Evaluation of U.S.Army prototype equipment: simulated warfare detection vest

摘要

Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) is a family of low-power, eye-safe, laser-based devices that simulate the casualty-producing effects of several direct-fire weapons. It is used to support realistic force-on-force warfare simulation training. The MILES Personnel Detection Device (PDD) is an instrumented vest worn by troops during training exercises that registers a hit if the wearer of the vest is shot by a MILES device. This study performed an ergonomic health hazard assessment (HHA) of the MILES PDD to determine its effect on soldier performance, comfort, and morale. The results of the HHA included numerical ratings of the overall comfort of the MILES PDD, a summary of the soldiers' comments, and field observations. The soldiers comments and results of the numerical ratings showed that the MILES PDD caused discomfort in the shouldereck area as well as the back and torso. The discomfort caused by the MILES PDD, along with the uneven distribution of its weight makes it difficult for soldiers to perform required tasks. Besides the discomfort factor, field observations revealed awkward postures associated with wearing the MILES PDD. Short- and long-term recommendations to improve the design of the MILES PDD were made following review of the HHA data and field observations. Recommendations include; reducing and repositioning the weight of the MILES PDD for a more even distribution of weight along the musculoskeletal system, reconfiguring nonessential equipment to reduce injury probability, and modifying the design to include more appropriate padding to enhance comfort.