Saturday, January 03, 2004

Technology Tuesday 12/16/03

A HUD On Every Helmet

In the past few years, the technology to manufacture a wearable HUD has dropped significantly in price--so much, in fact, that Seattle-based Motion Research has been able to develop the low-cost SportVue, a lightweight visor-mounted display unit that gets its data from a GPS "pod" mounted on the back of the helmet. The system adds less than 6 ounces to a helmet and won't weigh you down with a second mortgage, or two.

The SportVue display and the GPS unit communicate via a custom RF link, eliminating the need to run wires between the two. That means easier, cleaner installation. The display unit attaches to the helmet using a Snell-approved "break away" clip, while the GPS transceiver pod is bonded to the helmet.

Once installed, the display projects real-time data into the rider's field of vision. The data appears at a distance so refocusing your eyes is not an issue, allowing your attention to stay on the road. Real-time information such as speed and distance are continually updated.

Motion Research plans to make a bicycle-helmet version available sometime after the initial rollout of the motorcycle model. That system will display the rider's speed, distance traveled and heart rate, all for an estimated price of $150 to $199.

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Edward A. Villarreal. Powered by Blogger.

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