TM_11-5855-263-10_ANVIS_OperatorMnl_AVS-6.pdf

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT C - Distribution authorized to U.S. Government agencies and their contractors, for official use or for administrative or operational purposes. This determination was made on 15 June 1995. Other requests for this document must be referred to Commander, US Army Communications-Electronics Command and Fort Monmouth, ATTN: AMSEL-LC-LEO-E-ED, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703-5006.

ARMY TM 11-5855-263-10

AIR FORCE TO 12S10-2AVS6-1

OPERATOR'S

MANUAL

AVIATOR'S NIGHT VISION

IMAGING SYSTEM (ANVIS)

AN/AVS-6(V)1

(NSN 5855-01-138-4749) (EIC: IPR)

AN/AVS-6(V)2

(NSN 5855-01-138-4748) (EIC: IPQ)

AN/AVS-6(V)1A

(NSN 5855-01-439-1745) (EIC: IPW)

DEPARTMENTS OF THE ARMY AND THE AIR FORCE

1 FEBRUARY 2004

Equipment Description Page 1-13

Operator’s Checks Page 2-5

Image Intensifier Inspection Criteria

Page 2-23

Operation Page 2-30

DESTRUCTION NOTICE - For unclassified, limited documents, destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of contents or reconstruction of the document.

a

Equipment Limitations

To avoid personal injury and property damage when using the ANVIS, carefully read and understand the following safety precautions.

• The equipment requires some ambient light (moonlight, starlight, or artificial light, etc.) to operate. The level of performance depends on the level of light.

• Ambient light may be reduced by such factors as passing cloud cover and objects that produce shadows.

• The equipment is less effective viewing into shadows and other darkened areas.

• The equipment is less effective through rain, fog, sleet, snow, smoke, and other reflective material.

• Adjust speed and altitude to prevent overflying the field-of-view when conditions of possible reduction or loss of vision exist.

• Exercise extreme caution when flying over low-contrast terrain such as snow-covered territory, sandy desert environments, large bodies of water, or grassy hills. Under ambient starlight conditions, low-contrast environments degrade visibility, thereby disguising or masking changes in the terrain. This is especially true under low light conditions (e.g., starlight and overcast starlight) and higher speeds.

WARNING

b

EQUIPMENT LIMITATIONS - Continued

• Exercise extreme caution when flying from high ambient light conditions to low ambient light conditions. Under low light conditions, the goggles lose some of the resolution that they have under highlight conditions. Flying from highlight to low light conditions quickly reduces the sharpness and definition of terrain images.

• Some goggles may experience a measurable loss of performance at temperatures above 100°F (38°C). This is caused by ambient heat beginning to increase thermonic emissions of the photocathode. If this begins to occur, it will appear as though you are looking through eyeglasses that are starting to fog or develop a slight haze.

• The equipment has a field-of-view limited to 40°, which requires appropriate continuous side-to-side head movements.

Do not attach the lanyard directly to the flight helmet.

Attaching the lanyard directly to the flight helmet may cause head and neck injuries in a survivable accident. The only authorized way of attaching the lanyard to the flight helmet is with the use of the Fastener Tape, Hook, and Fastener Tape, Pile.

c

• Do not use mercury or rechargeable NiCad batteries. Using batteries other than AA alkaline

1.5 Vdc or AA lithium L91 1.5 Vdc could result in a

system failure.

• Do not carry batteries in pockets containing metal objects such as coins, keys, etc. Metal objects can cause the batteries to short circuit and become very hot.

• Do not heat, puncture, disassemble, short circuit, attempt to recharge, or otherwise tamper with the batteries.

• Turn off the equipment if the battery compartment becomes unduly hot. If possible, wait until the batteries have cooled before removing them.

Make sure the power pack batteries are not expired.

If a dead battery is in the compartment opposite the one being used to power the goggles, the low-battery indicator will not come on when the voltage of the active battery drops to 2.4 Vdc. This condition may result in a system failure.

To insure uninterrupted operation of the ANVIS in the event you lose aircraft power, make sure you have appropriate batteries in the battery compartments and place the ON-OFF-ON switch on the power pack to the ON position.

d

Toxic Material

The image intensifier’s phosphor screen in each monocular contains toxic materials.

• A broken image-intensifier assembly may be caused from damage to the binocular assembly, especially if the monocular housing is cracked by force.

• If an image-intensifier assembly breaks, be extremely careful to avoid inhaling the phosphor screen material. Do not allow the material to come in contact with the mouth or open wounds on the skin.

• If the phosphor screen material contacts your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.

• If you inhale/swallow any phosphor screen material, drink a lot of water, induce vomiting, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

If eyeglasses are worn, the upper rims of the eyeglasses can obscure the low-battery indicator and reduce the field-of-view.

e

There is a tendency to place the eyepiece focus ring too far clockwise in the negative diopter direction.

For crewmembers under 30 years of age, the flexible lens of your eye will compensate for the misapplied adjustment and focus the image; however, after using the ANVIS for about an hour, your eye muscles will grow tired and the image will become blurred causing headaches and eyestrain.

When setting the eyepiece focus, you may achieve a clear image for each eye (monocular) and yet have a blurred image or develop eyestrain when viewing with both eyes (binocular). This occurs when the eyepiece focus is set for one eye while the other eye is closed or covered. In this situation, your eyes tend to accommodate to a nearer distance than infinity, typically 1 to 3 feet. Over accommodation or focus imbalance can cause eyestrain and periodic blurred vision.

If the batteries are damaged or show signs of leakage, do not return them to the local supply point.

Dispose of the batteries according to the unit Standard Operating Procedure. Additional information is available in TB 43-0134.

f

• Some external lighting below 625 nanometers wavelength (blue-green lighting) cannot be viewed through the ANVIS because of the minus-blue coating on the inside of the objective lenses.

• All crewmembers with access to a set of flight controls must wear the same type of night vision devises (NVDs), for example, both pilots wearing ANVIS goggles.

