ROCKWELL HAS unveiled a voice-controlled, body-worn notebook computer called the Trekker, which it believes has wide-ranging applications for the aerospace industry. Initial uses include running customised, paperless aircraft-maintenance software.
The Trekker is operated as a hands-free, mobile information system, based on standard personal-computer circuitry and Windows software, and has a 25 x 25mm liquid-crystal monocular head-up display which "floats" a full-size virtual image ahead of its wearer. The wearer can "navigate" through on-screen interactive instruction sequences and parts catalogues using voice commands and has an unimpeded view of his task.
The Trekker is being evaluated by the UK Ministry of Defence to speed up helicopter maintenance, and is also being tested by American Airlines, Boeing and the US Air Force.
Source: Flight International
