Evaluating New Technologies to Enhance Night Vision by Looking at Detection and Recognition Distances of Non-Motorists and Objects

Abstract

This empirical research aims to identify how new technologies are able to enhance night vision. This research provides empirical data on 12 vision enhancement systems taking into consideration factors such as driver age and type of objects on the roadway (i.e., static and dynamic objects). The results of this study are presented in terms of detection and recognition distances. When the detection distance of different objects were analyzed, the Infrared Thermal Imaging System resulted in the longest detection and recognition distance followed by the halogen low beam headlamps combined with high-output, medium-output, and hybrid ultraviolet headlamps. There was no significant difference, in terms of detection and recognition distances, among the halogen low beam (baseline) and when the ultraviolet headlamps are used. However, there was a significant difference among halogen low beam and high intensity discharge (HID), where halogen allowed drivers to detect and recognize objects at farther distance.