The UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has introduced a human-centered trial evaluating how head-mounted equipment affects soldier performance and health.
Rolled out in collaboration with defense contractor QinetiQ and the University of Chichester in England, the HEADS UP project tests serving personnel from four British Army regiments using custom rigs that simulate varying weights of night vision, augmented reality, and communications gear.
Identifying Causes
According to the Dstl, excessive head-mounted tools increase neck strain, thermal stress, and cognitive load, which can impair decision-making in the field.
To determine particular contributors, scientists are measuring movement speed, muscular exhaustion, cognitive fatigue, and eye tracking in equipped subjects.
“Our work ranges from collecting data in the field and running studies in our sport and exercise science laboratories,” said Prof. Sam Blacker, Chichester research lead for the HEADS UP initiative.
He added that the multidisciplinary team is specifically investigating how extra load mass impacts both the physical and mental demands placed on military personnel.
Guiding Future Acquisitions
Resulting data from the trial will serve as a basis for future UK Ministry of Defence procurement standards.
In addition to maintaining operational effectiveness, Dstl also aims to prevent long-term injuries for dismounted troops by adopting optimized capabilities.
“The trial puts the soldier at the centre of new equipment design,” explained Matt, human augmentation project lead at the agency.
“By reducing the negative effect of equipment, such as fatigue, we can improve performance and effectiveness. This will improve the soldier’s lethality, agility, and resilience.”