Night vision compatible and sunlight readable, lighted, word indicating

Abstract

A pushbutton switch having an illuminated display or other instrumentation data or control display device is made compatible both with unassisted night time vision of the display as well as vision assisted by a night vision imaging system or night vision goggles. The display is backed with a plurality of selectively activated light sources. Each light source is characterized by a spectral range. At least one of the light sources has a spectral range compatible with the night vision imaging system. At least another one of the light sources has a spectral range compatible with unassisted night vision. In the preferred embodiment, the light source is comprised of a conventional incandescent bulb disposed within a domed glass filter. The domed glass filter has a spectral transmissivity which is compatible with the night vision imaging system. In particular, the filter has a transmissivity approximately equal to either ANVIS Green A, ANVIS Green B, or Yellow. The light source compatible with unassisted night vision is comprised of a conventional incandescent bulb disposed in a domed filter having a spectral transmissivity within the red portion of the spectrum. The display may be selectively illuminated by any one of the ANVIS colors, a combination of the ANVIS colors, or by the red night light. Therefore, every displayed instrumentation device within the cockpit of an aircraft may be immediately converted from conventional night vision illumination to one compatible with night vision goggles.