Comparison of the Biophysical Properties and Simulated Performance of Two Cooling Vests
Abstract
This report provides a quantitative comparison of two different cooling vests and compares simulated performance in two environmental conditions, three metabolic rates, while wearing a chemical protective ensemble. Standard thermal manikin assessments were conducted for a chemical protective ensemble and specifically for two cooling vests: the Air Soldier Environmental Control Vest (ECV) and the Oceanit Laboratories' Liquid Cooling Garment (LCG). Modeling and analysis was conducted using a version of the Heat Strain Decision Aid (HSDA) to compare maximal work times at three work rates (130, 200, 330W), in two environmental conditions warm (35 deg C, 40% RH) and extreme hot dry (51.7 deg C, 14% RH). Results: Biophysical testing properties in standard conditions of the ensemble measured the thermal insulation (1.86 clo) and evaporative potential (0.049 im/clo). Based on predictive modeling outcome parameters of lower core temperatures during work and work time to reach critical temperature, the LCG is a better cooling garment than the ECV.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1121653
Entities
People
- Adam J. Luippold
- Adam W Potter
- Bradley S. Laprise
- Bruce S. Cadarette
- David P. Looney
- Jason W. Hancock
- Jose C. Salmeron
- Julio A. Gonzalez
- Laurie A. Blanchard
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine