Night Vision Goggle Cockpit Integration
Abstract
Integrating NVGs into aircraft with incompatible interior designs limits performance and presents safety and operational concerns to the flying communities. Non- ejection safe NVGs and their corresponding carrying case presents a space dilemma forcing pilots to contend with where to safely store the goggles. An example of this occurred when the carrying strap entangled the flight controls of an A-10. Interior aircraft lighting not compatible with the spectral sensitivity of NVGs presents another concern. The prohibitive cost of aircraft modifications has resulted in the application of frequent "quick-fix" solutions. An effective lighting-fix was implemented in the cockpit of the B-1 bomber, but the problem persisted due to non-modified lighting from the aft stations. Aircraft System Program Office s (SPO), attempted to solve this problem by proposing the installation of a light-blocking curtain, separating the two compartments. Fabric samples for the proposed curtain were evaluated to determine the fabric which met the criteria. In the interest of reducing weight and maximizing battery life, NVG manufacturers and field units for the most part, have transitioned from alkaline to lithium batteries. However, with the use of lithium comes environmental, cost, and shipping concerns. The results of a comparative study on various batteries will be presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 09, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA430709
Entities
People
- Mike Sedillo
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory