Revolutionizing Space Fitness: Bimgec

Moses Rowen's Award-Winning Zero Gravity Exercise Device

Space travel poses a unique set of challenges to human health, including osteoporosis, muscular atrophy, and psychological issues. To address these issues, Moses Rowen designed Bimgec, a Bio-Inspired Micro Gravity Exercise Concept. This innovative workout machine emulates weight in zero gravity, offering both weight training and aerobic workouts. Its unique eccentric bias system increases the effective load during the eccentric phase of a rep, providing a comprehensive workout solution for astronauts.

Rowen's inspiration for Bimgec came from nature. Chameleon tongues store energy in a collagen spiral structure, releasing it when needed. This biological marvel was mechanically analogized by Rowen using constant torque springs, typically used in window blinds. The result is a completely novel design that has no parallel in biology or mechanics.

Bimgec consists of three discrete modules: a spring battery providing resistance load, a toroidal gearbox allowing load variation, and a Motor-Generator Unit (MGU) for charging the battery pack and varying load profiles during a rep. The device is compact and lightweight, weighing only 9kg and fitting within a large shoe box. This is a significant improvement over NASA's current hydraulic resistance training equipment, which weighs about 200kg and is roughly the size of a small car.

The design process for Bimgec was not without challenges. The biggest technical challenge was the eccentric bias mode, which required the machine to increase load during the eccentric phase of a rep without external power requirements. Rowen overcame this challenge by designing a system where the MGU charges a battery pack in aerobic mode, and this energy is used by the MGU to increase the force of the eccentric phase. The result is a device that can provide between 12kg and 180kg of concentric load or 360kg of eccentric load.

The Bio Inspired Micro Gravity Exercise Concept is a testament to the power of innovative design and engineering. It not only addresses the health challenges associated with long-term space travel but also does so in a compact, efficient, and effective manner. The design's success is evident in its recognition by NASA and its Platinum A' Product Engineering and Technical Design Award in 2017.