Survey of helmet tracking technologies

Helmet-mounted sight systems track the helmet angular orientation, thereby allowing the user to readily point weapons and sensors or to cue viewing among crew members. Most helmet- mounted display applications require that the helmet orientation be measured so that the displayed information can be properly presented. Helmet-mounted sights, also referred to as head trackers or helmet trackers, have been mechanized using a variety of technologies, each having apparent advantages. The leading technology candidates include magnetic, electro- optic, and ultrasonic head tracking systems. The selection of a particular concept is usually dependent on the specific application and the associated operational requirements. A technology overview is presented describing various electro-optic, ultrasonic, and magnetic mechanizations that have been developed. The performance characteristics are summarized with an indication of the strengths and weaknesses inherent in each approach.