CADDRE Publications (research funded fully or partially by CADDRE)

The night vision goggle training apparatus simulates the size, feel and handling of actual night vision goggles. A narrow band-width green filter is positioned over the viewing port, to simulate nighttime viewing conditions. The image intensification system used in night vision goggles is eliminated; limiting use of the training goggles to daytime use. The out of balance weight of the night vision goggles is identical to actual night vision goggles. Brightness control is simulated by attenuation filters that fit over the objective lens. The blooming effect of lights is simulated with a star filter. A thin, fine mesh screen is used to simulate reduced acuity, scintillation and ghosting effects during low light or rapid motion, which occur during use of actual night vision goggles. The objective focus and diopter adjustment are identical to night vision goggles. The cost per unit is about ten to twenty percent of the cost of actual night vision goggles, enabling a large force to be trained in the use of night vision goggles prior to deployment of the more expensive actual night vision goggles. The durability and life cycle of the night vision training goggles is greatly increased over actual night vision goggles. The field of view, magnification, acuity, weight, monochrome image color, depth perception, helmet/head mount assemblies, faceplate and eyecups of the simulated night vision goggles is similar or identical to actual night vision goggles.