and designed based on the occupants' feedback on overall fit and wearing comfort. This process limits the mass production of spacesuits, and the produced spacesuits are not always a good fit. As the number of people going to space and requiring spacesuits will increase significantly in the next decade, a new approach to developing spacesuits is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Embodiments provide a protective clothing system configured to protect an occupant in an extreme environment, the system including:

[0007] A base layer worn on the occupant, the base layer being configured to thermally regulate the occupant and including a biomarker sensor network for monitoring one or more biomarkers of the occupant;

[0008] An outer layer worn over the base layer, the outer layer including an exoskeleton structure and an exoskeleton covering, the exoskeleton structure being sized such that the occupant can fit within the exoskeleton structure, and the exoskeleton covering covering and securing to the exoskeleton structure; and

[0009] A data storage system capable of storing data generated by the biomarker sensor network.

[0010] Biomarkers of the occupant may include musculoskeletal biomarkers. The biomarker sensor network may include one or more biomarker sensors, with one or more biomarker sensors placed near the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant, or at locations associated with the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant. In use, one or more sensors may non-invasively monitor the biomarkers. The protective clothing system may include a plurality of biomarker sensors distributed on the base layer such that the biomarker sensors monitor one or more of the occupant's shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, heart, and forearms in use.

[0011] The protective clothing system may further include a life support system. The life support system may include a temperature regulation system that is capable of operating with the base layer to regulate the body temperature of the occupant. The temperature regulation system may include a thermoregulatory fluid, a heat exchanger in thermal communication with the thermoregulatory fluid, and a pump for pumping the thermoregulatory fluid. The base layer may include a network of fluid channels through which the thermoregulatory fluid can flow to regulate the body temperature of the occupant. The base layer may include a first layer and a second layer. The network of fluid channels may be positioned between the first layer and the second layer.

[0012] The life support system may include an air management system that manages the air environment located within the outer layer, in which the occupant is located when using the protective clothing system. The air management system may be configured to maintain the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the air environment within predefined conditions. The life support system may include vents for ventilating the air environment located within the outer layer. The life support system may include a battery pack for powering at least the life support system, and a battery management interface for managing the battery pack. The battery pack may be replaceable. The battery management interface may include physical and / or digital inputs and controls.

[0013] The base layer may be formed of a breathable material having four-way stretch properties. The biomarker sensor network may be wirelessly connected to the Internet of Things network. The Internet of Things may store or rely on data in a data storage system. The base layer may include a compression layer configured to apply pressure to the occupant. The compression layer may be formed of a stretchable material covering the outer surface of the base layer. The compression layer may cover the entire outer surface of the base layer. The compression layer may be fixed to the base layer.

[0014] The exoskeleton covering may include multiple layers of fabric. The multiple layers of fabric may include one or more fabrics that are fireproof, flame-retardant, bulletproof, self-healing, and / or radiation-resistant. The exoskeleton covering may be configured to operate within a temperature range of -270°C to 1260°C. The exoskeleton covering may be flame-retardant and bulletproof. The exoskeleton covering may have stretchable bellows-like compositions or materials at locations near or at the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and ankles of the occupant.

[0015] The exoskeleton structure may include a torso portion pivotally connected to a leg portion. The torso portion may extend downward from the shoulders of the occupant to the hips in use. The leg portion may extend downward from the hips in use. The torso portion may include a flexible spine that branches into a wishbone at a lower portion of the flexible spine. The wishbone may be bent such that it extends downward and around to attach to opposite sides of the leg portion. The flexible spine may also branch into a shoulder platform at an upper portion of the flexible spine. The shoulder platform may extend laterally to fit against the rear side of the shoulders of the occupant in use. The leg portion may include a hip portion that extends around the hips, and the hip portion includes: two leg holes capable of accommodating the respective legs of the occupant; and limb portions extending along each outer side of the hip portion. Each limb portion may include a hinged portion located at the knee region of the occupant. The limb portion may include one or more circular leg guards capable of accommodating the legs of the occupant.

[0016] The outer layer may include a biomechanical sensor network configured to record data related to the movement of the outer layer to monitor the energy usage of the occupant and the wear of the outer layer. The data generated by the biomechanical sensor network may be received by and stored in a data storage system.

[0017] The protective clothing system may further include a helmet capable of being connected to the outer layer and the data storage system. The helmet may include cognitive tracking sensors capable of tracking the cognitive functions of the occupant. The helmet may include a display that provides a means for communicating information associated with the protective clothing system to the occupant, the information including information from the biomarker sensor network and the data storage system.

