Design Guidelines for Special Forces Sleeping Bags: Addressing User Needs in South Korea

Abstract

Special forces operatives require sleeping bags that not only effectively preserve body temperature in extreme conditions but also maintain a lightweight and compact profile to accommodate heavy combat loads and ensure high mobility. Current models often lack sufficient thermal insulation and optimal mass-to-volume ratios, necessitating enhancements in warmth, portability, and adaptability. This study developed comprehensive design guidelines for military sleeping bags designed to the specific needs of the Republic of Korea Army Special Forces (ROK-SF) for extreme cold conditions. Through desk research, benchmarking, expert interviews, and surveys with experienced military personnel, we identified crucial design elements that balance thermal efficiency, lightweight construction, and compactness. Our preliminary findings emphasize the importance of advanced thermal properties, modular adaptability, and user-centric features. The research yielded design guidelines incorporating hybrid insulation materials, ergonomic designs, and innovative features such as integrated hot pack pockets and detachable components. Additionally, we acknowledge the need for more specialized demographic data from ROK-SF personnel to refine these guidelines further. This study contributes to the enhancement of military sleeping bags for diverse operational environments and outlines future research directions to improve their functionality and comfort further.