A Comparison Study of Peripheral Vision-Restricting Devices Used for Instrument Training

Abstract

Abstract : For decades, civilian and military flight instructors have used peripheral vision-restricting devices (PVRDs) in order to enhance instrument flight training that was performed during periods of visual conditions (outside of clouds). In addition to limiting a pilot's view only to the primary flight instruments, PVRDs also cause the artificial exclusion of the full cockpit environment, i.e., overhead switches and gauges, and those on the center and opposite-pilot side of the instrument panel. These restrictions and loss of peripheral information and spatial orientation can, and do, cause adverse physiological and psychological effects on some pilots. PVRDs must be worn in accordance with current directives regardless of any identified negative effects on training and proficiency. This study attempted to identify the most preferred PVRD among three devices reportedly used by a survey population and a newly designed hood concept. When considering all of the data in aggregate, the Novel Hood was judged the most preferred based on performance ratings, minimal reports of adverse affects, and its selection as the first choice of one-half of the participants. The most preferred device among those readily available for use by aviators appears to be the visor sticker. The Foggles(trade name) received worst ratings in both the field of view and comfort categories. The hood was easily identifiable as the least favored. It received generally poor performance appraisals and caused a sizeable number of reported adverse effects, including loss of situational awareness and spatial disorientation. Its overall favorable ratings and demonstrated promise of minimizing the adverse effects associated with PVRD use during instrument flight training indicate its acceptability to the aviation community. It is also recommended that the U.S. Army issue the visor sticker as an interim standard for meeting the conditions set forth in all aircrew training manuals.