Aircraft lighting not compatible or acceptable with ANVIS will interfere with ANVIS performance, such as glare on the aircraft windscreen.

Do not mix alkaline and lithium batteries within the same AA cartridge.

Be sure the power pack is switched off before installing the batteries.

CAUTION

g

If the ANVIS fails when using aircraft power and it does not recover when switched to battery power, do not attempt to troubleshoot that power pack or power converter with another binocular. Maintenance personnel must troubleshoot the power pack or power converter with a voltmeter first. Using that power pack again could damage another binocular due to a defective power pack or power converter that puts out excessive voltage.

Extreme care must be taken when using this electro-optic equipment. Do not drop the ANVIS on any hard surface. Dropping the system could result in equipment failure.

To prevent damage to the image intensifier tubes, always set the switches of the aircraft power converter and the power pack to the OFF positions before connecting or disconnecting the quick disconnect or mount connector.

Do not attempt to flip up or flip down the binocular without using the lock-release button. The binocular could be damaged or may come out of the mount if the button is not used.

h

The low-battery indicator must be checked without the binocular attached to the mount or in the flipped-up position.

Do not overtighten the LIF into the objective lens.

Care must be taken not to cause damage to the binocular assembly by forcing to check extreme limits (i.e., +2 to –6 diopters).

To prevent damage, destruction, or loss of the goggles, the lanyard must be worn while flying with

ANVIS.

Do not attempt to adjust the tilt angle of the binoculars by pushing or pulling the monoculars up and down as this will damage the adjustment mechanism. Use only the tilt lever to make tilt angle adjustments.

CAUTION

i

Do not attempt to adjust the eye-span distance by trying to pull the monoculars away from each other or push them together. Using force on the monoculars to make this adjustment will damage the adjustment mechanism inside the PAS. Use only the eye-span knob(s) to adjust the eye-span distance.

Damage to the monocular housing and/or objective lens can result if you attempt to adjust infinity focus holding the LIF instead of the objective focus ring.

Do not remove the binocular from the mount with a twisting motion or by using only one hand, especially while in the locked position. Removing the binocular in this manner will damage the PAS or mount, or both.

Operate the ANVIS only under dark conditions.

The ANVIS is a precision optical instrument and must be handled carefully at all times to prevent damage.

Do not scratch or touch the external lens surfaces.

Do not use abrasive materials to clean the gold-plated electrical contacts.

CAUTION

CAUTION

CAUTION

j

Operating the ANVIS in dusty or sandy conditions can pit and scratch the optical elements and damage the mechanical components.

Operating the ANVIS in rainy or humid conditions can corrode and deteriorate the system unless precautions are followed.

Do not immerse the ANVIS. Do not put any parts of the ANVIS away wet or store them in a wet carrying case.

Be careful not to touch the glass surfaces. If you get fingerprints or contamination on the glass surfaces, clean with lens paper. If moisture is needed, dampen the lens paper with clean water.

FIRST AID

For first aid or artificial respiration, see FM 21-11, First Aid for Soldiers

CAUTION

CAUTION

A/B blank

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES

NOTE: This manual supersedes TM 11-5855-263-10, dated 15 June 2001.

Date of issue for revision is:

Original - 1 Feb 2004

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES IN THIS PUBLICATION IS 163,

CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING:

Page No. *Change No.

Title a-j A/B blank i-vi 1-1 – 1-32 2-1 – 2-76 3-1 – 3-6 A-1 – A-2 B-1 – B-8 C-1 – C-6 D-1 – D-2 Index-1 – Index-10

*Zero in this column indicates an original page.

i/ii blank

TECHNICAL MANUAL DEPARTMENTS OF THE ARMY

NO. TM 11-5855-263-10* AND THE AIR FORCE

TECHNICAL ORDER Washington, DC NO. TO 12S10-2AVS6-1 1 February 2004

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

AVIATOR’S NIGHT VISION IMAGING SYSTEM (ANVIS)

AN/AVS-6(V)1

(NSN 5855-01-138-4749) (EIC: IPR)

AN/AVS-6(V)2

(NSN 5855-01-138-4748) (EIC: IPQ)

AN/AVS-6(V)1A

(NSN 5855-01-439-1745) (EIC: IPN)

REPORTING ERRORS AND RECOMMENDING IMPROVEMENTS

You can help improve this manual. If you find any mistakes, or if you know of a way to improve the procedures, please let us know. We’d prefer that you submit your recommended changes electronically, either by e-mail (AMSEL-LC-LEO-PUBS-CHG@mail1.monmouth.army.mil) or online (http://edm.monmouth.army.mil/pubs/2028.html). Alternatively, you may mail or fax your letter, DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) or DA Form 2028-2 (Recommended Changes to Equipment Technical Publications) to: Commander, US Army Communications-Electronics Command and Fort Monmouth, ATTN:

AMSEL-LC-LEO-E-ED, Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703-5006. The fax number is 732-532-3421, DSN 992-3421.

For Air Force, submit AFTO Form 22 (Technical Order System Publication Improvement Report and Reply) in accordance with paragraph 6-5, Section VI, TO 00-5-1. Forward directly to prime

ALC/MST.

In any case, we will send you a reply.

