Quantitative Methods for Determining US Air Force Crew Cushion Comfort
Abstract
Designing a single cushion to address the physiological problems of the entire aircrew population is a significant challenge. Often the cushion itself is the only item that can be replaced to improve comfort. In this study 22 subjects were tested on Operational and prototype cushions, including one dynamic cushion. Tests were conducted over eight-hour durations, during which subjective survey data, cognitive performance data, seated pressures and contact areas, muscular fatigue levels, and lower extremity oxygen saturation were recorded. Peak seated pressures range from 1.22 - 3.22 psi. Oxygen saturation in the lower extremities decreased over the eight hours. Cognitive performance increased over time. Muscle fatigue increased throughout the eight hours regardless of cushion, with the exception of the dynamic cushion which promoted muscular recovery. Subjective comfort levels declined over the eight hours. Subjective measurements correlated with objective parameters for the static cushions. Trade-offs in performance and fatigue mitigation were apparent in the dynamic cushion which also highlighted differences between genders.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA441946
Entities
People
- David Reynolds
- Joseph A. Pellettiere
- Julia Parakkat
- Manikandan Sasidharan
- Muhamed El-zoghbi
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory