An experimental study on the ergonomics indices of partial pressure suits

Partial pressure suits (PPSs) are used under high altitude, low-pressure conditions to protect the pilots. However, the suit often limits pilot’s mobility and work efficiency. The lack of ergonomic data on the effects of PPSs on mobility and performance creates difficulties for human factor engineers and cockpit layout specialists. This study investigated the effects of PPSs on different ergonomic mobility and performance indices in order to evaluate the suit’s impact on pilot’s body mobility and work efficiency. Three types of ergonomics indices were studied: the manipulative mission, operational reach and operational strength. Research results indicated that a PPS significantly affects the mobility and operational performance of the wearers. The results may provide mission planners and human factors engineers with better insight into the understanding of pilots’ operational function, mobility and strength capabilities when wearing PPS.

► We investigated the effects of partial pressure suits on different ergonomics indices.
► We examined three types of ergonomics: manipulative mission, operational reach and operational strength.
► A PPS significantly affects the mobility and operational performance of the wearers.
► An ergonomic evaluation index system with three levels for PPS design was established based on the results of this paper.