Aviat to Offer Forward.Vision's EVS on Huskys

Aviat Aircraft intends to make Forward.Vision's EVS (enhanced vision system) available as optional equipment on new Huskys or as a retrofit item for existing Huskys, making them the first manufacturer to offer the system.

Forward.Vision's EVS-100 responds to long-wave infrared, providing pilots with a non-cryogenically cooled system, which the company says can extend what the naked eye can see in snow storms, fog, haze, smoke or total darkness, by at least eight times.

The system is not intended to provide increased instrument approach capability in low visibility, as is the case with more capable EFVS (enhanced flight vision systems) that are certified for that purpose.

The system's infrared sensor, which weighs 1.2 pounds, and is mounted on top of the aircraft, functions like a video camera to provide a 40-degree wide image that can be displayed in various cockpit locations.

The "camera" is a hermetically sealed package that has been put through a dry nitrogen purge to prevent moisture and dust from entering the sensors. It has integral window heaters to prevent ice build-up and a sensor to protect the unit if the aircraft is pointed toward the sun.

The system is set up to run independently, minimizing impact on pilot workload.  Co-developed with technology partner Max-Viz the product life has been tested to, and is projected to be greater than 9,000 hours.  It has been designed to run maintenance free during its operating life.

Aviat Aircraft is offering the system installed on new Huskys and will retrofit the units in earlier Husky models for $22,000.  07-23-2007.

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