[simpits-tech] Off Axis collimated 'out the window' displays

[D E]

I have for some time been looking into the idea of creating a mirror system 
for the out-the-window view of my flightdeck.  This would involve the 
construction of a custom structure/outhouse for the flightdeck and for the 
parabolic style mirror.   I am designing the mirror shape on CAD & Will look 
into ways of how a mirrored surface could be made. Thought about using 
Mirror on a roll - with the problems of it going on to a curved surface + 
joins etc. Ideally i'd want some kind of reflective coating.  Almost like 
chroming? but obviously a nice cheap alternative.  I've sometimes seen a 
mirror-like reflective coating on plastics - i wonder if this is an option?  
  Got any Ideas?

Has anyone else on the group thought about making this kind of display?   I 
think the effort would pay off, as long as the design is correct and 
accurate and the build is precise. My time scale for such a project is 
loooooong - long enough to get it right and  long enough to spread the 
costs.  I don't want it to cost an arm and a leg - flying becomes more 
tricky with only one of each.

On a cross collimated flight deck ... Does the mirror create a focal point 
and if so where?

Am i correct in saying that - if you are between the mirror and the focal 
point (the principle focus), the image formed is larger than the original 
object, upright and appears to be behind the mirrored surface?

Here are a few websites links to look at:-

http://www.glassmountain.com/images/crewview2.jpg

http://www.physics.uq.edu.au/people/mcintyre/vergences/optics/go_notes/go_mirr.html

http://www.opticalphysics.com/current.htm

http://www.seos.co.uk/images/products/pan/panor.pdf

Hope to hear your comments/ideas on this,
Best wishes,
Derek
d_p_e@hotmail.com


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