Patent attributes
An improved helmet mounting device for an optical device, such as a night vision device, is provided. The mounting device herein includes sliding carriage arms and a pivot member for pivoting the viewing device up and away from the user's line of sight. In the depicted preferred embodiments, an optional reinforced mounting fastener system is provided. In another aspect, a movable sensor element may provided on the helmet mount for controlling operation of an attached vision device. In still further embodiments, a breakaway mechanism is provided which allows the user to select between a rigid attachment between the helmet and the optical device and a breakaway attachment wherein the optical device will break away from the helmet when an applied force exceeds a threshold amount of force.