[Avionics Today 08-17-2016] The global aircraft Synthetic Vision System (SVS) market will grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.3 percent between 2016 and 2020, according to a new Research and Markets report.
Developments in product range will be a key trend for SVS market growth. Major vendors are developing a new and improved range of SVS products for diverse aircraft. For instance, in 2012, Honeywell developed a CVS, which combines synthetic vision with infrared imagery and creates an improved experience for lower landing minima.
Rockwell Collins is another company developing its own range of SVS, which is expected to offer practical and operational advantages mainly for retrofitting systems on transport or business aircraft. Additionally, the company is also targeting lighter aircraft with its new compact HGS-350 HUD with synthetic vision. Companies such as Cobham provide SVS for both fixed-wing and rotorcraft and are also considering the requirements for aircraft retrofit and modernization.
According to the report, one of the key drivers for market growth will be the increasing research and development investments by NASA, which has been at the forefront of the SVS research program, with participation from institutions such as Avionics Engineering Center for Synthetic Vision Research, NASA’s Langley Research Center, researchers from FAA and DOD, and several industry teams.
Issues associated with database integrity will be a challenge for the market, however. As SVS are dependent on a stored database, the latest changes in external terrain, runways or urban features may not be displayed. In addition, the infrared camera used in Enhanced Vision System (EVS) cannot see through clouds and fog.