Exploratory Detection and Identification of Small Colored Circles under Low Light Conditions for Unaided and Aided Vision
Abstract
Night vision goggle (NVG) compatibility assessment of carry-on medical equipment for airworthiness release (AWR) certification for use in theUH-60 Black Hawk revealed possible visual signatures that could compromise mission security and increase the vulnerability of crew and aircraft. This limited sample, exploratory study sought to estimate the detection ranges of illuminated targets unaided and under NVGs. The goal of this study was to develop methods to measure and quantify carry-on medical equipment visual signatures in the laboratory, and correlate the laboratory measurements and different light units with the visual detection data of known targets. Findings suggest there is much more variability in scotopic detection ranges among observers than best acuity values. This study indicates the greatest detection ranges would most likely be under starlight. Methods to mitigate target luminance and signature for medical carry-on equipment in the visual and near IR spectrum should be explored. In addition to filters and placement within the aircraft, simple, readily available materials to cover the equipment when on the ground or during take-off and landings might be effective. The U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory also developed a method to more accurately estimate central and peripheral viewing detection under starlight illumination from the photopic light measurements and the scotopic to photopic ratio.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 26, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1109866
Entities
People
- Sandra Conti
- William Mclean
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab