Reflectance of visual acuity screens.

The luminance of the background and of the target (visual acuity letter) was measured for five commonly used visual acuity screen materials. Most materials were found to be highly nonlambertian. A greater than threefold difference in reflectance normal to the surface was found for the respective screens tested. The percent polarization maintained by each screen material, using American Optical Vectograph systems, was measured. The relative illuminations generated by eight projector systems were compared. A discussion of the factors and recommendations for improvements related to projected chart visibility are made.