Ever tried to land a helicopter on a slippery deck in heavy seas, high winds and rain?
This nightmare scenario is played out regularly despite the risk factor - which has now been significantly, reduced thanks to a new Guardian helmet-mounted display system which gives pilots a better view of their landing procedures.
Comprising a new optical head tracker and electronic drive unit, the helmet has a high-definition display and has been designed to minimise obstruction of the pilot's field of view. The system uses symbols which are specifically designed to show the pilot when the deck is safe for landings; what his position over the deck is; and when the aircraft is 'locked' in position.
The new helmet kit has been developed through joint research between Britain's Defence Evaluation and Research Agency at Bedford, UK; glass-maker and defence electro-optical equipment specialist Pilkington Optronics from Glasgow; and Kentron of South Africa. Pilkington and Kentron are jointly developing the British company's Guardian helmet-mounted display system.
Source: Flight Daily News