An Optical Analysis of the Farrand VCASS (Visually Coupled Airborne Systems Simulator) Helmet-Mounted Display
Abstract
Optical design and component testing have been examined for a new wide-angle, helmet-mounted dual-eye display designed by the Farrand Optical Company, Inc., Valhalla, New York, as part of the Visually Coupled Airborne Systems Simulator (VCASS) program. The display uses a Farrand-proprietary technical device called the Pancake Window, and two 19-mm miniature cathode ray tubes that are mounted with their optics on a modified pilot's helmet. The device weighs 2.3 kg (5.1 lb). Separately adjustable monocular displays provide overlapping images for a panoramic display up to 140 deg wide by 60 deg tall. Each eye has its own 15-mm exit pupil and enough eye relief to allow ordinary eyeglasses to be worn. The display is permanently set at zero diopter focus to eliminate parallex. Interpupillary distance is adjustable, while accommodation for different head sizes is provided by altering the helmet liner with simple spacers. Optical quality would allow resolution of 2000 TV lines, and vignetting is nonexistent over most of the field of view. Although the optical design is difficult by conventional standards, optical tests made on the device prove the manufacturability of the optics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA136649
Entities
People
- R. A. Buchroeder