[0018] The protective clothing system may further include boots. The boots may include boot temperature sensors for measuring the temperature of the feet of the occupant accommodated in the boots and / or the temperature of the environment outside the boots in use. The boots may include boot pressure sensors for measuring the pressure exerted by the occupant and / or the protective clothing system downward onto the surface on which the occupant stands. The data generated by the boot temperature sensors and the boot pressure sensors may be received by and stored in a data storage system.

[0019] In an embodiment, the protective clothing system can be a spacesuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non - limiting drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the base layer.

[0022] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the base layer.

[0023] Figure 3 is a schematic cross - sectional view of an embodiment of the base layer.

[0024] Figure 4 is a schematic cross - sectional view of an embodiment of the base layer.

[0025] Figure 5 is a schematic cross - sectional view of an embodiment of the base layer.

[0026] Figure 6 is a schematic cross - sectional view of an embodiment of the base layer.

[0027] Figure 7a shows a front perspective view of an exoskeleton structure mounted on an occupant wearing the base layer.

[0028] Figure 7b is Figure 7a a rear perspective view of the exoskeleton structure in

[0029] Figure 8 is a front view of an embodiment of the outer layer.

[0030] Figure 9 is an embodiment of the architecture of the protective clothing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Embodiments relate to a protective clothing system configured to protect an occupant in extreme environments. In the following description, the protective clothing system is embodied as a spacesuit. However, the present disclosure is not limited to spacesuits, and the protective clothing system can be used on land or in water for activities related to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) environments, and can be used in real scenarios or for training or simulation.

[0032] Now refer to Figure 1, the protective clothing system takes the form of a space suit 10. The space suit 10 has a base layer in the form of a sensor suit 11. The sensor suit 11 is worn by the occupant 13 and is sized to fit closely to the occupant 13. The sensor suit 11 includes a garment 12 having an arm portion 14, a torso portion 15, and a leg portion 16. The functions of the sensor suit 11 include thermal regulation of the occupant and biomarker monitoring. Thermal regulation is achieved by incorporating a network of fluid channels into the sensor suit 11. In use, temperature-regulating fluid can flow through the fluid channels to regulate the body temperature of the occupant 13.

[0033] As Figure 3 shown, the fluid channels can take the form of tubes 30, which are arranged to form a pipe network covering various regions of the sensor suit 11. In an embodiment, the tubes 30 are positioned or clamped between a first garment layer 12a and a second garment layer 12b of the garment 12. In an embodiment, the tubes 30 are sewn into the garment 12 by sewing the first garment layer 12a and the second garment layer 12b together. In an embodiment, and as Figure 4 shown, the first garment layer 12a and the second garment layer 12b are sewn together to form a hollow channel 32, and the tubes 30 are positioned within the hollow channel 32. In an embodiment, and as Figure 5 shown, the first garment layer 12a and the second garment layer 12b are connected together via contact points or weld points 34 that define a hollow portion 30a through which the temperature-regulating fluid can flow. Alternatively, the tubes can pass through the hollow portion 30a (not shown). The weld points 34 are shown as small contact points in Figure 5 but the weld points 34 can be extended regions similar to the arrangement shown in Figure 4 . In an embodiment, the fluid channels (such as the tubes 30) are positioned on the outer surface of the garment 12. Regardless of the form the fluid channels take, they can circulate the temperature-regulating fluid through the garment 12 to regulate the body temperature of the occupant 13. In an embodiment, the tubes 30 are fixed to one side of the garment 12, such as the inner or outer side. This arrangement can be used as a supplement or alternative to being positioned between the garment layers.

[0034] In an embodiment, the pipe network is positioned to cover the entire garment 12. In an embodiment, the pipe network covers selected regions of the garment 12. For example, the pipe network can be positioned over the regions of the occupant that have the greatest impact on thermal regulation. The positioning of the pipe network and the orientation of the tubes 30 in the pipe network can be arranged to maximize the flexibility and mobility of the garment 12.

