Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of helmets and, more particularly to a helmet for providing safety to a rider along with the usage of smart technologies.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A helmet is a protective head-shaped structure that works as a head shield while driving a vehicle such as a motorcycle or a bicycle.
[0003] Many people face issues while riding a motorcycle for long hours because it creates fatigue, which is a major cause of motorcycle accidents. Due to the limited comforts and safety features of the motorcycle compared to a four-wheeler vehicle, the riders may doze off while riding, leading to fatal accidents. To overcome these difficulties, many technologies and features are added to the helmet worn by the rider while driving the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0004] Some music streaming features are added with the helmet that is regulated by the rider by using a push button. This push-button is placed on the helmet that is turned on or off according to the need of the rider and by the rider. But it creates inconvenience while riding and disturbs the focus of the rider.
[0005] In the past, a walkie-talkie using a common frequency network or a mobile phone using a mobile communication network has been used as a communication tool configured with the helmet. However, such a communication tool has been difficult to use by the riders because they have to use their hands to use these devices which is not possible while driving the motorbike.
[0006] While several Bluetooth communication devices are available in the market today, these systems are relatively expensive. The limited battery life of these devices is another drawback as they must be recharged frequently.
[0007] For example, US8688040B2 discloses a Bluetooth headset for a helmet having an inter-communication. The Bluetooth headset includes a headset body configured to be mounted on a helmet, a microphone and a speaker that are configured to be installed on the headset body, a jog dial configured to be installed to perform a rotation operation and be subject to a push operation, a Bluetooth module configured to be accommodated in the headset body and to perform wireless communication while paired with an external Bluetooth device, and a control unit configured to be accommodated in the headset body to process a signal input from the microphone, a signal input according to the rotation operation and the push operation of the jog dial and a signal received from the Bluetooth module and output the processed signal to the speaker and the Bluetooth module.
[0008] Although existing systems and devices for improving driver safety while riding the two-wheeler vehicle are generally adequate for their intended purposes, they have not been entirely satisfactory in every aspect that the helmets do not have good aesthetics and that the smart devices placed in the helmet are not neatly packaged so that they do not interfere in the day to day usage of the helmet by the user.
[0009] In light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need to provide a novel helmet.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0010] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a helmet that helps a rider to answer calls, listen to music, and receive navigation instructions from a mobile phone without using their hands while driving.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide the helmet that provides wireless charging to power up the helmet.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide the helmet that is easy to design, economical, and cost-effective.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide the helmet whose parts are modularly fitted so that it is easily assembled and repaired.
[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide the helmet that provides a seamless driving experience to the rider that reduces the chances of road accidents.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0016] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a helmet that is used by a user of a vehicle. The vehicle may be a saddle type vehicle. The helmet includes a helmet main body, a detachable rear unit, and a set of user proximal electronics.
[0017] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the helmet main body further includes a top part, a rear part, a first side part, and a second side part. The top part is a dome shaped part and is configured to fit a head of a user of the helmet. Further, the rear part defines a cavity extending from a portion of the first side part to a portion of the second side part. Further, the cavity is a rectangular shaped cavity.
[0018] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detachable rear unit is configured to be attached to the cavity defined by the rear part of the helmet main body. The detachable rear unit is an arc shaped unit that includes a hollow outer body, and a backplate.
[0019] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the hollow outer body is configured to house a charging module and an alignment unit. The hollow outer body further comprises a centre portion, a first portion and a second portion. Further, the centre portion is disposed in the rear part of the helmet main body. The first portion is disposed in the first side part of the helmet main body. The second portion is disposed in the second side part of the helmet main body. Further, the centre portion of the hollow outer body comprises a first compartment configured to house the charging module, and a second compartment configured to house the alignment unit. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detachable rear unit comprises flanges extending along sides of the first portion, the centre portion and the second portion.
[0020] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the backplate is configured to cover the hollow outer body. Further, the backplate comprises a power source, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and a connection outlet. Further, the connection outlet is a USB-A or USB-C type connector. Further, the backplate is in contact with the cavity defined by the rear part of the helmet main body.
[0021] The backplate of the detachable rear unit comprises snap fit protrusions configured to attach the detachable rear unit to the helmet main body. Further, the backplate comprises an Inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor.
[0022] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the backplate further comprises a backplate centre portion, a backplate first portion and a backplate second portion. Further, the backplate centre portion covers the centre portion of the hollow outer body, the backplate first portion covers the first portion of the hollow outer body, and the backplate second portion covers the second portion of the hollow outer body. Further, an outer surface of the detachable rear unit comprises a light emitting diode (LED) indicator.
