Aviator's night vision system (ANVIS) in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF): user acceptability survey

Keith L. Hiatt; Christopher J. Trollman; Clarence E. Rash

doi:10.1117/12.848928

5 May 2010 Aviator's night vision system (ANVIS) in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF): user acceptability survey

Keith L. Hiatt, Christopher J. Trollman, Clarence E. Rash

Proceedings Volume 7688, Head- and Helmet-Mounted Displays XV: Design and Applications; 76880G (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.848928
Event: SPIE Defense, Security, and Sensing, 2010, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

In 1973, the U.S. Army adopted night vision devices for use in the aviation environment. These devices are based on the principle of image intensification (I²) and have become the mainstay for the aviator's capability to operate during periods of low illumination, i.e., at night. In the nearly four decades that have followed, a number of engineering advancements have significantly improved the performance of these devices. The current version, using 3rd generation I² technology is known as the Aviator's Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS). While considerable experience with performance has been gained during training and peacetime operations, no previous studies have looked at user acceptability and performance issues in a combat environment. This study was designed to compare Army Aircrew experiences in a combat environment to currently available information in the published literature (all peacetime laboratory and field training studies) and to determine if the latter is valid. The purpose of this study was to identify and assess aircrew satisfaction with the ANVIS and any visual performance issues or problems relating to its use in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). The study consisted of an anonymous survey (based on previous validated surveys used in the laboratory and training environments) of 86 Aircrew members (64% Rated and 36% Non-rated) of an Aviation Task Force approximately 6 months into their OEF deployment. This group represents an aggregate of >94,000 flight hours of which ~22,000 are ANVIS and ~16,000 during this deployment. Overall user acceptability of ANVIS in a combat environment will be discussed.

Citation Download Citation

Keith L. Hiatt, Christopher J. Trollman, and Clarence E. Rash "Aviator's night vision system (ANVIS) in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF): user acceptability survey", Proc. SPIE 7688, Head- and Helmet-Mounted Displays XV: Design and Applications, 76880G (5 May 2010); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.848928

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