Glass Mountain Optics manufactures a wide range of monitor-based collimated display systems designed to provide the user with an "out of window" display. These collimated display systems are often referred to as W.A.C. (Wide Angle Collimated) window displays. Their purpose is to display a scene with realistic depth-of-field cues for the pilot/operator.
Each display unit consists of a mechanical structure called a collimator, which contains a high quality spherical mirror, coated beamsplitter, and a high resolution monitor replacement projector (MRP). These components are factory aligned by Glass Mountain Optics’ technicians and held in place by a rigid structure designed for motion-based simulator platforms.
Collimators are designed in three broad categories, depending on the customer’s needs:
Stand Alone System (Single Window)
A stand alone collimator is designed to provide the user with a high quality view through a single window. The collimator frame is square as viewed from above and slightly oversized to allow greater head motion. Stand alone systems use a fairly simple monitor design and are available in every size monitor that Glass Mountain Optics offers.
Juxtaposed with Channel Separation (Multiple Window)
Wider horizontal fields of view are possible by juxtaposing or connecting several collimators together, side-by-side, with baffles between the mirrors. This provides an inexpensive means of having a "continuous" scene across multiple systems. Baffles allow for less critical alignment tolerances and a simple monitor design, with remote capability for ease of alignment. These systems offer the best price/performance ratio.
Juxtaposed with No Separation (Multiple Window)
Similar to the above system except without baffles between collimators. Adjacent mirror and beamsplitter edges are aligned flush to present a "seamless" image across the scene. Projector images are overlapped using precise geometry control and alignment. This type of system is designed for the most demanding visual system requirements.
Major Components and Features
WAC window systems come in three sizes: 20, 26, and 29 inch collimators. Each collimator channel includes the following:
- High resolution monitor replacement projector (MRP)
- Precision collimating mirror
- High performance beamsplitter
- Self-contained, motion compatible housing
- Complete assembly and alignment at the factory, ready for immediate installation
Features:
- Swing out mirror for access to all major components
- Minimal maintenance requirements allow for maximum utilization
- Images appear focused at infinity for greater realism
- Ruggedized system is fully motion compatible
- Available as "Commercial Off The Shelf" (COTS) products for reliable and timely delivery
- Maximum design flexibility
- MRP will accept most video signals
The Wide Angle Collimator is designed to offer the simulation industry a truly modular display system, giving customers maximum flexibility in system configuration while providing the highest level of performance. The wide angle C-20 S allows ample head motion for single window applications. For multi-window applications, Glass Mountain Optics’ juxtaposed designs yield a continuous horizontal field of view. Modular designs provide maximum purchasing flexibility by allowing single window systems to be expanded into multi-window systems as requirements change or funding becomes available.
The Wide Angle Collimator includes several advanced technologies designed to provide maximum performance and minimum life cycle costs. The system includes a fully adjustable mirror, beamsplitter and monitor to ensure proper component alignment. Our uniquely designed swing out mirror allows for simple routine maintenance and offers complete access to all major components while maintaining precise optical alignment.