Aviator's Night Vision Imaging System HUD: An Analysis of its Application to Naval Helicopters

Combat Search and Rescue CSAR helicopter pilots routinely utilize Night Vision Goggles to enhance visual capabilities during night operations. The Aviators Night Vision Imaging System ANVIS HUD, recently tested on the HH-60H Seahawk, provides the capability to display critical flight parameters to the pilots via goggle-mounted display units, thus minimizing head-down time in the cockpit. As more and more Naval helicopter missions diversify to include CSAR and CSAR support, devices which effectively enhance night mission performance should be made available to the mission pilots. This report describes the developmental testing results of the ANVIS HUD system and critically analyzes its advantages and limitations for use in Naval helicopters. In addition, ANVIS HUD symbology is examined from a human factors perspective with recommendations for symbology design and placement.