*This manual supersedes TM 11-5855-263-10 dated 15 June 2001.

iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Paragraph Title Page

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1-1

Section I General Information 1-1 1-1 Scope 1-1 1-2 Maintenance Forms and Procedures 1-1 1-3 Corrosion Prevention and Control (CPC) 1-1 1-4 Destruction of Army Materiel to Prevent

Enemy Use 1-4

1-5 Reporting Equipment Improvement Recommendations (EIR)

1-4

1-6 Warranty Information 1-5 1-7 Nomenclature Cross-Reference List 1-5 1-8 List of Abbreviations 1-6 1-9

Glossary 1-6

Section II Equipment Description 1-13

1-10 Equipment Characteristics, Capabilities, and Features

1-13

1-11 Location and Description of Major Components

1-15

1-12 Differences Between Models 1-21 1-13

Equipment Data 1-24

Section III Principles of Operation 1-27 1-14 Mechanical Functions 1-27 1-15 Optical Functions 1-28 1-16 Electronic Circuit Function 1-29 iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS - Continued

Paragraph

Title Page

CHAPTER 2 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2-1

Section I Description and Use of Operator’s

Controls and Indicators 2-1

Operator Controls and Indicators 2-1

Section II Operator’s Checks 2-5

2-2 Operator’s Checks Table 2-5 2-3 Resolution Check Using the TS-

4348/UV or ANV-20/20 Test Set 2-20

2-4 Inspection Criteria for Proper Image Intensifier Assembly Operation

2-23

Section III

Operation Under Usual Conditions

2-30

2-5 Assembly and Preparation for Use 2-30 2-6 Operating Procedures 2-47 2-7

Preparation for Movement 2-68

Section IV Operation Under Unusual Conditions 2-71 2-8 Operation in Dusty or Sandy

Conditions 2-71

2-9 Operation in Rainy or Humid Conditions

2-72

2-10 Operation in Salt Water Areas 2-72 2-11 Operation in NBC Environments 2-73 2-12 Operation in Laser Threat

Environments

2-73 v

TABLE OF CONTENTS - Continued

Paragraph

Title Page

CHAPTER 3

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS 3-1

Section I Lubrication Instructions

3-1

Section II Troubleshooting Procedures

3-1

Section III Maintenance Procedures

3-5

APPENDIX A REFERENCES

A-1

APPENDIX B COMPONENTS OF END ITEM

(COEI) AND BASIC ISSUE ITEMS

(BII) LISTS

B-1

APPENDIX C ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZATION LIST

(AAL)

C-1

APPENDIX D EXPENDABLE AND DURABLE

ITEMS LIST

D-1

ALPHABETICAL INDEX Index-1 vi

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

• Usage

You must familiarize yourself with the entire manual before operating the equipment. Read and follow all warning notices.

• Manual Overview

The table of contents includes the paragraph number, paragraph title, and page number for each chapter. A glossary lists special or difficult terms with accompanying definitions. An index provides additional references to the subject contents.

• Special Features

- A locator is provided on the right hand border of the front cover. This gives the location of the information most frequently used. To find the topic OPERATION, open the manual to the correct page by using the black tab on the side of the manual that lines up with the topic

OPERATION.

- In this manual, an Operator’s Checks table is used instead of a PMCS table. For the ANVIS, the PMCS is performed by the maintainer and is included in the maintenance manual.

1-1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Section I. General Information

1-1 SCOPE

This manual provides instruction for the operator to use and maintain the Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS) AN/AVS-6(V)1 series (see Figure 1-1) and AN/AVS-6(V)2 (see Figure 1-2). The ANVIS is a self-contained night vision device that enables improved night vision using ambient light from the night sky (moon, stars, skyglow, etc.).

1-2 MAINTENANCE FORMS AND PROCEDURES

Department of the Army forms and procedures used for equipment maintenance will be those prescribed in DA Pam 738-751, Functional Users Manual for the Army Maintenance Management System – Aviation (TAMMS-A) or TB 1-1500-348-30, Aviation Night Vision Goggle Maintenance Documentation, All U.S. Army Aircraft.

Refer to the latest issue of DA Pam 25-30, Consolidated Index of Army Publications and Blank Forms to determine whether there are new editions, changes or additional publications or forms pertaining to this equipment.

1-3 CORROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL (CPC)

Corrosion prevention and control (CPC) of Army materiel is a continuing concern. It is important that any corrosion problems with this equipment be reported so that the problem can be corrected and improvements made to prevent the problem in future equipment.

1-2

Figure 1-1. Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System, AN/AVS-6(V)1 Series.

1-3

Figure 1-2. Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System, AN/AVS-6(V)2.

1-4

While corrosion is typically associated with rusting metal, it can also include deterioration of other materials such as contacts, injection-molded plastic, and foam inserts in the case. Unusual cracking, softening, swelling, or breaking of these other materials may be a corrosion problem.

If a corrosion problem is identified, report it using Standard Form 368, Product Quality Deficiency Report. Use keywords such as “corrosion,” “rust, ”deterioration,” or “cracking” to ensure that the information is identified as a CPC problem. Submit the form to the address specified in DA Pam 738-751.

1-4 DESTRUCTION OF ARMY MATERIEL TO PREVENT

ENEMY USE

For procedures to destroy this equipment to prevent its use by the enemy, refer to TM 750-244-2, Procedures for Destruction of Electronic Materiel to Prevent Enemy Use (Electronics Command).

1-5 REPORTING EQUIPMENT IMPROVEMENT

RECOMMENDATIONS (EIR)

If your ANVIS needs improvement, let us know. Send us an EIR.

You, the user, are the only one who can tell us what you don’t like about your equipment. Let us know why you don’t like the design or performance. Put it on an SF 368, Product Quality Deficiency Report. Mail it to U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command and Fort Monmouth, ATTN: AMSEL-LC-ED-CFO, Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703-5007. We’ll send you a reply.

For Air Force, Send AFTO Form 22 or AF Form 1000.

1-5

1-6 WARRANTY INFORMATION

Some ANVIS systems and parts will be covered by a warranty.

The warranty expiration date of the system is located on top of the pivot and adjustment shelf (PAS). Report all defects in material or workmanship to your maintainer, who will take the appropriate action.

1-7 NOMENCLATURE CROSS-REFERENCE LIST

Table 1-1 provides a cross-reference of nonofficial and official items.

Table 1-1. Nomenclature Cross-Reference List.

