Citation

Demczuk V. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1998; 22(4-5): 381-387.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper discusses the collection of field data used to provide some validation of a model of energy expenditure for walking soldiers. The simulation of physical performance can be used to predict soldier performance in a synthetic environment such as a battle simulation. Soldier energy expenditure is a useful model because it forms the basis for other predictive models such as body core temperature and sweating rate. Data was collected from a number of soldiers performing various activities over a range of terrains. Walking speed and gradient data was collected by storing position information obtained from a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. Samples of expired air were taken to estimate oxygen uptake. Soldier weight, carried load and heart rate were also recorded. The validation of an energy expenditure model coded into the CAEN battle simulation by use of GPS data, heart rate data and oxygen consumption data collected in a field environment appears usable. The results indicate the significance of an upward slope on energy expenditure. Even though only small gradients were experienced in this study, they caused large increases in energy expenditure. The assumption made in the study that negative slopes could be approximated to level terrain was not supported.Relevance to the industryTo ensure accurate simulation of a human energy expenditure model that can be used for predictive purposes, field validation studies must be made. This paper documents some techniques used for that field validation.