When BMW introduced their newest helmet prototype with HUD technology, the company was not that eager to reveal who was behind the transparent display and the technology that brings it to life. However, we can now confirm that the fellows with whom BMW is developing their new generations of helmets are DigiLens, a top-ranking company in the field of holographic optical waveguide technology.
DigiLens is already supplying parts and technology to military, medical, automotive, and other high-tech niches, with the motorcycling world being next in line.
The HUD technology is already proven for use inside passenger cars, but DigiLens is still a long way from having it integrated AND homologated for motorcycle helmets.
Perusing DigiLens' website we also learned that what BMW showed us is still far from the final design. In fact, DigiLens is running a design competition that is aimed at revealing the most interesting and functional ideas that could be implemented in the future helmets.
The first HUD bike helmet is expected in 2017
From display layouts to other aspects, DigiLens is looking forward to being able to deliver the optimal design for BMW's helmets, but things don't stop here.
DigiLens' head-up display for motorcycles is a concept that needs to be easy to implement in pretty much any other helmets. The first evaluations of the project revealed that the display in front of the eye is transparent enough not to hinder vision, but now the game moved on to another area.
Namely, the amount of data being streamed to the display and its graphic attributes must be tested the same way. DigiLens needs to understand to what degree a rider may be distracted by the extra visual data in challenging situations.
Judging by the current progress of the whole project, DigiLens estimates that the HUD helmets powered by their technology could arrive as soon as 2017. So far, they have also perfected magnetic installation in helmets and battery hotswapping, but more goodies can be expected.
Until then, head over to DigiLens' web home and enter their design contest. There are cool prizes to be won, including BMW riding gear.
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