COMMON NAME

OFFICIAL NOMENCLATURE

ANVIS Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System

Battery Pack Power Pack Assembly Clip-on Power Source Battery Case Assembly Interpupillary Adjustment Knob Knob Image Tube Image Intensifier, Night Vision Lanyard Neck Cord PAS Pivot and Adjustment Shelf

1-6

1-8 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

Table 1-2 is a list of abbreviations encountered in using this equipment.

Table 1-2. List of Abbreviations.

ABC Automatic Brightness Control ALSE Aviation Life Support Equipment ANVIS Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System, AN/AVS-6 AVIM Aviation Intermediate Maintenance AVUM Aviation Unit Maintenance BSP Bright-Source Protection cm Centimeter COPS Clip-on Power Source CPC Corrosion Prevention and Control EIR Equipment Improvement Report LED Light-Emitting Diode LIF Light Interference Filter mm Millimeter MAC Maintenance Allocation Chart OSAP Optimal Sight Adjustment Point PAS Pivot and Adjustment Shelf SF Standard Form Vdc Voltage direct current

1-9 GLOSSARY

AMBIENT LIGHT. The light present in the environment around a night vision device and produced by outside sources such as moon, stars, or reflected light.

BINOCULAR ASSEMBLY. The assembly that attaches to the mount. It contains two monoculars and a supporting shelf.

1-7

BINOCULAR SUBASSEMBLY. The binocular subassembly is a combination of two monocular housings and a pivot adjustment shelf all in one unit.

BLACK SPOTS. These are cosmetic blemishes in the image intensifier of the ANVIS or dirt or debris between the lenses.

BRIGHT SPOTS. These can be blemishes in the image area produced by the ANVIS. This condition is caused by a flaw in the film on the microchannel plate. A bright spot is a small, nonuniform, bright area that may flicker or appear constant. Bright spots usually go away when the light is blocked out and are cosmetic blemishes that are signal induced.

CAUTION. Condition, practices or procedures that must be observed to avoid damage to equipment or destruction of equipment.

CHICKEN WIRE. An irregular pattern of dark thin lines in the field-of-view either throughout the image area or in parts of the image area. Under the worst case condition, these lines will form hexagonal or square-wave shapes.

CLIP-ON POWER SOURCE The power source contains two AA batteries and provides electrical power through the contact pads on either side of the fore and aft slide.

DARK (OR DARK AREA). A place in which there is very little light. It does not mean total darkness. Generally, this means conditions similar to a quarter-moon or starlit night.

DARK-ADAPTED. Having ones eyes adjusted to the goggles’ output under low light conditions.

DIOPTER. A unit of measure used to define eye correction.

Adjustments to the eyepiece focus ring will provide a clearer image in each eye.

DISPLACEMENT. A sight picture that deviates from the correct Optimal Sight Adjustment alignment at 40º field-of-view.

1-8

EDGE GLOW. This is a defect in the image area of the ANVIS.

Edge glow is a bright area (sometimes sparkling) in the outer portion of the viewing area.

EMISSION POINT. A steady or fluctuating pinpoint of bright light in the image area that does not go away when all light is blocked from the objective lens of that monocular. The position of an emission point within the image area of the monocular does not move. An emission point should not be confused with a point light source in the distance.

EYEPIECE LENS ASSEMBLY. Consists of an eyepiece lens cell and eyepiece focus ring. Attaches to the rear of the monocular housing and adjusts for variations in the user’s eyesight.

FIXED PATTERN NOISE. This is a cosmetic blemish in the image area characterized by a faint hexagonal (honeycomb) pattern throughout the viewing area that most often occurs at highlight levels or when viewing very bright lights. Fixed pattern noise is inherent in the structure of the fiber optics and can be seen in every image intensifier if the light level is high enough.

Sometimes called “honeycomb.”

FLASHING. This is a defect in the image area of the ANVIS.

The image appears to flicker or flash. This can occur in one or both image intensifier tubes.

FLICKERING. See “flashing.”

HONEYCOMB. See “fixed-pattern noise.”

IMAGE DISPARITY. This condition may exist when there is a difference in brightness between the two image intensifier assemblies within the same binocular.

IMAGE DISTORTION. This problem is evidenced by vertical objects, such as trees or poles appearing to wave or bend when you move your head vertically or horizontally when looking through the ANVIS. Ground surfaces in the direction of hover may appear to swell or sink. Ensure that you are viewing through the center of the goggles when performing this check. The problem is within the image intensifier assembly and not the lenses.

1-9

IMAGE INTENSIFIER ASSEMBLY. An electro-optical device inside each monocular that detects and amplifies ambient light to produce a visual image. It consists of a photocathode, microchannel plate, phosphor screen optics, and integral power supply.

INFINITY FOCUS. Adjustment of the objective lens so that a distant object, such as a star or the point light on a distant tower, forms the sharpest image.

INITIAL BATTERY COMPARTMENT. When the power pack is attached to the back of the helmet, the initial battery compartment is the upper (or right) compartment with respect to the ON-OFF-ON power switch.

INTERMITTENT OPERATION. This is a defect in the image area of the ANVIS. See “flashing.”

LIGHT INTERFERENCE FILTER. This is a light protection filter for the binocular. Use of this filter will result in a slight reduction in system gain.

MICROCHANNEL PLATE. A current-multiplying optical disk that intensifies the electron image produced by the photocathode.

MINUS-BLUE COATING. A special coating in the objective lens of the ANVIS that filters out light from the instrument panel in aircraft with the correct lighting. This makes the goggles “blind” to the instrument lighting so the glare does not interfere with viewing outside the aircraft. This coating will also eliminate viewing other lights with wavelengths below 625 nanometers, such as blue lights.

MOUNT ASSEMBLY. There are two Helmet Mount Assemblies:

One mount for the SPH-4/4A helmet replaces the standard visor housing and the other mount for the HGU-56/P or SPH-4B helmet attaches directly to the four pre-drilled holes.

1-10

NOTE. Information of special importance, interest, or aid in job performance.

