iHUD

iHUD is an application (app) that turns the iPhone 3G and 3GS, iPhone 4, iPad & iPad II, and - with limited features the iPod touch 2nd generation and higher *) - into an aerospace-inspired mobile Glass Cockpit.  iHUD derives its name from Head-Up Display, which depicts motion and flight-related pertinent guidance information and data for optimal situational awareness.

A Glass Cockpit usually features an AHRS and an EFIS for visualization of position, attitude, attitude changes, track and acceleration of the vehicle in space and time.  AHRS means Attitude and Heading Reference System.   AHRS delivers primary spatial motion information to the pilot.  EFIS means Electronic Flight Information System, which displays the obtained information in the Glass Cockpit, also known as a Multi Function Display (MFD).

iHUD depicts an extraordinary graphic interface with a simulated horizon and a vehicle reference symbol, dynamic speed, altitude, and vertical velocity ribbons and digital display window, rotating compass card with user selectable heading bug, slip/skid ball, and an accelerometer (G-meter). iHUD is a fun experience for everybody who likes to see motion and forces acting on the vehicle they are riding on. Try it on a giant roller coaster (just don't let go of the iPhone!).

iHUD offers a fantastic way to teach, see, and learn EFIS and partially AHRS functionality in the classroom on-the-fly.

iHUD on an iPhone 3GS

Important note: A limitation of this basic version of iHUD is that the horizon depends on the on-board accelerometers only. This means that the horizon does not display the earth horizon as a reference of a vehicle in an accelerated attitude. It will display the acceleration of the vehicle only. Therefore, never ever use this version of iHUD for in-flight operations to visualize attitude other than pitch and roll. We are currently studying the possibility to mathematically model an algorithm to address this situation.