UDC - Uniform Detection Characteristic for Detecting Roadway Obstacles

The Uniform Detection Characteristic (UDC) locus circumscribes a region in front of a vehicle at which the luminance requirement for detecting a roadway obstacle is met by the vehicle's headlamp system. Algorithms take into account variables that are not typically addressed by traditional (isolux) roadway illumination methods. The variables that can be treated include: obstacle size, coloration or reflectance characteristics; a driver's state of expectancy, age-related changes in visual sensitivity, and adaptation levels elevated by ambient light. The discernibility locus defines the distance at which a detection criterion, the luminance sensitivity threshold, is satisfied for moving or stationary obstacles. The locus protocol can be used for grading the effectiveness of lighting systems on specific vehicles, or for forensic investigation of nighttime automobile accidents