To tie in with Matthew's wishlist, I would like to see synthetic vision systems integrated into the aircraft to the point where there will be virtually no instrument panel, perhaps one screen mounted between the seats for control purposes and the rest of the information either being projected onto the actual windscreen or into a large HUD. This would keep pilots eyes outside the cockpit where they should be, would eliminate the need for instrument scanning and visibility requirements would be obsolete. With a combination of FLIR, terrain and mapping data, low light systems and wire avoidance radar, all relevant information could be presented to the pilot on the HUD. Taking the instrument panel away from the traditional position would also improve visibility immensely in VFR conditions. If the mapping software is accurate and updated, the wire avoidance radar would also be obsolete since the navigation system would already be aware of where the wires are and show them on the HUD.
Touch screen technology, coupled navigation systems and autopilot would enable the pilot to touch the relevant waypoints he wants to use on the screen to make the man/machine interface more efficient. A cursor, controlled with a mouse or joystick mounted on the controls, could serve the same purpose and could also be used on the HUD to mark a waypoint or LZ. Using the coupled autopilot, the pilot could mark the LZ visually using the cursor in the HUD, decide what approach angle would be safest and the autopilot could do the flying to the hover at a specific height, leaving the pilot to look around and ensure the area is clear, safe and big enough without having to concentrate on the flying too. The map database would show known wires or obstructions to assist in planning the approach. The SAR boys already use something similar in concept.
All of the above technology exists and is getting smaller and lighter all the time. If integrated, many of the current instruments would be replaced, saving weight from the instruments themselves as well as the required wiring. The F22 Raptor does not even have radios, they are integrated into the computers computers and similar technology could be used to replace many of the traditional instruments. A VSI using GPS / laser gyro inputs instead of atmospheric changes would be accurate, same could be done with the altimeter and ASI.
The Super Puma variant I flew had an elastic stop on the collective, surely this could be made into a variable elastic stop based on ambient conditions being received into the ADC or from the FLI, as used on some of the Eurocopter series. Would keep eyes outside and provide another warning of approaching limits besides the current visual/audio cues used.
Great idea Nick, I hope I am around long enough to use some of the stuff being built now, exciting times.