Another advanced motorcycle helmet is seeking crowdfunding on Indigogo, and it is most likely the helmet of the future. It features two HUD transparent LCD displays, dual rear-view cameras, acoustic and visual traffic alerts, solar panel, high-end interior speakers, Bluetooth, and electro-tint visor. If the crowdfunding campaign succeeds, the iC-R is expected to retail for $1,400 (€1,250). Click through to learn more about the project.
iC-R features an e-tint visor
There are several startups that are developing state-of-the-art helmets and aftermarket accessories that can/could save many lives on the road. We already reported about Skully, but other companies around the world are working on similar projects, too. The newest advanced motorcycle helmet comes from Virginia, U.S. and it’s called the iC-R.
„The idea of the iC-R Helmet was first thought of while driving to work one day, and I took notice to a number of motorcyclists that happened to be traveling in the same direction I was.” says Ambrose Dodson, founder of the project. „ What I observed was the motorcyclists needing to always physically turn their head whenever they needed to do a lane change, and that’s when it hit me. I said to myself there has to be a safer way for these riders to ride. That’s when the idea was born. I wanted to make a motorcycle helmet that would completely eliminate the need for motorcyclists to turn their heads; ensuring their utmost safety when attempting to change lanes. Since then (through endless brainstorming and research) the idea has evolved into something some might have thought to be unimaginable, but most of all something that has never been done before. Over time this idea has moved from just a product idea…to a Brand. My goal is to build Intelligent Cranium Helmets for motorcyclists”, he continues.
HUD
Key features of the helmet:
Two HUD displays: These heads-up display lenses provide a projected split view of all real time video streaming from the two rear-view cameras, as well as mobile software related functions such as: Incoming Calls, Navigation, Rider Speed/Rider Telemetry, and much more.
LED Interior Notification Lighting: This interior lighting acts as a notification system and is integrated with an ARS (Assisted Rider Software) and internal sensors. There are two LED colors supporting this system which are Amber & Red. The LED lighting system works in tandem with a warning sound and/or vibration inside the helmet. The soft Amber color means “Warning”; which will blink in 2 second intervals when a vehicle gets within 420 ft. (130m) This feature is also accompanied by a warning sound and/or vibration (optional) inside the helmet. – The Red color means “Danger”; which will blink in 1 second intervals when a vehicle gets within 240 ft (73m). (Note: These warning distances have been calculated based on speed of travel). This feature is also accompanied by a warning sound and/or vibration (optional) inside the helmet. Both colors will be visible, but not as to blind or distract the rider while on the road.
The helmet can detect vehicles behind the motorcycle
Software: The software center is the brain of the motorcycle helmet and where all the magic happens. The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) will come with a very high level of security baked in. The software center will offer Bluetooth Smart/LE, OTA software updates, Open SDK (for custom mobile application development) capabilities and much more.
Two Rear-view Cameras: The Two Rear-View Cameras are strategically placed, and share a total field of view of 210° allowing the rider to see a wider view of what is behind him or her; completely removing the need for the rider to take his or her eyes off the road ahead.
Power Port: This Power Port is built into the rear of the helmet acting as the primary power source, and is in place to allow the helmet and all internal components to be charged and always operational; in the event there is lack of sufficient solar energy throughout the riders day.
Solar Panel: This Solar Panel is built into the top of the helmet acting as the secondary power source; allowing the helmet and all internal components to be charged and always operational while the rider is riding the motorcycle.
View from the iC-R
E-Tint Visor: This e-tint visor is the latest advancement in tint technology & will come standard on all iC-R Helmets. E-tint allows for the fastest response in tinting your visor when you need it. Low voltage is applied to the liquid crystal system and in less than a second you experience darker tint. Safety features include a “fail safe” mechanism which allows the insert to default to clear in the event of a power failure.
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Bluetooth: This Bluetooth feature will work in tandem with the iC-R Cloud app allowing any rider with an iC-R Helmet to share their location with other riders and link with riders nearby and begin two-way communication via voice activation. The app will provide each rider with an audio & visual prompt to connect. Both riders must accept in order to connect with each other.
Mobile App: The iC-R Cloud mobile app will link and work in tandem with the iC-R Software Center. This app will boast a number of internal features such as: a Maps section which will provide Navigation, Radar, Riding Conditions, Traffic Patterns, Fuel Stations, & more. It also allow riders sharing their location via Bluetooth LE to see & connect with other riders nearby through text or voice communication.
