Title
Oxygen mask fit analysis in F-16 fighter pilots using 3D imaging
Author
Schreinemakers, J.R.C.
Oudenhuijzen, A.J.K.
van Amerongen, P.C.G.M.
Kon, M.
Publication year
2013
Abstract
Background: The majority of Dutch F-16 pilots experience in-flight oxygen mask related nasal discomfort and injury. We aimed to analyze the fit of the oxygen mask. Methods: We successfully scanned 35 pilots with a 3D scanner to measure the distance between the contact area on the nose and the oxygen mask in seven points, and the difference (Δ) in angle between the nose and the mask relative to the facial midline. Ill fit was defined as ≥ 4 mm distance, or Δ ≥ 4o angle. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to objectify the reproducibility of the measurements. Results: There were 35 pilots who had ≥ 4 mm distance between the nasal dorsum and the mask and 14 pilots had Δ ≥ 4o angle. Reproducibility of the distance measurements was excellent (R ≥ 0.93, CI 95% 0.86-0.96) and of the angle measurements was good (R = 0.72, CI 95% 0.5-0.8). Conclusion: The room for displacement that we found may be a contributor to the discomfort. It is indicative of an ill fit of the oxygen mask, since all subjects had complaints. We recommend evaluating whether improved fixation of the mask and simultaneous reduction of the pressure on the nose will improve comfort.
Subject
Human
TPI - Training & Performance Innovations
BSS - Behavioural and Societal Sciences
Defence
Defence, Safety and Security
Oxygen mask comfort
Pilot performance
To reference this document use:
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:81034a94-b6eb-4fca-be94-a3a4c1ec02d8
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3357/asem.3611.2013
TNO identifier
482969
ISSN
0095-6562
Source
Aviation Space and Environmental Medicine, 84 (10), 1029-1033
Document type
article