Inscription(s):
GEC Avionics Limited
Video Map Generator
Part 25-046-01
Ser 0140
NSN 5821-99-477-2546
Code K0656
Modification Record 1
Software Part Number -04A
KT735
[comprising these modules:]
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GEC Avionics Limited
Map Manip. Unit
Part 29-108-01
Ser 0141
NSN 6821-99-119-1964
Code K0656
Modification Record 1
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GEC Avionics Limited
MMU Chassis Wired
Part 75-31773
Ser 0166
NSN 5821-99-751-7855
Code K0656
Modification Record -
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GEC Avionics Limited
Power Supply and Fan Assy
Part 20-00795-01-01 Iss J
Ser 118
NSN 5821-99-562-7300
Code K0656
Modification Record -
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GEC Avionics Limited
Database Unit
Part 29-107-01
Ser 0156
NSN 5821-99-617-3141
Code K0656
Modification Record -
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GEC Avionics Limited
Power Supply and Fan Assy
Part 20-00795-01-01 Iss J
Ser 118
NSN 5821-99-562-7300
Code K0656
Modification Record -
Notes:
In 1987 a solid-state Digital Colour Map Unit (DCMU) which can reproduce colour maps in the cockpit was selected for the RAF's Harrier GR 7. The order, placed by the Ministry of Defence (PE) on Guidance Systems Division, was the world s first such solid state mapping system and was won against strong international competition The new navigational aid superseded the previous generation of electromechanical, film-based map displays - the Jaguar generation, and has been developed over several years using experience gained in flight testing in the UK and the US
The contract for the DCMU required it to be produced to very tight timescales and satisfy the requirements of the GR 7 development and production programme, was worth over £7 million. It was hoped that the system would have considerable export potential and GEC Avionics is demonstrated the DCMU worldwide, aimed at a number of other advanced navigational requirements. A Company database shows a variant part number (25-046-02) allotted to the C-130.
The system stores the information presented on a conventional paper map and reproduces it faithfully on an electronic colour display in the cockpit. In the Harrier, this is a multifunction display, the map information being one of several modes available to the pilot. The colour map complements the Company night vision system, already chosen for this aircraft
The DCMU which has no moving parts, is all housed in one avionics box. The unit can store map data representing an area the size of Europe as well as being able to store different scale maps. Such a high density of information was made possible by data compression techniques developed by the Company, which were unique to this equipment
The unit derives its data from conventional paper maps which are digitised from separate feature planes These can be modified to delete unnecessary information and can also be colour modified to suit ambient lighting conditions; compatibility with night vision goggles being a major consideration
The map displayed to the pilot moves in relation to aircraft position m either track up' or 'north up orientation The pilot, at the touch of a button, can zoom the map to show either more detail or a larger area He also has the ability to 'look ahead' as well as being able to select different scales of map The unit will also carry mission overlay information m full colour, with which the pilot can see planned tracks turning points, known targets and intelligence information such as the positions of friendly and hostile forces
