Human-centered design for the spacesuit development: A case study of the “feitian” eva spacesuit

Abstract

The aim of this study is to advance the current understanding of human-centred design (HCD) and its toolkits effectively applied in designing and developing spacesuits for extravehicular activity (EVA). This study intends to address how HCD supports the design and development of the EVA Spacesuit through an in-depth case study on the ‘Feitian’ EVA Spacesuit. Data were primarily collected through a series of in-depth interviews with senior staff of the Astronaut Center of China. This study mainly contributes two aspects of knowledge: (1) knowledge of aerospace product design process based on HCD principle, including design strategy and design process knowledge; (2) user knowledge: user needs and ergonomic factors involved in the design of EVA Spacesuit products were comprehensively summarised. The results of this study can contribute towards promoting a humanised design of the EVA Spacesuit.