Abstract: Device for rapidly and automatically deploying and retracting a combiner attached to a visored helmet. A combination of opposing springs, one made from conventional materials and the other from shape memory alloy (SMA), effects a detent mechanism and the retracting and deploying mechanism. The conventional spring normally exerts a greater force than the SMA spring, but the latter exerts the greater force upon being heated, preferably by means of an electric current passing through the spring. Alternative deployment and retraction means include a solenoid-conventional spring combination or an electrical motor which used in conjunction with a locking and unlocking means incorporating a SMA spring.