Ergonomische Evaluatie van Drie Prototypen van een Gevechtsbepak- Kingssysteem (Ergonomical Evaluation of Three Prototypes of a Military Backpack)
Abstract
Three prototypes of a new backpack for the Royal Netherlands Army were evaluated on ergonomical aspects. The physical performance of six male and three female soldiers wearing the prototypes was determined on the test battery. After the completion of the test battery the subjects evaluated the prototypes by means of a questionnaire. Prototypes A and B consisted of a padded waist belt and shoulder straps, whereas prototype C was a vest-type backpack. Ammunition and equipment could be carried in attachable pockets. The average loss of maximal physical performance with prototype C amounted to 12% compared to 17% for prototype A. The loss of performance with prototype B was 14%. Prototype A was also significantly worse on the aspects of stability, mobility of the trunk, pressure distribution in the neck, and the frequency of getting stuck, compared to prototype C. Prototype B is evaluated worse than prototype C on the aspects of stability and frequency of getting stuck, but significantly better than prototype A on the aspect pressure distribution in the neck. The welded PVC material used in prototype B proved to be not strong enough for military use. The position of the pockets for ammunition on all the prototypes interfered with movements of the legs during climbing or running.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 25, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA226633
Entities
People
- M. Holewijn
- R. Heus