Visual Augmentation System Measurement Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for evaluating visual augmentation systems, such as night vision goggles, are ineffective in quantitatively measuring performance variations related to user tasks and often provide subjective, qualitative data, failing to accurately assess differences in user performance with and without these systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that quantitatively measure response time and head scan angle of users with and without visual augmentation systems, using a rotatable support with targets emitting electromagnetic radiation and a controller to record time stamps and angular movements, allowing for objective comparison of different systems in various lighting conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional evaluation methods are used, then the evaluation process is simple, but the measurement precision is low and data is subjective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional subjective visual evaluation methods with an automated optical detection system using emitters, detectors, and electronic control. The mechanical/visual assessment is substituted by electromagnetic radiation-based detection and automated data recording, eliminating human subjectivity and improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic radiation (light beams) as an intermediary between the user and the target. The emitter projects light to the target, and the detector receives the reflected light, creating an objective measurable signal that mediates the evaluation process between human perception and electronic recording.
2Measurement precision
If quantitative measurement systems are implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it addresses targets, triggers illumination, receives detector signals, records time stamps, and tracks angular position. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single integrated system, improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically records and processes evaluation data without requiring external intervention. The controller self-manages the coordination between emitter, detector, and positioning systems, and automatically timestamps measurements, reducing the need for additional operational equipment and simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Productivity
If response time measurement is implemented, then productivity of evaluation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions multiple targets at known angular locations and pre-configures the controller with target addresses. When evaluation begins, the system can immediately measure response times without setup delays, improving productivity. The rotatable support is pre-calibrated with angular positions, eliminating measurement preparation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector provides immediate feedback to the controller when light returns from a target, enabling automatic response time calculation. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates manual timing operations and accelerates the evaluation process, improving productivity while the electronic feedback mechanism integrates seamlessly into the control system without adding significant complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise, objective evaluation of visual augmentation systems by quantifying response time and scan efficiency, providing actionable insights into system performance and user fatigue, thereby improving task performance and understanding system variations.
Implementation Method 1
a target radiation source configured to generate electromagnetic (EM) radiation visible to the user solely through the visual augmentation system
Implementation Method 2
a radiation detector for detecting an engagement signal, each of the targets having a unique target address
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and related methods are provided for evaluating effectiveness of a visual augmentation system (VAS), such as night vision goggles (NVGs). The apparatus and methods illustratively measure the response time of the visual augmentation system (VAS) as a function of targeting detection, engagement, and scan angle.