OBJECTIVE LENS ASSEMBLY. Consists of an objective lens cell and focus ring. Attaches to the front of the monocular housing and adjusts for variations in distance to the viewed area or object.

OFFSET BINOCULAR ASSEMBLY ((V)2 only) A specialized binocular assembly for use with the SPH-4 helmets modified with the helmet-mounted sighting system. Mates to offset mount;

cannot be used with the standard centered mount.

OFFSET MOUNT ASSEMBLY ((V)2 only). Same purpose and use as mount, but used with the SPH-4 helmet that is modified with the helmet-mounted sighting system.

OUTPUT BRIGHTNESS VARIATION. Each monocular should present an image with uniform brightness throughout the image area. Sometimes there are areas of the image that vary in brightness, particularly noted by a low contrast. These low contrast areas should not exhibit distinct lines of demarcation or degrade image quality, and you should still see a full circle.

Variations in output brightness are a cosmetic blemish and must not be confused with “shading.”

PHOTOCATHODE. The input optic of an image intensifier that absorbs light energy and in turn releases electrical energy in the form of an electron image.

POWER CONVERTER. An aircraft component that converts 28 vdc aircraft power to 3.8 vdc for use by the ANVIS. Some aircraft may have this power converter. The coiled breakaway, quick-disconnect power cable must be used with the ANVIS to allow safe exit from the aircraft in the event of an emergency.

1-11

POWER PACK. A component of the ANVIS that attaches to the back of the helmet and provides power to the goggles. Power is supplied either from the aircraft power converter through the power pack or by batteries contained in compartments inside the power pack.

RIDGE. A ridge is one knurl and its adjacent depression on the outside diameter of the objective focus ring or eyepiece focus ring.

One-half ridge is either the width of a knurl or its adjacent depression (see Figure 1-3).

Figure 1-3. Ridge and One-Half Ridge.

1-12

SECONDARY BATTERY COMPARTMENT. When the power pack is attached to the back of the helmet, the secondary battery compartment is the lower (or left) compartment with respect to the ON-OFF-ON power switch. Only zero-time batteries are used in this compartment.

SCINTILLATION. A faint, random, sparkling effect throughout the image area. Scintillation is a normal characteristic of the image intensifier assembly and should not be confused with emission points. Scintillation is more pronounced under low light conditions.

Sometimes called ”video noise.”

SHADING. Each monocular should present a full circle. If shading is present, you will not see a fully circular image. Shading is indicative of a dying photocathode and is caused by a defective vacuum seal of the image intensifier. Shading is very dark and you cannot see an image through it. Do not confuse shading with variations in “output brightness.”

VIDEO NOISE. See “scintillation.”

WARNING. Conditions, practices, or procedures that must be observed to avoid personal injury or loss of life.

ZERO-TIME BATTERY. A battery that has not exceeded its shelf life and has never been used.

1-13

Section II. Equipment Description

1-10 EQUIPMENT CHARACTERISTICS, CAPABILITIES,

AND FEATURES

The ANVIS is a helmet-mounted passive binocular that provides the capability for pilots to fly in terrain flight modes at night. The system amplifies ambient light from sources such as the moon, stars, and skyglow so the viewed scene becomes clearly visible to the operator. The ANVIS can be used with the SPH-4, SPH-4B, and the HGU-56/P helmets when equipped with an ANVIS helmet mount. The ANVIS has the following important features:

• Powered by batteries or on-board aircraft power converter.

• A light emitting diode (LED) on the visor mount comes on or blinks if the battery voltage drops below safe limits.

• Adjusts for eye-span, vertical distance, tilt, eye relief, diopter setting, and focus.

• Binocular may be flipped up and stored away from the eyes in an emergency.

The ANVIS is an effective night vision system designed for night operations, but does have the following limitations:

• The equipment requires some ambient light (moonlight, star light, or artificial light, etc.) to operate. The level of performance depends on the level of light.

• Ambient light may be reduced by such factors as passing cloud cover and objects that produce shadows.

• The equipment is less effective viewing into shadows and other darkened areas.

1-14

• The equipment is less effective viewing through rain, fog, sleet, snow, smoke, and other reflective material.

• Adjust speed and altitude to prevent overflying the field-of-view when conditions of possible reduction or loss of vision exist.

• Exercise extreme caution when flying over low-contrast terrain such as snow-covered territory, sandy desert environments, large bodies of water, or grassy hills.

Under ambient starlight conditions, low-contrast environments degrade visibility, thereby disguising or masking changes in the terrain. This is especially true under low light conditions (e.g., starlight and overcast starlight) and higher speeds.

• Exercise extreme caution when flying from high ambient light conditions to low ambient light conditions. Under low light conditions, the goggles lose some of the resolution that they have under highlight conditions.

Flying from highlight to low light conditions quickly reduces the sharpness and definition of terrain images.

• Some goggles may experience a measurable loss of performance at temperatures above 100°F (38°C). This is caused by ambient heat beginning to increase thermonic emissions of the photocathode. If this begins to occur, it will appear as though you are looking through eyeglasses that are starting to fog or develop a slight haze.

• The equipment has a field-of-view limited to 40°, which requires appropriate continuous side-to-side head movements.

1-15

1-11 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF MAJOR

COMPONENTS

a. Binocular Assembly. The binocular assembly (see Figure

1-4) consists of two identical monoculars mounted under a pivot and adjustment shelf (PAS). The monoculars may be tilted, moved sideways (eye span), or fore-and-aft. Each monocular is comprised of three primary subassemblies:

objective lens assembly, monocular housing with image intensifier assembly, and an eyepiece lens assembly. A new subassembly has been added to the AN/AVS-6(V)1 series which will replace a combination of the pivot adjustment shelf and two image intensifier housings. For the AN/AVS-6(V)1 series, the fore-and-aft slide assembly is located in the middle of the PAS; for the AN/AVS-6(V)2, the fore-and-aft slide assembly is offset on the PAS. The binocular assembly attaches to the helmet by means of a helmet mount assembly. The binocular assembly can also be used with the clip-on power source (COPS) for hand held operation.