[0035] The sensor suit 11 also has a biomarker sensor network incorporated into the garment 12. The biomarker sensor network is configured to monitor one or more biomarkers of the occupant 13 during use of the spacesuit 10. The biomarker sensor network includes one or more biomarker sensors that are placed near or on the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant 13, or at locations associated with the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant 13. For example, as Figure 1 shown, the biomarker sensor network includes a shoulder sensor 18, an upper arm sensor 22, a chest and heart sensor 20, an abdominal sensor 24, a thigh sensor 26, and a knee sensor 28. The biomarker sensor network may also include an ankle sensor. In an embodiment, one or more of the sensors 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 non-invasively monitor the biomarkers of the occupant 13. For example, the sensors 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 may contact the skin of the occupant 13 or be placed near the skin of the occupant 13. The sensors 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 are Figure 1 shown as occupying different regions of the garment 12. One large sensor may occupy each region, or multiple sensors may work together to form each sensor region or sensor array. For example, the shoulder sensor 18 may include separate sensors for monitoring specific muscles of the shoulder, such as the trapezius, pectoralis major, deltoid, and the upper regions of the long and short biceps.

[0036] In an embodiment, the biomarkers include musculoskeletal biomarkers. For example, monitoring musculoskeletal biomarkers can help monitor the amount of energy being used by the muscles of the occupant 13, and the location where that energy is being used, such as the abdomen and arms. The biomarkers may also include physiological biomarkers, such as blood O2 level, blood pressure, and heart rate. The biomarkers may also include excretory products present in sweat.

[0037] The garment 12 may also include pressure sensors to monitor the pressure applied to the skin of the occupant 13. For example, when the occupant 13 moves and presses against an object (such as a component of the exoskeletal structure 102 (referred to herein as "exoskeleton 102")), the pressure sensors can detect the pressure applied to the occupant 13 by that object. The pressure sensors may form part of the biomarker sensor network.

[0038] The sensors of the biomarker sensor network may be positioned on the skin side of the garment 12. Additionally or alternatively, the sensors of the biomarker sensor network may be embedded within the garment 12, such as being positioned between a first layer 12a and a second layer 12b, similar to the tube 30. The biomarker sensors of the biomarker sensor network may also be positioned on the outer surface of the garment 12.

[0039] Figure 6 An embodiment of the sensor suit 11a is shown, Figure 6 showing a region associated with the shoulder of the occupant 13. The sensor suit 11a has a garment 12, in which the tube 30 is positioned between a first layer 12a and a second layer 12b. The first shoulder sensor 18a is also positioned between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b, while the second shoulder sensor 18b is positioned on the skin side of the second layer 12b such that the second shoulder sensor 18b directly contacts the skin 15 of the occupant 13 when the garment 12 is in use. Figure 6 The arrangement of the sensor suit 11a depicted is merely exemplary, and the relative positions of the sensors 18a and 18b and the tube are for illustrative purposes only and can be applied to other sensors. One of the first shoulder sensor 18a and the second shoulder sensor 18b can be omitted from the sensor suit 11a.

[0040] To prevent restricting the movement of the occupant 13, the garment 12 is formed of a four-way stretch material. In an embodiment, the garment 12 is formed of or includes a breathable material to provide comfort to the occupant 13 when the garment 12 is in use.

[0041] In an embodiment, the sensor suit 11 / 11a includes a compression layer 50, which is best seen in Figure 2 . The compression layer 50 is formed of a stretchable material having an arm portion 52, a torso portion 54, a leg portion 56, and a foot portion 58, and is positioned over the garment 12. In an embodiment, the arm portion 52, the torso portion 54, the leg portion 56, and the foot portion 58 are integral. The compression layer 50 is configured to apply pressure to the occupant 13 to help counteract the effects of microgravity. As Figure 2 shown, in an embodiment, the compression layer 50 covers the entire outer surface of the sensor suit 11. However, the compression layer 50 can also cover only a portion of the garment 12 (not shown). In an embodiment, the compression layer 50 is fixed or fastened to the garment 12, for example, using an adhesive, by welding, and / or by stitching. The compression layer 50 can be integrally formed with the garment 12. Integrally forming or fixing the compression layer 50 to the garment 12 can make it easier for the occupant to don the compression layer 50. The inner side of the compression layer 50 and / or the sensor suit 11 / 11a can be equipped with an anti-friction coating to assist the occupant 13 in donning and doffing the compression layer 50 and / or the sensor suit 11 / 11a. In applications where the effects of microgravity need not be considered, the compression layer 50 may not be required. Thus, the compression layer is not required in all embodiments. In an embodiment, the compression layer 50 is a separate item from the sensor suit 11 and is worn over the sensor suit 11.

