Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT; TASE: ESLT) has launched a new safety device to be fitted in aircraft pilots' helmets. Called Canary, the product is an integrated physiological monitoring device for pilots, providing real-time alerts in case of in-flight life-threatening situations.
Elbit says that in extreme cases, such as hypoxia or loss of consciousness, a warning will appear, either as an audio-visual alert on the pilot’s Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) or via the aircraft's mission computer using the HMD interfaces. The alert will allow the pilot to react before losing conscious or, in case the pilot is unable to operate the aircraft, facilitate recovery of the pilot and the aircraft by engaging the auto pilot.
The new system was developed using sensors technology from Israeli start-up company LifeBEAM, with support from the Israeli Ministry of Defense. It will be integrated into Elbit Systems helmet and HMD systems, and does not require any pilot interference or action.
Elbit Systems Aerospace Division general manager Yoram Shmuely said, "Pilots may be exposed to life-threatening medical conditions during flight due to low levels of oxygen (known as hypoxia). Modern aircraft may cause G-induced loss of consciousness (GLOC) and other physiological conditions (extreme fatigue, dehydration, etc.) which are a common cause of accidents with no reliable warning or recovery solution available. We believe that our new system will solve these problems and save pilots' lives.”
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on June 15, 2015
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