Embedded Training (ET) is an objective requirement of current and future force fighting vehicles. The goal of ET is to allow vehicle crew members to train anywhere at anytime with little or no training-unique components in the vehicles. Switchable Vision Blocks (SVBs) are a key technology for "train-as-you-fight" ET. Applied research during the past five years has established the feasibility of using SVBs as a visual interface for ET (Montoya et al., 2007). However, SVBs must compete with other technologies to earn their way into tactical armored vehicles, such as the Stryker family of vehicles and the Abrams family of tanks.

This paper describes the results of additional developments to transform the basic SVB into a multi-modal viewing device that can earn its place in tactical armored vehicles. This new SVB design is a multidimensional viewing device that supports the following three functions: 1) the conventional vision block function, 2) an ET function, and 3) an enhanced operational and situational awareness function, particularly for displaying night-vision systems video products, as well as for overlaying displays of symbology.

This paper also describes efforts to adapt the technology for use in the driver station of several current force fighting vehicles, including the Abrams, the Bradley, and the Stryker. After examining the physical environment of these three classes, the Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle was selected as the vehicle of choice. The target application of the SVB is embedded driver training and the presentation of night-vision systems video products. The ability of the SVB to rapidly switch modes without moving parts makes it an attractive alternative to night-vision goggles, particularly in environments with disruptive changes in lighting.