[0042] The space suit 10 further includes an outer layer 100, which will be worn over the sensor suit 11. The outer layer 100 includes an exoskeleton 102, asFigure 7a and Figure 7b as shown. The outer layer 100 is sized such that the occupant 13 can fit within the exoskeleton 102. The exoskeleton 102 includes a torso portion 110 that extends from the shoulders of the occupant 13 to the hip region. The torso portion 110 includes a flexible spine 112 that, in use, is positioned adjacent to the upper spinal region of the occupant 13. The flexible spine 112 is articulated to allow the occupant 13 to move unimpeded during movements such as twisting about the spine and bending of the spine in the lateral and anterior-posterior directions. The flexible spine 112 is configured to support the weight transmitted downward through the flexible spine 112.

[0043] A shoulder platform 114 extends from the upper portion of the flexible spine 112. The shoulder platform 114 extends laterally so as to be positioned over the back or posterior side (dorsal) of the occupant 13. In an embodiment, the shoulder platform 114 extends laterally over the trapezius region of the occupant 13. In an embodiment, the shoulder platform 114 includes a deltoid protector 115 having an arm brace 116 that terminates in a cuff 118 extending from the deltoid protector 115. The deltoid protector 115 is articulated to allow the arms of the occupant 13 to move unimpeded. The arm brace 116 is also articulated around the elbow region of the occupant 13 to allow the arm to bend at the elbow. The cuff 118 may include a coupling mechanism that can engage with a glove 300 (see Figure 8 ). The torso portion 110 also has a wishbone 117 that branches out from the lower portion 121 of the flexible spine 112. The wishbone 117 curves downward and around the occupant 13 to connect to opposite sides of the legs 120 such that the ends of the wishbone are positioned in the hip region of the occupant 13.

[0044] Each of the flexible spine 112, shoulder platform 114, deltoid protector 115, arm brace 116, and cuff 118 can be separate, interchangeable components. This can be very useful when adjusting the size of the torso portion 110 for occupants of different body sizes. In this way, the torso portion 110 has a modular design where sub-components (such as the flexible spine 112, shoulder platform 114, deltoid protector 115, arm brace 116, and cuff 118) are replaced as needed.

[0045] The exoskeleton 102 also includes a leg portion 120 that extends downward from the hip region of the occupant 13 to the lower leg region 132. The lower leg region 132 may be positioned at the upper tibia position of the occupant 13. The upper part of the leg portion has a hip portion 124. The hip portion 124 includes two leg holes 126 that can accommodate the corresponding legs of the occupant 13. Corresponding limb portions 128 extend from each side of the hip portion 124. The limb portions 128 extend downward to the lower leg region 132. The limb portions 128 are equipped with a flexible portion or hinge point 130 that corresponds to the knee region of the occupant 13. The flexible or hinged portion 130 allows the occupant to bend their knees during use of the spacesuit 10. The limb portions 128 are also equipped with leg guards 134. In Figure 7a and Figure 7b In the illustrated embodiment, the leg guard 134 extends circumferentially around the leg of the occupant 13 during use. In other words, the leg guard 134 is circular. However, in an embodiment, the leg guard 134 only partially extends around the leg of the occupant 13.

[0046] The torso portion 110 and the leg portion 120 are pivotally connected to each other via a pivot joint 119. The pivot joint 119 allows the occupant to pivot back and forth around the hips. The pivot joint 119 may have limit stops to limit the range of motion, for example, to prevent the occupant 13 from overextending. To assist the mobility of the occupant 13, the wishbone 117 may be formed of an elastically deformable material. For example, the wishbone 117 may have a certain flexibility to allow the occupant to twist in the lower back region.

[0047] The torso portion 110 and the leg portion 120 are covered with an exoskeleton covering 136. The exoskeleton covering 136 may be formed of multiple layers of fabric. The type of fabric used in the exoskeleton covering 136 generally depends on the intended use of the protective clothing system, but in the case of the spacesuit 10, it will include materials suitable for the space environment. For example, the multiple layers of fabric may include one or more fireproof, flame retardant, bulletproof, self-healing, and / or radiation-resistant fabrics. The multiple layers of fabric may be arranged in any order. However, more wear-resistant materials are typically provided as the outer layer. The purpose of the exoskeleton covering 136 is to provide a barrier between the occupant and the external environment. In the case of the spacesuit 10, the exoskeleton covering 136 protects the occupant 13 from extreme high and low temperatures, fast-moving micrometeoroids in space, and (if necessary) space radiation. In an embodiment, the exoskeleton covering 136 is configured to operate in a temperature range of -270°C to 1260°C.

