  |
Publication AbstractsInfluence of a reduced G-suit pressure schedule on G-duration tolerance using enhanced G-protection ensemblesKrock LP, Balldin UI, Harms-Ringdahl K, Singstad CP, Linder J, Siegborn JAviat Space Environ Med 1997; 68:403-9 AbstractBackground: Reducing pressure to enhanced G- protection ensembles may diminish potential undesirable physiologic effects, as well as improve wear comfort and garment durability. Hypothesis: G-duration tolerance will not be affected by reducing pressure to the Swedish tactical flight combat suit (TFCS). A second objective tested the similarity in G-duration tolerance between the TFCS and Combined Advanced Technology Enhanced Design G-Ensemble (COMBAT EDGE) combined with a prototype enhanced coverage G-suit. Methods: There were 12 Swedish pilots (mean = 30 yr) who experienced gradual onset (+0.1 G · s-1) runs (GOR) to +9 Gz, rapid (+6 G · s-1) onset runs (ROR) and simulated aerial combat maneuvers (SACM) with +5 to +9 Gz cycles. The GOR and ROR profiles had a sustained times of 60 s after reaching +9 Gz. Results: GOR duration tolerance was statistically decreased (p < 0.01) by the lower pressure (1.1 psig · G- 1) when compared to standard pressure (1.5 psig · G- 1). No statistical difference between TFCS and COMBAT EDGE was observed during the GOR trials. For all conditions, during the RORs, 90% of the subjects completed at least 30 s at +9 Gz. Many technical or medical difficulties during SACM trials limited statistical treatment of these data. However, no obvious among-condition differences were observed. Noteworthy among SACM trials were those of 3 subjects enduring more than 9 min before stopping; one completing 12.5 min (35 cycles). Neither heart rate, blood pressure, nor perceived exertion data revealed a condition-effect difference. Conclusion: Moderately reduced pressure to the extended coverage anti-G suit, combined with positive pressure breathing, may yield decreased G-tolerance results during laboratory evaluation; however, observed differences are sufficiently small they are likely operationally insignificant.
Information on subscribing, and on obtaining copies of an article or of an entire issue. Table of Contents for Volume 68, Number 5 of the ASEM journal.
|
 |
 |