Augmented Reality Helmet: The Era of Multi-Purpose Smart Helmets

Augmented reality is a technology that combines virtual information with the real world. This technology combines multimedia, 3D modeling, real-time tracking, intelligent interaction, and sensing to cast virtual reality into the real world.

Several devices can be used to experience augmented reality, be it smartphones, AR glasses, or wearable devices.  A smart helmet is a key standout device developed to experience the artificial world. 

This guide explores the concept of augmented reality helmets and their significance in the modern world. We will discuss the wide range of applications for augmented reality helmets across different industries and activities.

Notable applications of AR helmets include; the field of motorcycles, bike helmets, and construction helmets among others. Let’s get into the details.

Augmented Reality Helmets

An AR Helmet is a type of personal protective device that is revolutionizing the way users and workers operate across different industries. These helmets use technology to overlay digital information on a user’s field of view and provide real-time data and instructions to help them be safer and more effective. 

There are different uses for these helmets, and the most notable ones include the following;

• Providing real-time information about the environment. These helmets can display information about the surroundings, obstacles, hazards, or directions. Such information can be used to help one stay safe.

• Providing instructions and guidance – AR helmets can display instructions and offer guidance on tasks such as assembling or repairing machinery. Such information can be quite useful in helping users be more effective and productive.

• Providing training and education – AR helmets can provide training and other forms of education to workers. Such information can help workers learn new skills and stay updated with safety guidelines.

• Monitoring health and safety – AR helmets can be used to monitor the health and safety of workers, by relaying information on heart rate and fatigue, among others. They can come in handy when it comes to preventing injuries and illnesses.

Most Common Types of AR Helmets

As technology advances, so does the potential of AR helmets. There are diverse types of augmented reality helmets, each with its own application. AR helmets have the potential to improve safety in various industries significantly.

Workers are provided with real-time information on any potential hazards that might be within the vicinity. These helmets can also improve productivity with instructions and guidance on tasks. 

Here are some of the most common types of AR helmets.

1. AR Motorcycle Helmets

The world of augmented reality motorcycle helmets presents you with a heads-up vision right in front of you. These helmets are designed to provide cyclists with real-time information without the need to divert their attention from the road.  

You get turn-by-turn navigation projected into your vision with notifications on what you need to do next. Some motorcycle AR helmets include collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and weather alerts.

2. Bike AR helmets

These helmets are used to display information such as speed, elevation, and navigation. Cyclists can use this information for their safety and also improve their performance. Some bike AR helmets also come with features such as gradient prompts, turn-by-turn directions, and heart rate monitoring. 

3. Construction AR helmets

Construction AR helmets are designed for use in construction environments. These helmets display information such as safety instructions, blueprints, and real-time hazards.

Workers can use this information for their safety and avoid common accidents. Some construction AR helmets also include location tracking, fall detection, and real-time communication. 

4. Military AR helmets

Military AR helmets are designed to be used by soldiers in combat settings. They are used to display information such as enemy locations, potential hazards, and friendly forces.

Soldiers can use the information they collect to make informed decisions in combat situations. Some of these headsets also come equipped with features such as thermal imaging, night vision, and communication systems. 

5. Industrial AR Helmets

Industrial AR helmets are designed for use in different industrial settings. The helmets typically display information such as real-time data on machinery and equipment, education and training, and health and safety monitoring data. 

Workers can use this information to enhance their service delivery, productivity, and safety. Some industrial AR helmets have facial recognition features, AR training, and gesture control.

Key Takeaway

The augmented reality headset revolution is firmly underway, and here are some notable takeaways we can draw from this technology.

• AR helmets are powerful tools that can be used to improve safety, productivity, and training in various industries.

• There are a wide variety of AR helmet use cases depending on the specific industry and needs of their workers.

• Some of the most common AR helmet use cases include providing real-time information about specific environments, providing guidance and instructions, training and education, and monitoring workers’ health and safety.

• AR helmets are still in the very early stages of development, but they have a massive potential to revolutionize personal protective equipment space.

• As AR technology continues to evolve and develop, we can expect to see more innovation and advances in the years to come.

If you are in the market to purchase an AR helmet, be certain to look at issues such as the cost of the helmet, battery life, weight, and privacy.

These helmets collect a lot of data about the wearer, such as their location, facial expressions, and eye movement among others. Be sure of the type of data being collected, so that you are comfortable with the same.

The intersection of augmented reality and helmets has been nothing but remarkable.  The role of traditional helmets was to purposely protect the head. Smart helmets have evolved into multi-purpose smart devices that offer a wide array of applications across different industries and activities.

AR helmets blend the physical and digital worlds to enrich our experiences and capabilities. These helmets have found use by different people, be it motorcycle enthusiasts, or industrial workers, among others.