A STUDY OF EFFECTS OF VISUAL FLICKER AND AUDITORY FLUTTER ON HUMAN PERFORMANCE.
Abstract
Results of nine laboratory experiments entitled 'Study of Effects of Visual Flicker and Auditory Flutter on Human Performance,' are contained in this report. The purpose of the research was to assess the feasibility of using dual source flickering lights and fluttering tones as harassment devices or as non- lethal weapons. Performance was measured on depth perception, manual dexterity, aiming and tracking, vigilance and a cognitive-motor task. Psychophysical judgments of the apparent movement effect produced by two lights flickering out of phase were obtained in one experiment. Postexperimental interviews were given to assess the psychological and somatic symptoms associated with exposure to flicker and flutter. While dual source flickering lights produce performance decrement from optimum conditions, they are no more effective than a single light. Compared to performance under artificial moonlight flickering lights do not add to performance decrement. A few minor psychological and somatic complaints under flicker were reported. These were neither serious enough nor wide spread enough to justify the use of flickering light as a weapon. Little quantitative data was obtained with regard to fluttering tones, however, informal observation led to the conclusion that flutter did not show promise as a harassment device at the intensities investigated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0808275
Entities
People
- A. E. Dahlke
- Clinton C. Goff
- J. D. Palmer
- J. R. Burkett
- Monte M. Page
Organizations
- University of Oklahoma