By Greig Murray
August 29 2002

Michael Schumacher is set to trial a revolutionary new F1 helmet developed alongside his supplier Schuberth. The five times world champion is set to test a new technique that would give him a big advantage over his rivals if the system works as planned.

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Schuberth and BMW have developed a data information helmet for Ralf Schumacher, but older brother Michael is set to go one stage further. The new laser helmet has been in experimental stages for a couple of years now aimed at assisting motorcyclists and the knowledge gathered is to be put to aiding Michael Schumacher.

The system comprises of micro-crystals inside the visor of the helmet and its heart is a global positioning system (GPS) this will determine his exact position on the track with the aid of a sensor within the helmet’s shell. All this means that if Schumacher drives a perfect lap the display will show this line of the circuit on his visor by means of lasers. This will allow him to follow the ideal line time and time again. The helmet will also detect head movements by the driver to ensure that the line always remains precise.

No date has been set for when or if this laser helmet will appear on the shoulders of Michael Schumacher but he is very keen to put it to the test. It is expected that the new helmet will show its true advantages in a wet race where it will be ideal for a driver who is basically blinded by the elements.

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