Measurement of force exerted on footplates by centrifuge subjects.

INTRODUCTION

Increased G-tolerance in flight is usually achieved by isometric contraction of the muscles of the abdomen and of lower extremities, along with forceful expiration against a closed or partially closed glottis. Measurement and analysis of the forces developed by a pilot's leg muscles during +Gz acceleration is one of the steps needed to develop specialized physical conditioning programs.

METHODS

We developed a system for continuous measurement of forces exerted on simulated rudder pedals in a human centrifuge.

RESULTS

Data from five test subjects showed that the system could measure left-right asymmetry as well as individual differences in pressure patterns during acceleration.

DISCUSSION: The results suggest that the measurement system could be useful in training pilots to increase the effectiveness of their anti-G straining maneuvers. Specifically, the system may help pilots learn to adjust their effort to the G profile.