Wed, Apr 11, 2007
Provides HUD Imagery, Tactical Information To F-35 Pilots
Aero-News has learned a Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS)
made by Vision Systems International, LLC (VSI) recently flew for
the first time on an F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft. It was
worn by Lockheed Martin's Jon Beesley, who piloted the advanced
fighter.
The HMDS provides critical flight information to the pilot
throughout the entire mission. In addition to standard HMD
capabilities, such as extreme off-axis targeting and cueing offered
on VSI's other HMDs, Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) and
Display & Sight Helmet (DASH), this system fully utilizes the
advanced avionics architecture of the F-35.
The HMDS provides the pilot video with imagery in day or night
conditions combined with precision symbology to give the pilot
unprecedented situational awareness and tactical capability. Also,
by virtue of precise head tracking capability and low latency
graphics processing, it provides the pilot with a virtual heads-up
display (HUD). As a result, the F-35 is the first tactical fighter
jet in 50 years to fly without a HUD.
"Since the F-35 has no HUD, providing virtual HUD capability has
become a mandatory requirement, entailing precise head tracking and
display operation near zero latency. We are proud to be a key
partner to the F-35 industrial and government team," said VSI
President Drew Brugal.
The HMDS has been in development for five years and recently
completed all required safety of flight tests, allowing in-flight
seat ejections up to 450 KEAS (knots equivalent air speed). It has
demonstrated structural integrity to 600 KEAS as a critical risk
mitigation step towards full flight certification. (Not to
mention it's one of the meanest-looking devices we've ever come
across -- Ed.)
Principal suppliers include Elbit Systems Ltd. (ESL), which
provides the Display Management Computer for the Helmet that
contains advanced graphic processing and head tracking; Rockwell
Collins, which builds the Helmet Mounted Display, including
advanced optical design; and Helmet Integrated Systems Ltd. (HISL)
of the United Kingdom, providing the helmet shell and pilot
personal fitting system.
More News
"Clearing this certification hurdle is a major step forward in providing European CJ customers with a solution that not only enhances their aircraft operations but can also extend >[...]
Permanent Echo Radar signals reflected from fixed objects on the earth's surface; e.g., buildings, towers, terrain. Permanent echoes are distinguished from “ground clutter&rd>[...]
Aero Linx: Vintage Sailplane Association The purpose of the Vintage Sailplane Association (VSA) is to promote the acquisition, restoration and flying of vintage sailplanes by its m>[...]
Also: AMA National Fun Fly, Skyfire SF2, Echodyne Gets BVLOS, Av Meteorology Reference General Atomics' run at developing the Liberty Lifter ground effect aircraft has been put to >[...]
Also: Samson Sky, CAF Great Plains Wing, New Cert Standards, Flying Start Day There are, occasionally, blisteringly dunderheaded bits of governmental incompetence to be found with >[...]
Aero-News: Quote of the Day (05.28.24)
See All