Figure 1-4. Binocular Assembly.

1-16

b. SPH-4/4A Centered Mount. This component (see Figure 1-

5) replaces the standard visor guard on the SPH-4/4A helmet. It contains a vertical adjustment for moving the binocular up or down and also allows the binocular to be stowed in the position away from the eyes. It also permits the binocular to be pulled off or to break away during a crash load of 10g or more. The bottom of the mount incorporates a low-battery indicator (an LED) that either comes on or blinks (depending on the model of power pack) to alert the pilot when remaining battery life is approximately 30 minutes. The mount also provides the electrical contacts for the binocular. This mount can also be used on the IHADSS helmet when equipped with an adapter kit.

Figure 1-5. SPH-4 Series Mount.

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c. SPH-4B and HGU-56/P Centered Mount. The mount (see Figure 1-6) attaches directly to the four pre-drilled holes in the visor of the SPH-4B or the HGU-56/P helmets. It contains the same adjustments and features as the mount described above.

Figure 1-6. HGU-56/P Mount.

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d. Offset Mount. The Offset Mount (see Figure 1-7) attaches directly to the existing visor guard on helmets that have been modified with the helmet-mounted sighting system. It contains the same adjustment and features as the mount described in b. above.

Figure 1-7. Offset Mount.

e. Power Pack. The power packs contain two battery compartments. Each compartment will hold two AA batteries. The power pack attaches to the back of the helmet and contains the system power switch. See Figure 1-8.

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Figure 1-8. Power Packs.

f. Carrying Case. The carrying case is made of nylon cloth with foam inserts for protecting the binocular and power pack when they are not in use. The carrying case also contains the operator’s manual and lens tissue and some models contain AA battery cartridges for use with the power pack.

g. Shipping and Storage Case. This is a hard case (either aluminum or polyethylene) that is constructed in two sections (top and bottom) and provides a waterproof container to protect the carrying case (with binocular) and mount when stored inside. On the aluminum-alloy case, six fasteners secure the two sections.

On the polyethylene case, the two sections are hinged and four fasteners secure them. Two foam inserts protect the carrying case and mount during shipment or storage. The two types of cases are interchangeable.

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h. Power Converter. The Aircraft Power Converter is permanently attached to the aircraft (where available) and is used to provide power from the aircraft to the ANVIS. It converts 28 Vdc aircraft power to 3.8 Vdc power for use with the ANVIS Power Pack. A press-to-test function is combined with the converter ON/OFF switch (see Figure 1-9). The retractable, quick-disconnect coiled cable connects the converter to the power pack and is designed to breakaway from the converter connector when exiting the aircraft in an emergency situation. It is essential that the quick-disconnect coiled cable be used when the ANVIS Power Pack is connected to the converter. The power converter is not part of the ANVIS.

Figure 1-9. Power Converter.

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1-12 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MODELS

a. Binoculars. There are two models of binoculars. On the AN/AVS-6(V)1 series the fore-and-aft slide assembly is centered on the PAS. On the AN/AVS-6(V)2 the fore-and-aft slide is offset on the PAS. On later versions of both models, there are larger eyepieces to provide 25mm of eye relief instead of 15mm, and the PAS has two eyespan knobs to enable independent eye-span adjustment (see Figure 1-10).

Figure 1-10. Original and Improved ANVIS.

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b. Mounts. Refer to Figures 1-5, 1-6, and 1-7. Mounts are available depending on the type of helmet used. The mount for the SPH-4/4A helmet consists of a visor guard with attached mount and uses P/N 5002530. This mount can also be used on the IHADSS helmet when an adapter kit is installed. The mount for the SPH-4B and HGU-56/P uses P/N A3260913 and attaches directly to the four predrilled holes in the visor.

c. Power Pack. Refer to Figure 1-8. The power packs accept only AA alkaline or AA 1.5 volt lithium L91 batteries and draw the power for the low-battery indicator from the compartment with the highest voltage.

The power packs that produce a steady low-battery indicator can be identified by a “-G1” or a “-G2” suffix after the part number 300680. The part number can be found on the identification label.

There is a circuit card inside some of the power packs that will make the low-battery indicator blink. The power packs that have a “-G3” suffix added to the 300680 part number, and those with part numbers 5008900 and A3279600, contain the “blinking” circuitry.

d. Low-Battery Indicator. The ANVIS incorporates a red LED at the base of the mount (or offset mount) that comes on when active battery voltage drops to 2.2 - 2.4 Vdc, signaling the user to switch the ON-OFF-ON switch on the power pack to the reserve (secondary) battery compartment. With some power packs (refer to para. 1-12c above), the low-battery indicator LED will blink. This is a normal function; nothing is wrong with the system.

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e. Differences between AN/AVS-6(V)1 series and AN/AVS- 6(V)2 systems binoculars. The most significant difference between the AN/AVS-6(V)1 and the AN/AVS-6(V)1A models is the mount and the image intensifier tube assemblies. The AN/AVS- 6(V)1 comes with the MX-10160 tube, which has a resolution of 36-45 lp/mm. The AN/AVS-6(V)1A uses a newer MX-10160 tube, which has a minimum resolution of 64 lp/mm. The AN/AVS-6(V)1 comes with a visor guard that replaces the guard on the SPH-4/4A helmet. The mount for the AN/AVS-6(V)1A attaches directly to the four pre-drilled holes in the visor of the SPH-4B and the HGU-56/P helmets. (Mount installation procedures are to be performed by Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) personnel only.)

On the AN/AVS-6(V)1 series binoculars, the fore and aft slide assembly is centered on the PAS. On the AN/AVS-6(V)2 binoculars, the fore and aft slide is offset on the PAS. On later versions of both models, larger eyepieces have been fitted to provide 25mm of eye relief instead of the normal 15mm eye relief.

