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Accession Number:
ADA281784
Title:
Switching from Forward-Looking Infrared to Night Vision Goggles: Transitory Effects on Visual Resolution
Descriptive Note:
Corporate Author:
ARMY AEROMEDICAL RESEARCH LAB FORT RUCKER AL
Report Date:
1994-06-01
Pagination or Media Count:
13.0
Abstract:
Helmet-mounted displays under development for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft will allow the user to switch electronically between forward looking infrared FLIR and night vision goggle NVG sensors. These sensor transitions potentially involve large changes in display luminance which could transiently impair visual resolution and performance. The purpose of this study was to identify the display luminances which produce a transient reduction in vision when switching from a higher luminance FLIR to a lower luminance NVG display. A letter recognition task was used to assess the effect of luminance adaptation on visual resolution in five subjects. A significant reduction in letter recognition was observed in the first second after switching from simulated FLIR to simulated NVGs when the FLIR luminance was or lO fL. By varying letter size, contrast, and exposure time, the magnitude and duration of visual loss after switching from a bright 49.2 fL FLIR display were determined. The visual loss lasted up to 4 sec, and included a 2x reduction in visual acuity, and a 3x reduction in contrast sensitivity. Large differences in sensor display luminance should be avoided to maintain high-levels-of visual performance and aviation safety. Design features or training may be necessary to achieve a proper balance between FLIR and NVG luminances which optimize performance and safety without sacrificing the quality of the sensor image.
Distribution Statement:
APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
