BASIC BIOPTIC TRAINING

Purpose: This document provides a brief narrative of the suggested minimum requirements for bioptic training that an individual must master prior to proceeding to a formal driver-training program.

General: A bioptic is two lenses with separate functions combined into one. The parts are referred to as the carrier lens and the telescope. The carrier is used for scanning and the telescope located near the top of the carrier lens is used for spotting. A trioptic has the above carrier and telescope lens components with the addition of bifocal added in the lower portion of the lens for focusing at near. Successful training of an individual in the proper use of bioptics requires the user to demonstrate an understanding to the basic tenant that the telescopic portion of the lens is used for periodic, brief spotting and the carrier portion for all other visual tasks.

Bioptic training should be progressive, working from easier tasks to more difficult tasks. The emphasis should be on scanning, identification, tracking and visual memory. The user should demonstrate their skills while stationary and while moving as happens when traveling by automobile.

1. I. Basic care of the bioptic lens

   1. A. Maintaining the lenses in best operating condition by proper cleaning techniques.

2. II. Basic mobility and bioptic use

   1. A. Demonstrate good walking mobility while looking through the carrier portion of the lens.

   2. B. Demonstrate basic understanding of the bioptic function.

      1. 1. Demonstrate the ability to spot through the telescope by aligning it with the target and spotting through it.
      2. 2. Demonstrate the ability to return gaze from the telescope to the carrier lens in a smooth and efficient fashion.

3. III. Scanning - carrier lens

   1. A. Demonstrate good horizontal and vertical scanning techniques through the carrier lens.

4. IV. Advanced target practice - scan with the carrier lens, spot and identify targets with the telescope.

   1. A. Scan, spot and identify the characteristics of stationary targets of varying size and distance from a stationary position.

      1. 1. Practice should incorporate stationary targets associated with driving including traffic signals, street signs, highway markers, etc.

   2. B. Scan, spot, identify and track moving targets of varying size and distance from a stationary position.

      1. 1. Practice should incorporate moving targets associated with driving including automobiles, bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, etc.

   3. C. Scan, spot and identify stationary targets of varying size and distance while moving (as a passenger in a car, bus or other vehicle, for example.)

      1. 1. Practice should incorporate stationary targets associated with driving including traffic signals, street signs, highway markers, etc.

   4. D. Scan, spot and track moving targets of varying size and distance while moving as a passenger in a car, bus or other vehicle.

      1. 1. Practice should incorporate moving targets associated with driving including automobiles, bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, etc.

Author: Lt. Terry Chapman; Jack Curtis

Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §§32-2-9; 32-6-13, as amended.

History: New Rule: Filed March 16, 2005; effective April 20, 2005.