Typhoon HUD (space model)

The Typhoon HUD has a single element combiner using new computer generated holographic techniques to take out the distortion. The Combiner assembly features a single element comprising two glass plates bonded to produce a flat parallel sided assembly. A complex reflective holographic optical element (HOE) is recorded on photosensitised gelatine on the spherical interface sandwiched in the assembly which acts as the collimating Combiner. The construction optics to manufacture the HOE incorporate a CGH that generates a phase shape that could not be done using conventional lenses.

The combiner is also flat which minimises real world distortion and provides a total field of view (TFoV) of 30deg x 25deg with an instantaneous field of view (IFOV) of 30deg x 20deg.

This design is capable of cursive, raster and hybrid operation with a sunlight readable raster display. The minimal support structure gives a remarkably clear out-of-cockpit view optimal for air-to-air combat. The two seat variant has a similar HUD in the rear seat which can display video from the forward HUD camera. This design represents probably the `ultimate HUD' in service to date in a combat aircraft. The key feature is integrity such that the pilot no longer needs to monitor the HUD against other instruments thus reducing workload compared to Tornado for example.

In 1990 the Company was awarded a £54million contract in which the Airborne Display Division lead a consortium with Teldix GmbH of Germany, Selenia of Italy, and CESELSA of Spain,  to develop the EFA Pilot’s Head Up Display.

The RAA contains a number of models of equipment and aircraft. The equipment models were used as a marketing aid and often to ensure that the production unit will fit in the space; this was particularly true for Head Up Displays. Such equipment models will have minimal or no functionality. Models might  just be used as weighted units or as cockpit lighting evaluation units. The HUD used on the YF-16 was of the correct weight and envelope but only mounted the Spin 'chute button (a feature only required for the early test flights). Many of these models were made by professional model makers from the original drawings and could be quite expensive; alternatively the real hardware would be used.

The aircraft models range from the simple small scale kits to quite large display items. The large model aircraft were often a marketing tool from places like Airbus or Boeing but may be found in Boardrooms or Reception areas wheras the small models may be given as a visitor handout. Those models made from kits have largely been brought in from home but are useful to illustrate the platform alongside the equipment. The large models will be hugely expensive.