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Aerospace Optics has long been recognized throughout the aviation industry for offering technology-based solutions that continue to meet the changing requirements for cockpit illumination and rugged/high reliability operator interface. Today, we continue to break ground in new areas such as the reduction of power consumption, improving installation efficiencies and ensuring maintenance-free operation. We are proud that our innovations continue to set aviation industry standards.
An industry leader
1968
Aerospace Optics Inc. is incorporated in Fort Worth, Texas, as a manufacturer of “build to print” Mil-Spec lighted products, including edge-lighted panels, knobs and annunciators for use in aircraft cockpits.
1970s
Aerospace Optics develops and implements systems that enhance its reputation for quality products and defect-free parts. The company introduces the VIVISUN 99 illuminated pushbutton switch, which features incandescent bulb lighting, and revolutionizes aircraft crew station lighting with sunlight readability. Importantly, it gained immediate acceptance as the de facto standard in aircraft crew station lighting in both the military and commercial aircraft markets.
Late 1970s - 1980s
Technological innovations continue with the VIVISUN 99, including drip-proof/dust-proof, split-ground, EMI and night vision goggle compatibility options. The switch qualifies as a Mil-Spec pushbutton switch and is listed on the Qualified Products List for the U.S. Department of Defense, cementing Aerospace Optics’ reputation as a leader in industry innovation.
1982
In 1982 Aerospace Optics installed its in-house customer service computer system to assure error-free order entry along with its already recognized high quality products.
1983
Aerospace Optics moves to a new 32,000 square-foot facility on a 15-acre campus in Fort Worth, Texas, and continues to grow market share with both commercial and military aviation customers.
1987
Aerospace Optics introduces the VIVISUN 95, which features all the options available on previous products, plus provides a QUIK-CONNECT™ system to improve assembly line installation. A space-saving version of the switch is introduced for added flexibility in tight quarters, and VIVISUN switches gain additional exposure on marine vessels and ground vehicles.
1988
The company introduces its first programmable multifunction display pushbutton switch – the VIVISUN 2000, which is also the first switch to use a Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting source.
1990s
With a full product line available, engineering innovations continue and market penetration increases. Product improvements in areas such as reliability, increased color selection, custom artwork and pulse-width modulation enhance the VIVISUN brand.
1992
The VIVISUN 5000 multi-function, programmable switch advances sunlight readability still further with LED lighting and NVIS compliance.
2001
Aerospace Optics launches its most advanced lighted pushbutton switch: the VIVISUN LED, which is introduced to the marketplace as the ultimate solution for maintenance free, sunlight readable, NVIS compatible, lighted pushbutton switch technology.
2002
Aerospace Optics continues to be the only vendor to consistently deliver its LED product on time, as promised, to a growing list of aircraft industry customers in both military and commercial market segments. Product performance is exceeded only by the company’s commitment to quality customer service.
2007
Aerospace Optics expands VIVISUN product line, introduces LR3, a 1-inch by 1.2 inch, LED switch. The LR3 is a MIL-PRF certified, lighted pushbutton switch that is available in 11 sunlight-readable colors. The larger LR3 switch is NVIS compliant, has voltage controlled dimming, a low touch temperature and low power consumption, drawing a maximum of only 0.054 amps at 28VDC.
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