Citation

da Silva GV, Halpern M, Gordon CC. Ergonomics 2017; 60(10): 1445-1457.

Affiliation

Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes , Arizona State University , Tempe , AZ , USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/00140139.2017.1301575

PMID

28271959

Abstract

Anthropometric data are essential for the design of military equipment including sizing of aircraft cockpits and personal gear. Currently, there are no anthropometric databases specific to Brazilian military personnel. The aim of this study was to create a Brazilian anthropometric database of Air Force pilots. The methods, protocols, descriptions, definitions, landmarks, tools and measurements procedures followed the instructions outlined in Measurer's Handbook: U.S. Army and Marine Corps Anthropometric Surveys, 2010-2011 - NATICK/TR-11/017. The participants were measured countrywide, in all five Brazilian Geographical Regions. Thirty-nine anthropometric measurements related to cockpit design were selected. The results of 2,133 males and 206 females aged 16-52 years constitute a set of basic data for cockpit design, space arrangement issues and adjustments, protective gear and equipment design, as well as for digital human modeling. Another important implication is that this study can be considered a starting point for reducing gender bias in women's career as pilots. Practitioner Summary This paper describes the first large-scale anthropometric survey of the Brazilian Air Force pilots and the development of the related database. This study provides critical data for improving aircraft cockpit design for ergonomics and comprehensive pilot accommodation, protective gear and uniform design, as well as digital human modeling.

Language: en

Keywords

Brazilian Air Force; anthropometry; cockpit design; flight deck, pilot accommodation