Vision Systems offers a grab bag of innovative goodies for helicopter operators. A tier 1 supplier, Lyon, France-based Vision Systems (Booth 5404) has a production unit in Florida and is showing its composite cyclic sticks; foul-weather windows and doors; helicopter subsystems; inflight entertainment (IFE) equipment; and a family of solar-protection products, including cockpit blinds, cabin shades and electronically dimmable window technologies.

The company has placed its focus on refining processes such as resin-transfer molding (RTM), thermocompression, thermoforming and drape forming. The result is a family of products that Vision Systems describes as easy to install and maintain and recognized as best-in-class by customers, including Airbus Helicopters.

For example, Vision Systems cyclic sticks are made from composite RTM material, enabling designers to form the complex geometries while maximizing strength and minimizing weight. The all-weather windows are made by combining thermocompression and drape-forming techniques, resulting in windows with high optical quality that are resistant to vibration and impact.

The IFE system on display at Heli-Expo is described as a “scalable and flexible solution” allowing customers to tailor the system to meet their needs. Buyers can customize the user interface and VIP options for work and entertainment, including varying configurations. The system works with a single box and can incorporate hard-wired HD screens or interface wirelessly with mobile devices. External cameras are also available for monitoring and recording the view outside.

Vision Systems electronically dimmable windows (EDWs) do double duty, providing solar protection as well as privacy. They can dim from clear to dark in three seconds, reducing glare and heat inside the helicopter, and they help conserve energy by reducing the need for air-conditioning. Fully dimmed, the EDWs block 99.9 percent of ultraviolet light. Controlled via touch panels or even passengers’ mobile devices, the system has no moving parts, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. Current EDWs are available in flat or curved windows, and the system is available in multizone configuration, customizable with different colors and tints and also in graduated darkness from top to bottom or vice versa. Vision Systems EDWs can also be combined with motorized roller or pleated shades, bringing warmer design elements to the helicopter cabin.