Assessing the Impact of Clothing and Individual Equipment (CIE) on Soldier Physical, Biomechanical, and Cognitive Performance Part 1: Test Methodology
Abstract
The objective of this study was to establish a test methodology utilizing an operational scenario for assessing the effects of clothing and individual equipment (CIE) on Soldier physical and cognitive performance. This objective was accomplished by translating established scientifically based cognitive and physical metrics into an integrated field test battery/scenario. The scenario was designed to have Soldiers perform an operationally relevant and fatiguing set of tasks (e.g., movement to an objective, action on an objective, etc.). Test participants performed six events in a 4-hour scenario each day over the course of 3 test days, with a rest day between each day of testing. The scenario sequence of events was as follows: 1. Pre-dynamic rifle marksmanship performance; 2. First 3-mile foot march at 3 mph; 3. Load Effects Assessment Program (LEAP) obstacle course; 4. Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) exercise; 5. Second 3-mile foot march at 3 mph; and 6. Post-dynamic rifle marksmanship performance. The knowledge products resulting from this research (Part I: Test Methodology and Part II: Data Analysis) will give insights to combat developers and commanders on the effects of existing CIE on Soldier performance. Part I focuses on providing a detailed description of the methodology, while Part II reports the results of the study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1047926
Entities
People
- Christina Caruso
- Clifford L. Hancock
- Jay Mcnamara
- K. B. Mitchell
- Leif Hasselquist
- Marianna D. Eddy
- Stephanie A. Brown
Organizations
- United States Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center