The PAS has also been fitted with two eyespan knobs to enable independent eyespan adjustment.

The AN/AVS-6(V)1A comes with a clip-on power source, which uses two AA alkaline, or two AA L91 lithium 1.5 vdc (6135-01-333- 6101) batteries allowing the use of the binoculars without attachment to the mount and external power pack. The clip-on power source can be used with any AN/AVS-6(V)1 series or (V)2 systems binoculars.

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1-13 EQUIPMENT DATA

The following tables provide information pertaining to the operational, electrical, mechanical, optical, and environmental characteristics of the ANVIS.

Table 1-3. Operator Adjustment Limits.

NOTE

The vertical adjustment mechanism is located on the ANVIS mount assembly (see Figure 1-11).

Some mounts have been modified to allow extended vertical travel beyond the original 16mm limit to 25mm total travel limit.

ITEM

LIMITS

Vertical

16mm or 25mm Total Travel

Fore and Aft Original Version 16mm Total Travel Improved Version 27mm Total Travel

Eye Span 52mm to 72 mm Tilt 8° to 10° Total Travel Eyepiece Focus +2 to –6 Diopters Objective Focus 28cm (±3cm) to Infinity

Care must be taken not to cause damage to the binocular assembly by forcing to check extreme limits (i.e., +2 to –6 diopters).

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Table 1-4. Electrical Data.

DATA

Voltage Requirements

3.0 vdc Nominal Current Drawn by Binocular 400 mA Peak, 100 mA

Steady State

Battery, AA Alkaline Voltage 1.5 vdc (two batteries required for

3.0 vdc) Cell Life (two batteries) Until low-battery indicator turns on 100°F 10 to 22 hours 70°F 10 to 22 hours 0°F 5 to 10 hours -20°F 1 to 3 hours

Battery, AA Lithium L91

Voltage 1.5 vdc (two batteries required for

3.0 vdc)

Cell Life (two batteries) Until low-battery indicator turns on 100°F 34.8 hours 70°F 34.2 hours 0°F 28 hours -20°F 20.5 hours

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Table 1-5. Mechanical Data.

Binocular Breakaway Force Binocular Weight

10g to 15g Force

15mm Eyepiece 550 grams (19.4 ounces) 25mm Eyepiece

590 grams (20.8 ounces)

Table 1-6. Optical Data.

Objective Focus Range

28 cm (± 3 cm) to Infinity

Eyepiece Focus Range +2 to –6 Diopters Magnification Unity (1X) Field-of-View 40°

Table 1-7. Environmental Data.

Operating Temperature

-89.6°F (-32°C) to + 125.6°F (+52°C)

Storage Temperature Original Version -95°F (-35°C) to + 159.8°F (+71°C) Improved Version -89.6°F (-32°C) to + 185°F (+85°C)

Illumination Required Overcast Starlight to Moonlight

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Section III. Principles of Operation

1-14 MECHANICAL FUNCTIONS

The mechanical functions of the ANVIS allow for differences in the physical features of individual operators and provide for operating the system. These functions include on-off power, adjustment for eye-span distance, vertical travel, tilt angle, fore-and-aft adjustment for eye relief, eyepiece focus, and objective lens focus.

The mechanical controls are identified in Figure 1-11.

Figure 1-11. Mechanical Functions for the ANVIS.

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1-15 OPTICAL FUNCTIONS

The binocular is an electro-optical system consisting of two monoculars with identical optical trains and functions (see Figure 1-12).

Each monocular has an objective lens, and image intensifier assembly, and an eyepiece lens. The objective lens collects the ambient light reflected from the scene by the moon, stars, or night sky, inverts the image and then focuses the image on the image intensifier. Inside the image intensifier, a photocathode converts the light into electrons, a microchannel plate amplifies the electron image, and the electrons then strike a phosphor screen. The phosphor screen creates a visible image, which in turn is re-inverted by fiber optics and transmitted to the eyepiece where the operator can see the intensified image in its proper 1:1 perspective (unity magnification).

Figure 1-12. Optical Function Diagram.

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1-16 ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT FUNCTION

The electronic circuit regulates the direct-current voltage from either aircraft power or batteries to the image intensifier assemblies as required. It also monitors the output voltage of the batteries and turns on a low-battery indicator when the battery life is approximately 30 minutes (2.4 vdc).

a. Power Source. The electronic circuit is powered by either on-board aircraft power or replaceable batteries. If aircraft power is used, a power converter (permanently mounted to the aircraft) furnishes 3.8 Vdc to the power pack where it is stepped down to approximately 3.0 Vdc. The power pack accepts either AA 1.5 volt alkaline or AA 1.5 volt lithium L91 batteries (two per cartridge).

The ANVIS binocular can also be powered by a clip-on power source (COPS).

b. Electrical Function. Power from the batteries is supplied to the components through the power pack’s 3-position, ON-OFF-ON, switch as follows:

ON Position (Right) - Power is drawn from the right battery compartment to energize the binocular.

When the voltage drops to 2.4 vdc, a low-battery indicator at the base of the mount assembly comes on indicating approximately 30 minutes of operating time left on that battery compartment.

OFF Position - With the switch in the OFF position, the circuit is not energized from either battery compartment.

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ON Position (Left) - Power is drawn from the left battery compartment to energize the binocular. When the voltage drops to

2.4 vdc, a low-battery indicator at the base of the mount assembly comes on indicating approximately 30 minutes of operating time left on that battery compartment.

With the switch in either ON position, power from the battery compartment is applied through the power cable, through the matching contacts in the mount to the fore-and-aft slide assembly contact on the PAS and to a flexible circuit board inside the PAS to the matching contacts inside the monocular housings to the image intensifier assemblies. See Figure 1-13.

Figure 1-13. Electrical Function of the ANVIS.

