The risk to helicopter aircrew of acceleration stress was assessed by investigating the human physiologic response to transitions from - 1 Gz (push) to +4.5 Gz (pull) loads. Nine volunteers participated in a study conducted at the Veridian Operations Centrifuge Facility in Warminster, PA. A 1-hr mission scenario consisting of nine helicopter maneuvers, based on in-flight G measurements (push-pull mission, PPM), simulated both current (CM: .0.2 to +3.3 Gz) and projected future platform capabilities (FM: -1 to +4.5 Gz). Measurements included blood pressure, heart rate (FIR), loss of vision, and subjective fatigue. Visual decrements were minimal during CM while muscular tensing was required to avoid blackout during FM. Light loss typically occurred during the transition from -Gz to +Gz. Within the scope of these tests, subjects tolerated the range of Gz-stresses associated with current USN rotary wing platforms. When subjected to FM G-loads (typical of current USA platforms), cardiovascular stress significantly increased, Gz tolerance dropped as much as 1.2 6, and HR increased as much as 67 bpm. Cardiovascular changes were significantly greater during FM PPM relative to GM. Four subjects reported Almost-Loss of Consciousness symptoms during FM. While G-stress experienced by aircrew generated by current helicopters does not appear to present a high risk, 6 awareness training is recommended to reduce risks to aircrew exposed to G-loads generated by more aggressive helicopters. Future studies are required to determine the impact of longer mission times and dehydration.


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    Title :

    Human Tolerance to Acceleration Loads Generated in High-Performance Helicopters


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    2000


    Size :

    43 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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