Skip Talbot
EF5
I thought I would open up a discussion about HUDs (Heads Up Displays) as I'm starting to day dream about new gadgets to get during the off season. I know several auto manufacturers install HUDs on various models. I've seen a corvette with one and it looks pretty slick. I also know there are some add-on units you can buy for your car as well. The displays typically only show digital output from gauges you'd find on the dashboard, however. Has anyone come across a unit that can accept a DVI/VGA input so you can use your own software with it?
I was also thinking about what it would take to construct one yourself. You would need some sort of transparent/reflective screen on the windshield, perhaps something like this: http://www.gizmag.com/go/7612/ and then a conventional digital project that you mount on the ceiling of the car or on the console. Imagine if you had a HUD as big as your windshield with Street Atlas and GRLevel3 running on it. It would be complete awareness of the chase situation without looking away from what's in front of you.
Of course that leaves big questions about how safe, practical, and legal such a setup would be. I think if you can produce a display that isn't too distracting, and doesn't conflict with what you see on the road, it should be no different than the current HUDs being used in cars for navigational purposes. Anybody have any thoughts or insights?
I was also thinking about what it would take to construct one yourself. You would need some sort of transparent/reflective screen on the windshield, perhaps something like this: http://www.gizmag.com/go/7612/ and then a conventional digital project that you mount on the ceiling of the car or on the console. Imagine if you had a HUD as big as your windshield with Street Atlas and GRLevel3 running on it. It would be complete awareness of the chase situation without looking away from what's in front of you.
Of course that leaves big questions about how safe, practical, and legal such a setup would be. I think if you can produce a display that isn't too distracting, and doesn't conflict with what you see on the road, it should be no different than the current HUDs being used in cars for navigational purposes. Anybody have any thoughts or insights?
