Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-1995

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Aviation Systems

Major Professor

Peter Solies

Committee Members

Ralph Kimberlin, Charles Paludan

Abstract

The UH-IN Helicopter is used to conduct Terrain Flight (TERF), Nap-of-the-Earth (NOE) Flight, Formation Flight with other helicopters, and Rotary Wing Close Air Support (RWCAS) to fulfill the requirements of the USMC Assault Support "Utility" Mission. To seize the advantage of surprise, these operations are often conducted in darkness, under very low ambient light levels. The AN/AVS-7 Night Vision Goggle (NVG) Head Up Display (HUD) system, or ANVIS HUD, allows pilots to maintain visual contact outside the cockpit while simultaneously monitoring vital flight instrument and navigation information. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), Patuxent River, MD recently conducted a qualitative evaluation of the UH-60A/L Baseline Symbol Set. A total of 36 pilots participated in the inflight evaluation. Roughly two-thirds of the group had some experience as a USMC Utility Mission Pilot. Additionally, the Pilot-Evaluator group included 14 school-trained Test Pilots with operational experience in 12 different types, models, or series of aircraft. The ANVIS HUD demonstrated mature technologies which have tremendous potential for Assault Support Helicopters. The system will greatly enhance warfighting capability at night, especially in periods of reduced visibility. The results, documented in this paper, revealed major deficiencies in the UH-60A/L Baseline Symbology as applied to the USMC Utility Mission. Flashing symbols were visually compelling causing a degree of fixation. For most NVG flight tasks, a less cluttered, essential-information- only display was desirable. Flightworthy symbology for Rotary Wing applications must be aircraft and mission oriented. Presentation and functionality deemed acceptable for one community of Pilots may not be suitable for other communities and/or missions.

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