The Atmospheric Redox Exchange Sensor Project, also known as the Wearable CO₂ Sensor Project, focuses on the development of a compact, head-mounted system designed to monitor atmospheric gas exchange with high precision. The system integrates client-supplied carbon dioxide (CO₂) sensors onto a printed circuit board (PCB) and wirelessly transmits real-time sensor data to a digital interface accessible via a computer or mobile device. A central component of this project is the design of a lightweight and ergonomic head-mounted apparatus capable of supporting multiple PCBs to ensure optimal sensor placement while maintaining user comfort. The project will advance through several development stages, including sensor selection and calibration, data acquisition and analysis, digital interface development, wireless communication implementation, PCB integration, and comprehensive system testing. The overarching objective is to deliver a fully functional, efficient, and user-friendly monitoring system capable of providing accurate real-time data.
Space stations operate in a microgravity environment, where the absence of significant gravitational forces drastically diminishes the buoyant forces that typically govern gas exchange. As a result, when astronauts exhale CO₂, the gas does not rise and disperse into the surrounding air as it does under Earth’s gravity. Instead, CO₂ tends to accumulate around the astronaut’s face, increasing the likelihood of re-inhalation. While sensors are currently used to study this phenomenon, existing systems exhibit several limitations. Current devices sample data at rates that are insufficient for real-time monitoring, and they often lack the ability to measure additional environmental parameters such as oxygen levels and humidity. Moreover, many systems do not support real-time data transmission, limiting immediate analysis and response.
Addressing these challenges requires careful consideration of several factors. Portability is paramount; the device must be lightweight, compact, and ergonomically designed for extended wear without restricting movement. Battery life is another critical factor, necessitating the use of low-power components and optimized energy management strategies to minimize the need for frequent recharging. Additionally, real-time data tracking is essential, requiring reliable wireless communication and onboard processing capabilities to deliver immediate feedback to both the wearer and remotely monitoring personnel. By integrating these features, the Wearable CO₂ Sensor Project aims to advance the current state of atmospheric monitoring in microgravity, providing a versatile and accurate tool for both research and practical applications aboard space stations.
The Atmospheric Redox Exchange Sensor Project, also referred to as the Wearable CO₂ Sensor Project, involves the design and development of a compact, head-mounted system capable of accurately monitoring atmospheric gas exchange in real time. This system incorporates client-supplied carbon dioxide (CO₂) sensors mounted onto printed circuit boards (PCBs), enabling precise data collection. The device is designed to wirelessly transmit sensor readings to a digital interface accessible via a computer or mobile device, allowing for immediate observation and analysis. A significant focus of the project is the creation of a lightweight and ergonomic head-mounted apparatus that can accommodate at least two PCBs, ensuring optimal sensor placement while maintaining user comfort. The development process encompasses multiple stages, including sensor selection and calibration, data acquisition and analysis, digital interface development, wireless communication implementation, PCB integration, and thorough system testing. The ultimate goal of the project is to deliver a fully functional, efficient, and user-friendly wearable monitoring system capable of providing accurate real-time CO₂ data, meeting both client specifications and academic objectives.