[0023] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the set of user proximal electronics comprises a haptics unit that is configured to provide haptics signal to the user of the helmet. Further, the set of user proximal electronics includes at least one speaker, at least one infrared (IR) sensor and a microphone. Further, the at least one speaker is configured to provide information to the user of the helmet in the form of a sound. Further, the at least one speaker is connected to the connection outlet using a speaker wiring harness. The at least one IR sensor is configured to determine wear detection, and the microphone is configured to capture sound. Further, the IR sensor is connected to the connection outlet using an IR sensor wiring harness. Further, an inner surface of the helmet main body defines a first groove to accommodate the speaker wiring harness, a second groove to accommodate the IR sensor wiring harness.
[0024] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an internal padding is disposed inside the helmet main body such that the internal padding is configured to be in contact with the head of the user of the helmet. Further, the internal padding comprises at least two cheek pads in which each of the cheek pads are disposed inside the first side part and the second side part of the helmet main body such that each of the cheek pads interface with the cheek of the user of the helmet.
[0025] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the set of user proximal electronics further comprises an integrated speaker and IR sensor unit. Further, the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit comprises a main housing configured to house the speaker and the IR sensor, an IR sensor cover configured to cover the IR sensor, and an outer fabric configured to cover the speaker. Further, the main housing is in the shape of a right-angled cone comprising a right angled edge and a rounded side.
[0026] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the main housing comprises an integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet, and a microphone outlet. Further, the integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet is configured to allow the passage of an integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit to the connection outlet. Further, the inner surface of the helmet main body defines an integrated groove to accommodate the integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness. Further, the microphone outlet is configured to allow the passage of wiring harness to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit to the microphone.
[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the helmet further includes a chin guard in contact with the helmet main body. Further, the chin guard extends from the first side part to the second side part such that the chin guard and the top part define a front opening. Further, the helmet main body and the chin guard together define an outer shell. Further, the chin guard defines a third groove to accommodate the microphone wiring harness. The microphone is disposed in proximity to the chin guard such that the microphone is around a mouth of the user of the helmet. The chin guard further comprises a shield covering the front opening. The shield is operably movable between an open position and a closed position. Further, the shield provides a heads-up display (HUD).
[0028] These and other aspects herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawing. The foregoing objectives are attained by employing a helmet by providing a seamless driving experience without diverting their attention while riding to use their mobile phone to answer calls manually and use navigation applications and the addition of music on-the-go helps the rider to focus and stay awake throughout the ride.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems, methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g. boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a helmet 100, according to an embodiment of a present invention;
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates an attachment configuration of a detachable rear unit 110 to the helmet main body 102, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective exploded view of the detachable rear unit 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric view of the detachable rear unit 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a backplate 304 of the detachable rear unit 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a set of user proximal electronics 112, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates an interior construction of the helmet 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly of an integrated speaker and IR sensor unit 700, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features.
[0039] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are collected here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those of skill in the art, however, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.
[0040] The articles "a", "an" and "the" are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.
[0041] The terms "comprise" and "comprising" are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as "consists of only". Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps.
[0042] The term "including" is used to mean "including but not limited to". "Including" and "including but not limited to" are used interchangeably. The accompanying drawing is used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the alternatives presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawing. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawing. Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.
[0043] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "may," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain alternatives include, while other alternatives do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more alternatives or that one or more alternatives necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular alternative. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.
[0044] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain alternatives require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a helmet 100, according to an embodiment of a present invention. In an embodiment, the helmet 100 is configured to be to be used by a user of a vehicle, wherein the vehicle is a saddle type vehicle. The helmet 100 includes a helmet main body 102, a detachable rear unit 110, and a set of user proximal electronics 112. The helmet 100 may be a helmet for motocycles or a helmet for bicycles, or any other vehicle in which a user may use the helmet 100.
[0046] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the helmet main body 102 further includes a top part 104, a rear part 106, a first side part 107, and a second side part (not shown). The second side part is the part of the helmet 100 that is opposite to the first side 107.
[0047] The top part 104 is a dome shaped part and is configured to fit a head of a user of the helmet 100. Further, the rear part 106 defines a cavity 108 extending from a portion of the first side part 107 to a portion of the second side part.
[0048] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the cavity 108 is a rectangular shaped cavity. Further, depth of the cavity 108 disposed in the first side part 107 and the second side part is shallower than depth of the cavity 108 disposed in the rear part 106 of the helmet main body 102. Further, the depth of the cavity 108 disposed in the first side part and the second side part tapers away from portion of the cavity 108 disposed in the rear part 106 of the helmet main body 102.
[0049] In another embodiment, the shape of the cavity 108 may be any other geometric shape.
[0050] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the helmet 100 further includes a chin guard 114 in contact with the helmet main body 102. Further, the chin guard 114 extends from the first side part 107 to the second side part such that the chin guard 114 and the top part 102 define a front opening 116. In an embodiment, the helmet main body 102 and the chin guard 114 together define an outer shell. In another embodiment, the helmet main body 102 alone defines an outer shell. Further, the outer shell is made up of anyone or a plastic or a fibre or a combination thereof.
