Optimum viewing distance for target acquisition

Gerald C. Holst

doi:10.1117/12.2181408

12 May 2015 Optimum viewing distance for target acquisition

Gerald C. Holst

Proceedings Volume 9452, Infrared Imaging Systems: Design, Analysis, Modeling, and Testing XXVI; 94520K (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2181408
Event: SPIE Defense + Security, 2015, Baltimore, MD, United States

Abstract

Human visual system (HVS) “resolution” (a.k.a. visual acuity) varies with illumination level, target characteristics, and target contrast. For signage, computer displays, cell phones, and TVs a viewing distance and display size are selected. Then the number of display pixels is chosen such that each pixel subtends 1 min^-1. Resolution of low contrast targets is quite different. It is best described by Barten’s contrast sensitivity function. Target acquisition models predict maximum range when the display pixel subtends 3.3 min^-1. The optimum viewing distance is nearly independent of magnification. Noise increases the optimum viewing distance.

Citation Download Citation

Gerald C. Holst "Optimum viewing distance for target acquisition", Proc. SPIE 9452, Infrared Imaging Systems: Design, Analysis, Modeling, and Testing XXVI, 94520K (12 May 2015); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2181408

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available