[0048] To accommodate the movement of the occupant 13, in an embodiment, the exoskeleton covering 136 includes stretchable material, bellows-like material, and / or bellows formed in the exoskeleton covering 136 in areas that experience movement, such as the shoulders, elbows, and knees. Since these areas are subject to more wear, these stretchable materials, bellows-like materials, and / or bellows formed in the exoskeleton covering 136 can be equipped with protective covers, such as replaceable wear-resistant plates.

[0049] The outer layer 100 includes a biomechanical sensor network configured to record data related to the movement of the outer layer to monitor the energy usage of the occupant and the wear of the outer layer. For example, any movement of the limbs of the occupant 13 can be recorded by the biomechanical sensor network (such as a biomechanical sensor network located within or on the exoskeleton 102) to monitor the energy consumption of such movement. The outer layer 100 can also include sensors for monitoring radiation and temperature.

[0050] The spacesuit 10 also has boots 150 for each foot. As Figure 7b shown, each boot 150 has a boot frame 152 that engages with the calf region 132. For example, the calf region 132 can have a coupling mechanism that can engage with the upper part of the boot frame 152. The boot locking mechanism can allow the boots 150 to be replaced as needed, for example, when larger boots are needed to accommodate the larger feet of different occupants.

[0051] The spacesuit 10 also has a helmet 200, as Figure 8 shown. In use, the helmet 200 is connected or engaged with the outer layer 100. For example, the lower edge of the helmet 200 can be locked in a helmet locking mechanism that is located on the torso portion 110 and / or on the exoskeleton covering 136 at the neck region of the occupant. The helmet has a face shield 210 through which the occupant 13 can see. The helmet 200 has a display that can display information associated with the spacesuit 10. The display can be integrated into the face shield 210. The helmet 200 is also equipped with cognitive tracking sensors that can track the cognitive functions of the occupant 13 when using the spacesuit 10. The cognitive tracking sensors can include one or more cognitive tracking sensors.

[0052] The boots 150 can have one or more boot pressure sensors to monitor the pressure exerted by the occupant 13 and / or the spacesuit 10 downward onto the surface on which the occupant 13 stands. The boots can also have one or more boot temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of the occupant's feet and / or the ambient temperature outside the boots 150. The data generated by the boot temperature sensors and / or the boot pressure sensors can be received by the data storage system and stored in the data storage system. The spacesuit 10 also has a life support system 400. The life support system is in Figure 8is generally shown as being located at the chest position of the spacesuit 10. This location is merely exemplary, and the life support system 400 can be located on the back of the spacesuit 10 and / or incorporated into the outer layer 100. The life support system can also include features such as sensors that are remote from the external unit. The life support system 400 is configured to provide appropriate conditions for the occupant 13 to perform their duties.

[0053] In an embodiment, the life support system 400 includes a temperature regulator 412 (see Figure 9 ), such as a temperature regulation system. In one form, the temperature regulator 412 includes an air circulator that can recirculate heated or cooled air around the interior of the spacesuit 10 in which the occupant 13 resides. In an embodiment, the temperature regulator 412 can operate with the sensor suit 11 to regulate the body temperature of the occupant 13. In such embodiments, the temperature regulator 412 includes a heat regulating fluid, a heat exchanger in thermal communication with the heat regulating fluid, and a pump for pumping the heat regulating fluid.

[0054] The heat regulating fluid can be pumped through tubes 30 in the garment 12. For example, a fluid passage in the form of tubes 30 can have an input line and an output line to allow the heat regulating fluid to continuously flow through and around the garment 12. The occupant 13 will typically connect the input line and the output line to the temperature regulator 412 when putting on the spacesuit 10.

[0055] The life support system 400 also includes an air management system, which is described as being in the form of an O2 / CO2 regulator 410. Although the air management system is specifically described in terms of O2 and CO2, the air management system can also include other gases and compounds that may be present and generated during the presence of the occupant 13 in a closed environment. For example, the air management system can also monitor and purify gases such as carbon monoxide and maintain an appropriate humidity level within the spacesuit 10. The O2 / CO2 regulator 410 can have an oxygen supply and an oxygen regeneration unit, and the oxygen regeneration unit can include a purifier for removing carbon dioxide. The O2 / CO2 regulator 410 is used to maintain an appropriate oxygen level in the environment within the spacesuit 10 based on predefined conditions. The air management system can also include fans and / or pumps to cause air to flow around the interior of the spacesuit 10 (where the occupant 13 will be located during use). The fans and pumps can help to evenly distribute the air within the spacesuit 10, for example, preventing local accumulation of carbon dioxide.

