Objective To define static, dynamic, and cognitive fit and their interactions as they pertain to exosystems and to document open research needs in using these fit characteristics to inform exosystem design. Background Initial exosystem sizing and fit evaluations are currently based on scalar anthropometric dimensions and subjective assessments. As fit depends on ongoing interactions related to task setting and user, attempts to tailor equipment have limitations when optimizing for this limited fit definition. Method A targeted literature review was conducted to inform a conceptual framework defining three characteristics of exosystem fit: static, dynamic, and cognitive. Details are provided on the importance of differentiating fit characteristics for developing exosystems. Results Static fit considers alignment between human and equipment and requires understanding anthropometric characteristics of target users and geometric equipment features. Dynamic fit assesses how the human and equipment move and interact with each other, with a focus on the relative alignment between the two systems. Cognitive fit considers the stages of human-information processing, including somatosensation, executive function, and motor selection. Human cognitive capabilities should remain available to process task- and stimulus-related information in the presence of an exosystem. Dynamic and cognitive fit are operationalized in a task-specific manner, while static fit can be considered for predefined postures. Conclusion A deeper understanding of how an exosystem fits an individual is needed to ensure good human–system performance. Development of methods for evaluating different fit characteristics is necessary. Application Methods are presented to inform exosystem evaluation across physical and cognitive characteristics.

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Any item of Warfighter-borne clothing and individual equipment (CIE) must not interfere with the Warfighter’s ability to quickly and accurately engage targets with their weapon. This paper describes the development of a novel test methodology for evaluating the effect of CIE on marksmanship performance using a weapon simulator system. Eleven military test participants executed the test methodology in a baseline condition and in a CIE test condition which included the M40 Chemical-Biological protective mask. Marksmanship performance variables analyzed included precision, radial error, total engagement time, aiming time, and movement time, as well as subjective interference ratings. There were no significant differences between the No Mask and M40 Mask conditions for precision or radial error, however, participants experienced significantly longer engagement and movement times while wearing the M40 mask. These results suggest the test methodology is sensitive enough to provide valuable insights regarding the effects of CIE on marksmanship performance.

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Marksmanship performance has traditionally been used in the military to assess individual and unit operational readiness. In more recent years, marksmanship simulator trainers have been utilized to reduce cost and time for weapons handling training and skills retention. However, they have not been readily utilized for product and equipment evaluation purposes. This study assesses the sensitivity of the marksmanship simulator for use during clothing and individual equipment (CIE) product evaluation and systems integration. Marksmanship performance of eleven participants was assessed during live fire and simulator shooting scenarios while in firing positions and protective equipment that are known to have effects on performance. The consistency of the performance and performance differences observed across firing configurations and firing positions in this within-subjects study suggests that marksmanship simulator trainers are sensitive enough to provide valuable insights on performance interferences during CIE test and evaluation, while saving time and resources.

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The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.