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If the power pack is connected to aircraft power, DC power is supplied to the image intensifiers through the power pack and its ON-OFF-ON switch. When using aircraft power, you must put good batteries in the power pack and place the ON-OFF-ON switch in the initial ON position. Therefore, if aircraft power is suddenly lost, the power pack will automatically provide battery power to keep the image intensifiers functioning.

c. Image Intensifier Power Supply Function. The power supply inside the image intensifier assembly (refer to Figure 1-13) converts the 3.0 volts from the power pack to the voltages required by the photocathode, microchannel plate (MCP), and phosphor screen. The power supply also provides automatic brightness control (ABC) and bright-source protection (BSP). Under highlight conditions, the ABC automatically reduces the voltages to the MCP to keep the image intensifier’s brightness within a set limit. The effect of this function may be seen when rapidly changing from low light to highlight conditions; the image gets brighter and then after a momentary delay, suddenly dims slightly to a constant level. The BSP functions reduce the voltage to the photocathode when the goggles are exposed to bright light sources. The BSP feature protects the image intensifier from damage and enhances its life;

however, it also has the effect of lowering resolution. Therefore, under bright conditions when you would not normally use the goggles, the image produced is not sharp.

Occasionally an image intensifier may be encountered that will operate at a much higher than normal gain for the first 30 or 40 seconds after power is applied. If a bright light source appears in the field-of-view during that time, the portion of the screen exposed to that light would revert back to normal gain. The contrast between the high-gain and normal-gain portions of the image causes the exposed areas to appear as dark spots or streaks depending on whether the light source is stationary or moving through the image. However, most or all of this effect will fade within a few minutes as the image tube area gradually reverts back to normal gain over its entire area. A tube with this effect will repeat the sequence each time it is powered up.

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d. Low-Battery Indicator. Power for the low-battery indicator is drawn from the battery compartment that has the highest voltage. The power pack accepts either AA 1.5 Vdc lithium or AA 1.5 Vdc alkaline batteries. Some power packs make the red indicator light blink. Power packs that have part numbers 300680- G3, 5008900 and A3279600, contain the “blinking” circuitry.

CHAPTER 2

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Section I. Description and Use of Operator’s Controls and Indicators

Extreme care must be taken when using this electro-optic equipment. Do not drop the ANVIS on any hard surface. Dropping the system could result in equipment failure.

If the equipment fails to operate, refer to the Troubleshooting Procedures in Chapter 3, Section II.

2-1 OPERATOR CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

The ANVIS is designed to adjust for differences in head shape and corrects for most differences in eyesight. The controls and adjustments for the AN/AVS-6(V)1 Series and AN/AVS-6(V)2 are the same. Figure 2-1 and Table 2-1 describe the controls and indicators.

2-2

Figure 2-1. Illustration of Operator Controls and Indicators.

2-3

Table 2-1. Operator Controls and Indicators.

Controls and Indicators

Function

ON-OFF-ON Switch

ON – binocular on; power drawn from battery compartment to which switch points.

OFF – binocular off.

ON – binocular on; power drawn from battery compartment to which switch points.

Objective Focus Ring(s)

Focuses the objective lenses. Adjust for sharpest view of scene. Travel for the objective lens focus ring is 1/3 turn.

Eyepiece Focus Ring(s)

Focuses the eyepiece lenses to adjust for difference in eyesight. Adjust for sharpest image. Travel for the eyepiece focus ring varies among eyepieces.

Eye-Span Adjustment Knob(s)

Adjusts for different spacing between operators’ eyes. If your ANVIS has independent eye-span adjustment, the left knob moves the left monocular and the right knob moves the right monocular. Turn the knob(s) to move the eyepieces together or apart for optimal spacing.

2-4

Table 2-1. Operator Controls and Indicators – Continued.

Controls and Indicators

Function

Fore-and-Aft Adjustment Knob

Adjusts for optimal viewing of the field-of-view. Turn the knob to obtain a full view of the image. Adjust the binocular as close as possible to your eyes to maximize the field-of-view, yet maintain your peripheral view and “look under” capability.

Vertical Adjustment Knob

Moves the binocular up or down in a vertical direction. Turn the knob to center the eyepieces in front of the eyes.

Tilt Lever Allows the binocular to be tilted up or down. Move the lever to obtain the optimum line-of-sight viewing.

Lock-Release Button Press the lock-release button to rotate the binocular up or down.

Low-Battery Indicator When illuminated, it indicates a low-battery condition with less than 30 minutes of battery life remaining.

2-5

Section II. Operator’s Checks

2-2 OPERATOR’S CHECKS TABLE

a. General. Table 2-2 has been provided so you can keep your equipment in good operating condition and ready for its primary mission.

b. Warnings and Cautions. Always observe the WARNINGS and CAUTIONS appearing in the table. Warnings and Cautions appear before applicable procedures. You must observe the warnings and cautions to prevent serious injury to yourself and others, or to prevent your equipment from being damaged.

c. Explanation of Table Entries.

(1) Step: Column. Step numbers are included to assist you in performing the checks.

(2) Item to Check: Column. This column provides the location and the item to be checked.

(3) Procedure: Column. This column gives the procedure you must do to check or service the item listed in the Location/Check column to know if the equipment is ready or available for its intended mission or for operation.

(4) Not Usable If: Column. Information in this column tells you what faults will keep your equipment from being capable of performing its primary mission. If you make checks that show faults listed in this column, do not operate the equipment. Follow standard operating procedures for maintaining the equipment or reporting equipment failure.

d. Other Table Entries. Be sure to observe all special information and notes that appear in your table.

2-6

NOT USABLE IF:

Not current.

Fault not corrected.

Power Pack cracked.

PROCEDURE

BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS

Open carrying case, inventory items and check the DA Form 2408-30 to see if the following are current or completed:

• 6 month (+/- 18 days) service is current.

• Grounding (red ”x”) condition on DA Form 2408-30 present.

If the aircraft connector cap is missing, the Power Pack is still operable; it does not affect its function.