Trends in Anthropometric Measures in U.S. Air Force Aircrew Survey Data

Abstract

In 2008 a USAF Aircrew Sizing Survey project was launched. This survey is the first 3D whole body anthropometric survey of USAF aircrew. The primary purpose of this survey is to collect traditional anthropometric measurements, demographic information, and 3D data for body shape information on current aircrew personnel for use in crew station and protective equipment design. The specific aim for this paper is to compare the data collected to date with other available USAF aircrew anthropometric data as well as two extracted data sets, called JPATS (Joint Primary Air Training System) and JSF (Joint Strike Fighter) CAESAR (Civilian American European Surface Anthropometry Resource) which are currently being used as USAF design guidelines. The results from the comparisons between these survey data and available Air Force Survey data represent chronological trends in body dimensions for male and female aircrew. In addition, the noted anthropometric differences between the 2008–2009 survey data and the two extracted data subsamples (JPATS and JSF CAESAR) will help to determine the appropriateness of these subsets as substitute aircrew databases.

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