[0056] The life support system 400 can also include vents 416 that allow the environment within the spacesuit 10 to ventilate to the external environment. For example, if the humidity level or the internal pressure exceeds a predefined threshold, the vents can open to reduce the humidity level or the internal pressure to within the predefined threshold.

[0057] The life support system 400 may also include an external tracker 418. The purpose of the external tracker 418 is to track parameters outside the spacesuit 10. For example, the external parameters may include the temperature and pressure of the external environment, the rate of change of the external temperature and pressure, the position of the spacesuit 10, and so on.

[0058] The life support system 400 includes a battery or battery pack, which is used to power the components of the life support system 400 and the spacesuit 10. The term "battery" includes related components and functions, such as a battery management interface and a system for managing the battery pack. The battery may be replaceable or may be fixed within or on the life support system 400 and charged by an external power source.

[0059] Now reference will be made to Figure 9 the interoperability of the various components of the spacesuit 10. The base layer (i.e., the sensor suit 11), the outer layer 100, the boots 150, and the helmet 200 all have sensors that can monitor a series of markers and functions of the occupant 13 and the spacesuit 10. These sensors provide information that can be used by the life support system 400.

[0060] Starting with the sensor suit 11, the shoulder sensors 18, the upper arm sensors 22, the chest and heart sensors 20, the abdominal sensors 24, the thigh sensors 26, and the knee sensors 28 all provide a series of biomarker information related to the occupant 13. These biomarkers include the occupant's O2 level, the body temperature of the occupant 13, and the amount of energy used by the occupant 13 at any given time and (one or more) locations. The sensor suit 11 may also include air sensors, such as O2 / CO2 sensors, to detect the O2 / CO2 level in the environment within the spacesuit 10. The life support system 400 uses this information generated by the various sensors of the sensor suit 11 to control, for example, the O2 / CO2 regulator 410 and the temperature regulator 412. For example, if the carbon dioxide level in the environment within the spacesuit 10 exceeds a predefined threshold, a purifier or similar device may be activated to reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide. Similarly, if the body temperature of the occupant 13 falls outside a predefined temperature threshold, the temperature regulator 412 is activated to heat or cool the thermoregulatory fluid, and then the heated or cooled thermoregulatory fluid is pumped through the fluid channels (such as tubes 30) in the garment 12 to bring the body temperature of the occupant 13 back within the predefined temperature threshold.

[0061] The outer layer 100 has biomechanical sensors associated with the exoskeleton 110. The movement of the occupant 13 causes the exoskeleton 110 to move, and this movement can be recorded by the biomechanical sensors. The outer layer 100 may also have sensors that can detect radiation and temperature. This information can be fed into a data storage system and / or used by the life support system 400 to respond in a preemptive or reactive manner to maintain the occupant in a predefined operating state (e.g., temperature, O2 level, etc.).

[0062] The boots 150 have temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of the feet of the occupant 13. Similar to the temperature sensors used with the sensor suit 11, if the (one or more) boot temperature sensors detect that the temperature of the occupant's feet falls outside a predefined temperature threshold, the temperature regulator 412 is activated to heat or cool the thermal regulation fluid, and then the heated or cooled thermal regulation fluid is pumped through the boots 150 to bring the temperature of the occupant's feet back within the predefined temperature threshold. The predefined temperature threshold may vary depending on the location of the occupant. However, the predefined temperature threshold is related to maintaining the body temperature of the occupant at a suitable physiological condition (e.g., a body temperature of 37 °C).

[0063] The helmet 200 is equipped with sensors for monitoring cognitive functions. Such sensors can monitor the eye movements, pupil characteristics, and voice or speech patterns of the occupant 13. If the cognitive tracking sensors detect that the cognitive functions of the occupant 13 are outside predefined parameters, an alert or similar information can be provided on the helmet display 212. The data generated by the sensors for monitoring cognitive functions can also be used by the life support system 400. For example, drowsiness detected by the sensors for monitoring cognitive functions can be corrected by activating the O2 / CO2 regulator to increase the oxygen concentration within the spacesuit 10.

