Simulating a flywheel exercise machine aboard Columbus

Launched on the 7th February 2008 with Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-122, and mounted on the International Space Station inside the Columbus laboratory, novel FlyWheel Exercise Machine (FWED)is a fitness device for astronauts based on a patented yo-yo effect, which, in contrast to other fitness devices, works independently of gravity.

In advance of its launch the Mechanisms Section were asked to calculate the effects of its use on the structure of an enclosed human habitat flying in space. A calculation of the transmitted disturbances and loads from the payload interfaces through the Columbus structure was carried out in order to assure the safety of the crew on board the ISS during the use of the fitness machine.