Visual and Field-of-View Evaluation of the M-43 Protective Mask with Prescription Eyepieces
Abstract
The U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory was requested by the proponent of the 43 aviator protective mask to conduct a laboratory study of the visual performance of flight AH-64 Apache helicopter pilots wearing masks with 'glue-on' prescription lenses. In response, several visual functions tests were conducted including: high and low contrast visual acuity, heterophoria, fixation disparity, and stereopsis at both near and far. In addition, visual field losses of the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting system were examined. Performance in the corrective mask was compared to that with habitual correction, either spectacles or contact lenses. The results of the visual functions tests indicated acceptable performance on all the measures except fixation disparity. The high degree of variability found on this test suggested problems associated with the prescription lens optical design, namely its high radius of curvature and its additional thickness. Field-of-view results indicated losses in visual field above those obtained with spectacle correction, but comparable to that found with the plano mask.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA234592
Entities
People
- Clarence E. Rash
- John K. Crosley
- Richard R. Levine
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab