Night vision

About: Night vision is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 6004 publications have been published within this topic receiving 67372 citations.

Antagonists of ionotropic gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors impair the NiCl2-mediated stimulation of the electroretinogram b-wave amplitude from the isolated superfused vertebrate retina.

Abstract: Purpose NiCl(2) (15 microM) stimulates the electroretinogram (ERG) b-wave amplitude of vertebrate retina up to 1.5-fold through its blocking of E/R-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. Assuming that such an increase is mediated by blocking the release of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) via ionotropic GABA receptors, we tested the effect of both GABA itself and GABA-receptor antagonists such as (-)bicuculline (1.51-fold increase) and (1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridin-4-yl)methylphosphinic acid (TPMPA; 1.46-fold increase) on the b-wave amplitude. Methods Recording of the transretinal potentials from the isolated bovine retina. Results GABA (100 microM) reduced the b-wave amplitude only when NiCl(2) (15 microM) was applied first. Each antagonist applied on its own stimulated the b-wave amplitude only partially: subsequent NiCl(2) superfusion caused a small but additional increase, leading to a 1.69- and a 1.88-fold total increase of the amplitude by Ni(2+) plus (-)bicuculline or Ni(2+) plus TPMPA, respectively. Only the application of both antagonists in combination, before superfusing low NiCl(2) (15 microM), completely prevented subsequent stimulation by NiCl(2) with a similar 1.90-fold total increase of b-wave amplitude. Those retina segments that did not respond to NiCl(2) could not be stimulated by (-)bicuculline and vice versa. Conclusion The stimulatory effect of NiCl(2) on the ERG b-wave amplitude is mainly, but not only, mediated by a NiCl(2)-sensitive, Ca(v)2.3-triggered GABA release acting through ionotropic GABA-A and GABA-C receptors.

Image Modifying Assembly for Smart Devices

Abstract: An image modifying assembly for connection to a smart device, such as a smartphone or smartpad, is disclosed. The assembly includes an adapter case for receiving the smart device, a connector attached to the adapter case, a locking collar operably associated with the connector for removable attachment thereto, and a clamping device having a first clamping portion for connection to the locking collar, a second clamping portion spaced from the first clamping portion, and a bore extending between the first and second clamping portions. The bore together with the locking collar and opening provide an optical path for the camera associated with the smart device. The second clamping portion is adapted for connection to an image modifying device, such as a spotting scope, lens, night vision monocular, and so on, to thereby modify an image before it is received by the camera.

Third-generation sensors for night vision

Abstract: Third generation sensors are under development to enhance capabilities for target detection and identification, threat warning, and 3D imaging. Distinct programs for both cooled HgCdTe and uncooled microbolometer devices are part of this thrust. This paper will describe the technology for HgCdle two-colour, high-definition imaging sensors and threat warning devices, avalanche photodiode arrays for 3D imaging, and the supporting technology being developed to enhance the readouts that support these devices. Uncooled detector initiatives will also be described to reduce pixel size in conjunction with the production of 480×640 arrays. Finally, efforts are also beginning to move both photon and thermal detectors closer to radiative-limited performance while simultaneously reducing the cooling requirements for photon detectors.

Night vision enhancement systems for ground vehicles: the human factors literature

Abstract: This report summarizes applied human factors studies of vision enhancement systems (both night vision goggles and LCD-based systems) and related topics for driving at night. Research recommendations are given based on gaps in the literature. Studies are grouped by dependent measure and task (target detection, distance/gap estimation, driving performance, subjective workload and preference, and other) and independent factor categories (display, sensor, environment, and the driver). Display characteristics include aided vs. unaided viewing, image-display mapping (field of view, magnification, focal length), image polarity, stereoscopic vs. monoscopic systems, and color vs. monochromatic images. Sensor characteristics include the sensor position and panning, type, fusion, reliability, and quality. Environmental characteristics include lighting and visibility, road, traffic and glare, speed, gap size, target characteristics, and task. The driver variable examined is age. For each one of these independent measures, results from all relevant studies are described. In addition, the report includes a short summary of each paper reviewed. As supplemental material, the appendix includes illustrations of military night vision systems and informal reviews of two civilian night vision systems.

Night vision clearance light

Abstract: A night vision clearance light (10') assembly includes a shell (22), an array of visible light emitting elements (24), and a night vision device (30). The visible light emitting elements (24) are preferably LEDs mounted on a ring (26) received in the shell (27). The night vision device (30) is operatively connected to an associated night vision camera and sees through an opening (37, 34) in the ring (26) and the lens (22). The assembly is easily mounted in a standard factory-cut clearance light housing in the exterior of a truck cab.