Microsoft HoloLens test found that more than 80% of US soldiers had headaches and nausea


by

Franklin Heijnen

Microsoft HoloLens is a goggle-type MR (mixed reality) holographic device worn on the head, and is also delivered as a combat goggle for the US Army. A report on HoloLens testing by the US military, obtained by Bloomberg, an American economic newspaper, revealed that more than 80% of the soldiers wearing it showed symptoms such as nausea and discomfort.

Microsoft (MSFT) US Army HoloLens Goggles Gave Soldiers Nausea, Headaches - Bloomberg
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-13/microsoft-s-us-army-version-of-hololens-goggles-gave-soldiers-nausea-headaches

Microsoft HoloLens proves to be a headache for US soldiers • The Register
https://www.theregister.com/2022/10/13/us_army_report_microsoft_hololens/

Based on Microsoft HoloLens, the US Army is promoting the introduction of the `` Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) '' that provides army soldiers with a head-up display (HUD) for fighter pilots. In addition to being able to project various information on the HUD, this IVAS will also be equipped with functions such as a night vision scope. If all options are adopted, it is expected that a budget of 21.88 billion dollars (about 3.22 trillion yen) will be required in 10 years for goggles, replacement parts, support services, etc.

The 79-page report in question has been designated as 'controlled non-confidential information' and has not been made public. 'Mission-affecting physical discomfort, including headaches, eye strain, and nausea,' Nicholas Gertin, director of test and evaluation operations for the U.S. Department of Defense, said in a report that IVAS tests reported. .


by

Office of Naval Research

According to Gertin, more than 80% of soldiers wearing Microsoft HoloLens on duty showed symptoms within three hours. However, Mr. Gertin says that IVAS should be prioritized before it is widely deployed in order to reduce such physical discomfort, and he has not postponed the adoption of IVAS.

In addition, it is reported that 'improvements are required for the goggles' low-light sensor and display brightness, field of view, and unreliability of functions.' And there are many voices from the upper management that 'IVAS has not contributed to the completion of the mission.' The report also states that 'implementing an IVAS without user acceptance could result in $21.88 billion in taxpayer dollars being wasted on a system that soldiers are unwilling to use or fail to use as intended.' It is pointed out.


by Office of Naval Research

On the other hand, IVAS has also given a positive evaluation that 'the navigation and movement of the troops have been strengthened.' 'By working closely with the Army, we were able to develop a transformative platform that rapidly builds and modifies devices to improve soldier safety and effectiveness,' Microsoft said. We are proceeding with the production and delivery of

Brigadier General Christopher Schneider, director of the U.S. Army's rapid prototyping and procurement program, PEO Soldier, told The Register, 'IVAS testing is progressing well according to the approved plan, and operational trials have been completed. The results showed that the program was successful on most of the Army's evaluation criteria, although testing showed that the IVAS was inadequate and could be improved, and the Army decided to implement it. We plan to deal with it,' he said.

in Hardware, Posted by log1i_yk