Development of an Operational Altitude Decompression Sickness Computer Model: Feasibility Study Results

Abstract : In response to the need for a standardized methodology for altitude decompression sickness risk assessment across the wide range of exposures encountered in USAF flight operations, the Armstrong Laboratory's Crew Technology Division initiated a research program in this area in late 1989. The focus of work has been on determining whether development of an operational altitude decompression computer for both predictive and real-time DCS risk assessment is feasible, given the current level of understanding about altitude decompression sickness, the amount of available experimental data, and the inherent variability in individual susceptibility to altitude DCS. The results of this feasibility study indicate that although some technical risk is involved, development of the proposed altitude decompression computer is feasible. This was demonstrated through the implementation of a simplified, preliminary model for altitude DCS risk assessment. This technical report documents the work accomplished during this research effort and provides a road map for development of the desired operational altitude decompression computers.