[0064] The sensors of each spacesuit 10 component (e.g., the sensor suit 11, the outer layer 100, the boots 150, and the helmet 200) can be controlled and operated independently of each other, such that the control of the sensors for each component is managed in a distributed manner for the spacesuit 10 components. The various sensors used in the sensor suit 11 can be wirelessly connected to an Internet of Things (IoT) network. The IoT network may also include medical sensors for capturing biomarkers (e.g., those provided on the sensor suit 11), as well as electromechanical sensors (e.g., those associated with the exoskeleton 102). The battery 414 can be used to power the IoT network and can also be used to power the control or operation of the different sensor networks of the different components of the spacesuit 10.

[0065] The spacesuit 10 also has a data storage system 500, which can store data generated by sensors of the components of the spacesuit, such as the biomarker sensor network of the sensor suit 11 and the cognitive tracking sensors of the helmet 200. The Internet of Things network is connected to the data storage system 500. When the spacesuit 10 is in use, various sensors generate data associated with various tasks. For example, the movement of the occupant 13 requires the contraction of the occupant's muscles, which can be detected by, for example, the biomarker sensor network. The same movement can also cause the exoskeleton 102 to move, which can be detected using the biomechanical sensor network. The data generated by such movements is stored in the data storage system 500 for subsequent analysis. For example, the movement of the exoskeleton 102 can be associated with the muscles used by the occupant 13 for the movement, and the analysis of the muscles used can help determine whether the occupant 13 is moving in the most efficient way. Similarly, monitoring muscle activation and correlating it with the movement of the exoskeleton 102 can be used to train the occupant to move correctly in the spacesuit 10. The data stored in the data storage system 500 can be accessed in real time via a wireless connection or can be downloaded and analyzed offline.

[0066] The spacesuit system 10 may also include a central control system 600. The central control system 600 can use the information stored in the data storage system 500 and / or the data directly generated by various sensors to control the life support system 400. In this way, the control system 600 plays a role in the telemetry of the spacesuit system 10, where various sensors of the spacesuit system 10 (such as the biomarker sensor network and the biomechanical sensors) act as individual telemetry devices. The control system 600 is shown as an independent component of the spacesuit system 10, but it can also be distributed among the various components of the spacesuit system 10. For example, the computing units associated with the sensor suit 11, the exoskeleton 102, the helmet 200, etc. can jointly form the control system 600. The control system 600 can be associated with or integrated into the life support system 400. The control system 600 can also receive user inputs, such as the user interface buttons on the outer covering 136 or voice commands that the helmet 200 can detect, and process these user inputs to control the spacesuit system 10.

[0067] The data stored on the data storage system can be used to track and monitor the use of the spacesuit 10 by the occupant 13. Machine learning, artificial intelligence, predictive analysis, etc. can be used to process the data in the data storage system. For example, if the temperature of the external environment of the spacesuit 10 changes rapidly, the life support system 400 can be adjusted in advance to ensure that the occupant operates efficiently. The data stored in the data storage system 500 can also be used to construct a digital spacesuit twin and training simulations.

[0068] In an embodiment, the spacesuit 10 provides a platform to assist in managing the human spaceflight life cycle through energy management, low-torque operation advantages, and bio-intelligence generation, thereby enabling astronaut performance intelligence.

[0069] In the following claims and the foregoing description, unless the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" or variations such as "comprises" or "having" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., specifying the presence of the stated features, but not excluding the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0070] It should be understood that if any prior art publication is cited herein, such citation does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or any other country.

[0071] Modifications and variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A protective clothing system configured to protect an occupant in an extreme environment, the system comprising: A base layer, for wearing on the occupant, the base layer being configured to thermoregulate the occupant, the base layer including a biomarker sensor network for monitoring one or more biomarkers of the occupant; An outer layer, for wearing over the base layer, the outer layer including an exoskeleton structure and an exoskeleton covering, the exoskeleton structure being sized such that the occupant can fit within the exoskeleton structure, and the exoskeleton covering covering and being fixed to the exoskeleton structure; And A data storage system, the data storage system being capable of storing data generated by the biomarker sensor network.

2. The protective clothing system according to claim 1, wherein, The biomarkers of the occupant include musculoskeletal biomarkers.

3. The protective clothing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The biomarker sensor network includes one or more biomarker sensors, the one or more biomarker sensors being placed near the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant, or at locations associated with the synovial joints, heart, and / or forearm of the occupant, wherein, in use, the one or more biomarker sensors non-invasively monitor the one or more biomarkers of the occupant.

