Heads Up Displays, or HUDs, are methods of displaying important information in front of a person while they looking through their windshield.  In the case of aircraft, a HUD is seen by the pilot as a virtual image right on the windshield of the aircraft.  It allows the pilot to focus on the view ahead yet see graphical information that would normally be viewed on dash board instruments.  This is especially important during critical military flight situations where rapid assimilation of data is important - think dogfights.

So, could they be just as important in automobiles and trucks as in aircraft? Some argue that HUDs in automobiles could be just as important.  Just think of some of the notifications that come through your cell phone now. Some of it is very important and with a HUD, some of this data can be displayed right in front of you so you don't need to take your eyes off the road.

Although HUD technology is still a relatively new in the marketplace, our friends at Kayser explain that there are two different versions out right now: factory-installed HUDs and third-party HUDs. Here's what you need to know:

Factory Installed HUDs

HUDs are being are being actively promoted on some exclusive cars now. The 2016 Audi A7, the Mercedes S55, and a dozen or so GM vehicles currently can be optioned with HUD technology.  It's a compelling option, any new calls, emails, or texts will automatically be shown by the HUD adding an immeasurable level of safety and security to the driving experience.

And some automakers, like Jaguar, Hyundai, and Land Rover, are showcasing next-generation HUDs that not only show you the vehicles speed, but can also do things such as highlighting pertinent street signs around the car, displaying the turn you need to take on the actual road ahead, and even flashing warning signals when an accident may be imminent.

Third-party HUDs

Several third party HUD units are available .  These small boxes are individual units that are meant to sit on your dashboard and project on your windshield. Most third-party HUDs work by linking to either your phone's internal GPS or find a signal of their own from a satellite to geo-locate your vehicle.  For now, HUDs made by individual companies for aftermarket use are only capable of displaying a rudimentary speedometer and other functions. This could all change very soon, however, thanks to the crowdfunding-backed HUD projection system: Navdy.  

The Navdy HUD doesn't project the information directly on your windshield, though. The fold-out box actually contains its own small screen that's meant to sit at the base of where your eyes rest while driving. The Navdy comes with a range of apps that can be connected via your phone, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Spotify, all of which can be controlled via quick hand-gestures thanks to the unit's internal camera.

As with any technology in its infancy, expect lots of changes in the HUD marketplace.  The Navdy system is ambitious but illustrates the things that we may find routine in HUD technology just a few years from now. 

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