Develop biomedical models and networked physiological sensor systems that enable Soldiers to predict and counter health threats from physical challenges, protective ensembles, non-agent chemical exposure, and extreme environments.

BBMD Research Areas

Biomedical Modeling and Simulation

• Use environmental, clothing, and mission data to predict water requirements and Soldier tolerance of heat, cold and high terrestrial altitudes

• Support materiel developers by performing biophysical analysis of new clothing and individual equipment (CIE)

• Develop computer displays that allow Warfighters to understand and use medical information

Translational Field Research (Test and Evaluation)

• Gather physiological data from Warfighters performing their missions to refine and verify biomedical models, improve physiological status monitoring capabilities, and guide DoD product transitions

• Develop and validate new individual physiological sensors

• Develop and validate network-centric mission-support models and algorithms that predict physiological strain and water requirements “on the fly”

• Acquire Spartan data network technologies that enable real-time health surveillance
  

Biophysics and Biomedical Modeling Division Products

Decision aids and planning tools developed by BBMD predict risk and performance detriments for Soldiers under heat or cold stress.

The USARIEM Heat Strain Decision Aid (HSDA) is an integral part of the Joint Warning and Reporting Network (JWARN) and the Joint Integrated Weather Effects Decision Aid (J-IWEDA). A version of HSDA is being developed specifically for transition to the Ranger Training Brigade.

The Probability of Survival Decision Aid (PSDA) has been transitioned to the US Coast Guard for integration into their Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System (SAROPS).

The Warfighter Physiological Status Monitor (WPSM) and the Spartan Sensor Network (SPARNET) are being developed by BBMD in collaboration with military, academic, and industry partners. Wireless squad- and personal-area networks will combine physiological sensors, predictive models, and user interfaces into applications to improve medical and situational awareness.

Biophysical testing of clothing and individual equipment supports materiel developers. USARIEM played an integral role in the development of the Joint Service Light Integrated Suit Technology (JSLIST) and the biophysics and biomedical modeling division is currently advising program managers in the development of next generation chem-bio protective ensembles for the Warfighter. USARIEM BBMD routinely evaluate insulation and moisture permeability of standard issue and prototype military and commercial gear to predict effects on performance and comfort.

BBMD science was an important part of the Cool the Force program, 2005 winner of the Army's collaboration award

Biophysics & Biomedical Modeling Division Materials
To learn more about BBMD science, research or facilities view the documents listed below:

Biophysics & Biomedical Modeling Division Brochure

Heat Strain Decision Aid Information Sheet

SPARNET Flyer Information Sheet

Thermal Manikin History web page