Visual mechanisms and predictors of far field visual task performance

Visual mechanisms involved in target detection, recognition, and tracking were examined. Relationships were analyzed in the context of simulated combat, focusing on the short-range air defense weapon operator. Objectives were to identify visual ability interrelations, predictors of performance, and interactions with cuing, target characteristics, and experience. Good predictors included visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, resting focus, near focal point, and blur interpretation. Many of these abilities interacted with the independent variables, producing differential effects on performance. Visual abilities logically grouped into three principal components: active accommodation predicted target detection and identification; passive accommodation predicted detection and acquisition; and image interpretation predicted acquisition, identification, and tracking. Results supported the three visual subsystems hypothesis, based on neurophysiological evidence of pathways in the brain corresponding to specific visual functions.