Nuviz is a small device that attaches itself to your helmet and projects a HUD just out of sight. This little device even has a camera for taking picture and video (Photo via Nuviz)
I was sitting around thinking up ideas for the IoT on Wheels design challenge when I thought a HUD would be cool. Doing some research, this HUD came up fist. It’s good inspiration.
Riding around town on a scooter, moped, or motorcycle can be a thrilling experience. And in the latter case, it makes you look cool, but with these vehicles come extra precautions to keep in mind. Unlike a car, you aren’t surrounded by layers of metal and steel and accidents can be nasty. This is why keeping distractions to a minimum while on a bike is important. But this can be difficult when you have to look down at your gages. So, what’s the best solution? How about Nuviz, “the first fully integrated Head-up Display (HUD)” that fits on your helmet?
The small device, which is apparently the first of its kind in the world, fits on your helmet and shows your speed, navigation, maps, calls, and music via a small mirrored see-thru display. While it’s not in your direct line of sight, it sits below the vision-line of your right eye so it’s east to glance at, yet can be ignored almost completely. The microdisplay sits 13 feet in front of your face, and it adjusts its brightness based on its surroundings. The Nuviz also supports audio and includes a headset that can either be installed in a helmet or can be synced to Bluetooth enabled helmets.
Nuviz works with a smartphone app that’s compatible with Android OS and iOS 10.2 and works with a variety of full-face helmets. It won’t fit every helmet on the market, but its range is still pretty wide. The device also comes with a controller that attaches to the left handlebar. You use this to scroll through Nuviz’s main features and its surrounded by four action buttons.
If you’re taking a ride and get the urge to shoot some pictures or videos, Nuviz is equipped with an 8-megapixel camera, which works with the controller. It lets you record your trip with ease, but keep in mind the quality isn’t the best. The 1080p video quality is similar to older smartphones than a GoPro camera, but if you’re not picky, it’s more useful than pulling over and whipping out your smartphone.
While Nuviz is supposed to minimize distractions, it may best be saved for long trips out of the city. The device isn’t meant to be used for short trips or riding in congested cities. But if you’re taking a road trip out on the open road then it might be what you’re looking for. And if you need to switch helmets or don’t want to leave it on your bike while grabbing food, the device is easy to remove and reattach.
Nuviz is now available for US riders for $700. If the technology works as well as its promising, maybe the technology can be adapted for other uses. Imagine playing video games or laser tag with this advantage.
Have a story tip? Message me at: cabe(at)element14(dot)com