4. The protective clothing system according to claim 3, comprising a plurality of biomarker sensors distributed on the base layer such that one or more of the biomarker sensors monitor one or more of the occupant's shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, heart, and forearms in use.

5. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a life support system.

6. The protective clothing system according to claim 5, wherein, The life support system includes a temperature regulation system, the temperature regulation system being capable of operating with the base layer to regulate the body temperature of the occupant.

7. The protective clothing system according to claim 6, wherein: The temperature regulation system includes a thermoregulation fluid, a heat exchanger in thermal communication with the thermoregulation fluid, and a pump for pumping the thermoregulation fluid; and The base layer includes a fluid channel network through which the thermoregulation fluid can flow to regulate the body temperature of the occupant.

8. The protective clothing system according to claim 7, wherein: The base layer includes a first layer and a second layer; and The fluid channel network is positioned between the first layer and the second layer.

9. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein, The life support system includes an air management system, the air management system managing the air environment located within the outer layer during use, the occupant being located within the air environment when using the protective suit system, the air management system being configured to maintain the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the air environment within predefined conditions.

10. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein, The life support system includes vents for ventilating the air environment located within the outer layer.

11. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein, The life support system includes a battery pack for powering at least the life support system, and a battery management interface for managing the battery pack.

12. The protective clothing system according to claim 11, wherein, The battery pack is replaceable.

13. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The base layer is formed of a breathable material having four-way stretch properties.

14. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The biomarker sensor network is wirelessly connected to an Internet of Things network.

15. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The base layer includes a compression layer configured to apply pressure to the occupant, the compression layer being formed of a stretchable material covering the outer surface of the base layer.

16. The protective clothing system according to claim 15, wherein, The compression layer covers the entire outer surface of the base layer.

17. The protective clothing system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, The compression layer is fixed to the base layer.

18. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The exoskeleton covering includes multiple layers of fabric, the multiple layers of fabric including one or more fabrics that are fireproof, flame retardant, bulletproof, self-healing, and / or radiation resistant.

19. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The exoskeleton covering is configured to operate within a temperature range of -270°C to 1260°C.

20. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The exoskeleton covering is flame retardant and bulletproof.

21. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The exoskeleton covering has a stretchable bellows-like composition or material at the locations of the occupant's shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and ankles.

22. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The exoskeleton structure includes a torso portion pivotally connected to a leg portion, the torso portion extending from the occupant's shoulders to the hips in use, and the leg portion extending downward from the hips in use.

23. The protective clothing system according to claim 22, wherein, The torso portion includes a flexible spine that branches into a wishbone at a lower portion of the flexible spine, the wishbone being curved such that it extends downward and around to attach to opposite sides of the leg portion.

24. The protective clothing system according to claim 22 or 23, wherein, The flexible spine also branches into a shoulder platform at an upper portion of the flexible spine, the shoulder platform extending laterally to fit against the rear side of the occupant's shoulders in use.

25. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein, The leg portion includes a hip portion that extends around the hips, the hip portion including: two leg holes capable of accommodating the respective legs of the occupant, and limb portions that extend downward along each outer side of the hip portion, wherein each limb portion includes a hinged portion located at the occupant's knee region.

26. The protective clothing system according to claim 25, wherein, The limb portions include one or more circular leg guards capable of accommodating the legs of the occupant.

27. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein, The outer layer includes a biomechanical sensor network configured to record data related to the movement of the outer layer to monitor the energy usage of the occupant and the wear condition of the outer layer, wherein the data generated by the biomechanical sensor network can be received by the data storage system and stored in the data storage system.

28. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, further comprising: A helmet that can be connected to the outer layer and the data storage system.

29. The protective clothing system according to claim 28, wherein, The helmet includes: a cognitive tracking sensor capable of tracking the cognitive functions of the occupant; and a display providing a means for communicating information associated with the protective clothing system to the occupant, the information including information from the biomarker sensor network and the data storage system.

30. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 29, further comprising boots.

31. The protective clothing system according to claim 30, wherein, The boots include one or more of the following: a boot temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the occupant's feet accommodated in the boots in use and / or the temperature of the environment outside the boots; and a boot pressure sensor for measuring the pressure exerted by the occupant and / or the protective clothing system downward on the surface on which the occupant stands, wherein the data generated by the boot temperature sensor and the boot pressure sensor can be received by the data storage system and stored in the data storage system.

32. The protective clothing system according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein, The protective clothing system is a spacesuit.

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