Static Spacesuit Manipulator Hand (SSMH)

This invention is a wearable static manipulator assistive system to augment spacesuit gloves and reduce user fatigue during operations in high-resistance environments. In these situations, the user may need to handle a drill, welding torch, shovel, or hammer for numerous hours. The static manipulator maintains numerous quick release connection points where any tool can be connected, removing the users need to grip the tool for a long period of time, reducing hand fatigue and trauma. The static manipulator hand is supported statically for prolonged use. While designed primarily for astronaut use in outer space, other potential applications include aerospace, extreme-environment operations, industrial safety and human performance enhanced systems. 

Background: 
Current space suits gloves and other highly-resistance protective gloves can reduce hand mobility, and these gloved designs are well documented to cause hand trauma and fatigue. 
This can lead to physical harm for users directly, as well as downstream risks for costly space missions and operational crew safety. Astronauts may spend upwards of nine hours on surface exploration missions where any type of hand issues while using tools or suit operations of any kind can put the entire mission at jeopardy.

Applications: 

• Space exploration 
• Underwater sea exploration
• Extreme environment operations
• Industrial safety

Advantages: 

• Reduces hand fatigue and trauma associated with prolonged use
• The system allows for ports that attach to a wide variety of tools 
• User can attach, remove and exchange tools during operations with efficacy
• The static manipulator provides a flexible platform that supports multiple operational tools and task