Initial Capability Decision Aid (ICDA) Thermal Prediction Model and its Validation
Abstract
The ICDA (Initial Capability Decision Aid) is a heat stress prediction model recently developed for monitoring the physiological status of Soldiers. ICDA utilizes real time input of metabolic activity derived from heart rate and air temperature. The model validation was conducted using data from three laboratory studies with varied environments (i.e., 27 deg C/75%RH; 49 deg C/l8%; 35 deg C/45%), clothing configurations and heat acclimation status. Subjects walked on a treadmill at 270-628 W for up to 180 min, depending upon study conditions. Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) between measured and predicted core temperature (Tcr) ranged between +/-0.11 and +/-0.50 deg C for these studies. The model predicted measured values of Tcr within one standard deviation, when environmental conditions were less stressful. Errors of estimates were larger with small sample size N<5). The ICDA predictions of skin temperature were less accurate than those of Tcr. ICDA predictions of sweat rates (SR) were more accurate when environmental conditions were, in terms of heat stress, less extreme. However, for encapsulated subjects, working in a 35 deg C/45%RH environment, the results for predictions of SR were mixed. This model shows promising prediction of thermal status, particularly Tcr, of Soldiers during heat stress. This non-invasive model is convenient for health assessment of Soldiers required to perform different tasks for long hours.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA446078
Entities
People
- Larry G. Berglund
- Miyo Yokota
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine