Due to the peculiarities of the structure of the eyes, people are not able to clearly distinguish objects on which light does not fall. This creates certain difficulties in navigating the terrain and performing certain actions in the dark. To eliminate this shortcoming, night vision technology was invented. This direction is constantly evolving, which leads to the emergence of new trends.
Where do we need night vision technology?
Night vision is a technology that can compensate for the inability of the human eye to clearly distinguish objects in the dark. Due to a large number of advantages and a minimum of disadvantages, it is actively used in various fields of activity and brings many benefits to people.
Scope of NV technologies:
- Driving. Night vision technology has long been an integral part of the driver’s equipment. Many well-known manufacturers of such optics produce dozens of models of devices (mainly glasses) designed for driving a car at night. The use of such optics makes it possible to see the road better, even in places where artificial lighting is completely absent, and to avoid any troubles. In addition, NV technologies minimize the likelihood of traffic accidents.
- Aviation. Modern devices using night vision technology help pilots fly in the dark. Especially often, it is used by helicopter pilots. With its help, it is possible to go around all obstacles during landing or climbing. It is these phases of flight that are the most dangerous and often lead to emergencies. Aircraft also use similar technologies. Often they are part of the onboard equipment designed to simplify the work of the pilot. You can also find a night vision device on unmanned aerial vehicles. In this case, the devices help to get a better night picture of the area.
- Security. Night vision is widely used by security organizations. With its help, it is possible to conduct round-the-clock monitoring of a particular object, as well as to monitor the adjacent territory. Especially often, NV technologies are used at secret facilities, access to which is strictly limited. Also, night vision helps security guards in the dark to keep order in crowded places and identify violators.
- Search and rescue operations. Night vision technology is indispensable during operations to search for missing people. Its use makes it possible to inspect a large area around the clock and save hundreds of human lives. Most often, NV technologies are used in mountainous areas and in forests.
- Scientific activity. Some animal species are exclusively nocturnal. To get to know it better and to study all its features, experts use night vision devices. These devices make it possible to observe representatives of the fauna without the use of any lighting devices that can frighten or create discomfort for the animals. Also, with their help, you can shoot videos and take many high-quality photos.
- Hunting and fishing. Fans of both these hobbies are also actively using modern technologies that allow them to see at night. With their help, hunters navigate the terrain, track down potential prey, carefully aim and shoot, and fishermen look for the best places to cast a fishing rod and go around various water obstacles when moving on a boat.
- Tourism. Some travelers prefer to make multi-day hiking trips. These activities provide for a complete merger with nature, even at night. In order not to go astray during this period of the day and not get into trouble, tourists often use night vision devices. They help to navigate the terrain and find the right direction of movement.
- Military sphere. Night vision is indispensable in the army. They are used everywhere, helping army units to carry out combat missions in the dark. This technology will be especially useful in carrying out intelligence activities and protecting the state border. She will also show herself well during maneuvers in places with minimal illumination.
- Repair work. Damage to water conduits, gas pipelines, and other similar facilities requires immediate repair. Night vision devices are sometimes used to conduct it in the dark. They help to find the problem faster and fix it as soon as possible.
- Night work at the enterprise. Some industrial enterprises operate around the clock. To increase work efficiency at night, employees are often given night vision goggles. With their help, it is possible to cope with the tasks set even in conditions of minimal illumination, as well as carry out work on the street.
- Construction. The construction of various objects must be completed exactly on time. Therefore, if any delays occur, work must be performed at night. In this case, NV technologies will be useful for builders, with the help of which many different manipulations can be carried out.
- Entertainment. Night vision goggles can not only help you get the job done but also entertain you. In the second case, they are used during military tactical games, various competitions, and events held in the dark.
Current trends in night vision technology and their application
Night vision technology is used to perform a wide variety of tasks. It shows itself well in periodic and everyday use and also helps to cope with the most responsible assignments. This direction is constantly evolving, which inevitably leads to the emergence of new trends.
Current trends:
- Combination with thermal imaging. Many manufacturers of optical devices that help to see at night use this combination to universalize their products. With its help, it is possible to create devices that can simultaneously produce a standard night (with increased brightness and illumination) and a thermal image, as well as superimpose them one on top of the other. The result is a picture with maximum detail, on which you can easily see living and inanimate objects. This trend is especially supported by the military. It allows them to perform their tasks more efficiently and minimize losses during combat operations. A combination with thermal imaging will be no less useful for representatives of a dozen other professions (for example, rescuers, scientists, security guards, and drivers).
- Getting rid of wires. Wireless devices are now in trend. This applies not only to night vision devices but also to many modern gadgets. The absence of wires makes the use of such devices more convenient and opens up wide opportunities for users. In addition, wireless technologies make the devices used more mobile, compact, and light.
- Reduced size and weight. This trend is typical for all modern devices. Their manufacturers are trying to minimize the size of the case and reduce the weight of each part used. The result is very small and lightweight products that are comfortable to use and carry around for a long time. They are ideal for military rescuers, security guards, and backpackers who prefer to travel at night.
- Simplify management. This trend is also important for modern users. The maximum simplification of night vision device control allows to speed up the process of its adaptation to changing operating conditions. Also, the absence of the need for long-term adjustment reduces the time spent on bringing the device in use into working condition.
- Quality improvement. All modern devices using night vision technology are made of high-quality materials. This improves reliability and extends their service life. The latter allows you to use one device for a long time, thereby saving money (no need to buy a new device often).
- Striving for cost reduction. Most manufacturers of night vision devices are trying to make their products available not only to rich people but also to buyers with relatively small financial resources. In this regard, they produce models in different price categories that can satisfy the needs of everyone. The desire to reduce the cost is also due to high competition in the global market. To attract the attention of buyers, manufacturers reduce the price of their products as much as possible, trying not to worsen their quality.
Modern technology makes it possible for a person to see in the dark. This direction is developing rapidly, and more advanced devices are becoming available to people. With their help, it is possible to perform a lot of useful work in the dark. To keep abreast of all the innovations, you need to monitor the current trends in this area regularly. This will open access to a large amount of useful information and make it possible to keep up with the times.