[0051] In an embodiment, the helmet 100 further comprises a shield (not shown in image) covering the front opening 116. The shield is operably movable between an open position and a closed position.
[0052] In an embodiment, the shield is configured to provide a heads-up display (HUD) to the user. The heads-up display provides information corresponding to at least one of the navigation directions, phone alerts, weather reports, among others.
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates an attachment configuration of the detachable rear unit 110 (refer FIG. 1) with the helmet main body 102. The detachable rear unit 110 is configured to be attached to the cavity 108 defined by the rear part 106 of the helmet main body 102. Further, the detachable rear unit 110 acts as a spoiler that provides downforce and improves stability. The detachable rear unit 110 is assembled manually and easily detached when it has to be repaired.
[0054] Referring to FIGs. 3A and 3B adetachable rear unit 110 is an arc shaped unit that includes the hollow outer body 302, and a backplate 304. The hollow outer body 302 is configured to house a charging module 306 and an alignment unit 308. The backplate 304 is configured to cover the hollow outer body 302. The hollow outer body 302 further comprises a centre portion 318, a first portion 316 and a second portion 320. Further, the detachable rear unit 110 is attached to the cavity 108 such that the centre portion 318 is disposed in the rear part 106 of the helmet main body 102, the first portion 316 is disposed in the first side part 107 of the helmet main body 102 and the second portion 320 is disposed in the second side part of the helmet main body 102.
[0055] In an embodiment, the centre portion 318 of the hollow outer body 302 comprises a first compartment 310 (shown in dotted line) configured to house the charging module 306. The centre portion 318 of the hollow outer body 302 further comprises a second compartment 312 (shown in dotted line) configured to house the alignment unit 308.
[0056] In an embodiment, the charging module 306 is a receiver induction coil configured to be wirelessly charged. In an embodiment, the charging module 306 is fastened with an adhesive to ensure minimal offset from an outer surface of the backplate 304. The outer surface is a plastic surface. Further, the alignment unit 308 is a plurality of magnets that is configured to align the helmet 100 in a particular direction while charging the charging module 306. The plurality of magnets is a neodymium magnet. The plurality of magnets includes a left side magnet and a right-side magnet. An additional adhesive is used for attaching the plurality of magnets on the hollow outer body 302.In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detachable rear unit 110 comprises flanges 330 extending along sides of the first portion 316, the centre portion 318, and the second portion 320. Further, the flanges 330 disposed along the sides of the center portion 318 is thicker than the flanges 330 disposed along the sides of the first portion 316 and the second portion 320. Further, the flanges 330 disposed along the sides of the first portion 316 and the second portion 320 tapers away from the flanges 330 disposed along the sides of the center portion 318.
[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective exploded view of the backplate 304 (refer fig.3A) of the detachable rear unit 110 (refer fig.1), according to an embodiment of the present invention. Further, the backplate 304 comprises a power source 402, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 404, and a connection outlet 406. Further, the connection outlet 406 is a USB-A or USB-C type connector. Further, the backplate 304 is in contact with the cavity 108 defined by the rear part 106 of the helmet main body 102.
[0058] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the backplate 304 further comprises a backplate centre portion 410, a backplate first portion 408 and a backplate second portion 412. Further, the backplate centre portion 410 covers the centre portion 318 of the hollow outer body 302, the backplate first portion 408 covers the first portion 316 of the hollow outer body 302, and the backplate second portion 412 covers the second portion 320 of the hollow outer body 302. Further, the backplate centre portion 410 comprises an attachment unit 414 to attach the PCB 404. Further, the attachment unit 414 is crossed ribs comprising fastener bosses 416 at its ends. The backplate first portion 408 comprises an attachment unit 418 to attach the power source 402, wherein the attachment unit 418 is crossed ribs comprising fastener bosses at its ends. Further, the power source 402 is a battery. Further, the battery is a rechargeable battery that is anyone of a Li-On battery, a NI-Cd battery, among others. The backplate second portion 412 houses the connection outlet 406 and a powering device 420. Further, the powering device 420 is a switch.
[0059] In an embodiment, the charging module 306 is configured to be attached to the PCB 404 such that the combination of the charging module 306 and the PCB 404 are attached to the attachment unit 414.
[0060] The backplate 304 (refer fig.3A) of the detachable rear unit 110 (refer fig.1) comprises snap fit protrusions 424 configured to attach the detachable rear unit 110 to the helmet main body 102. Further, the backplate 304 comprises an Inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor 426. Once the backplate 304 is snapped to the helmet main body 102, then it is snapped off only when any unfortunate incident of a rider collision occurs. Further, the IMU sensor 426 is a six-axis IMU sensor and is configured to determine orientation and angle of the helmet 100.
[0061] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an outer surface of the detachable rear unit 110 comprises a light emitting diode (LED) indicator 422. Further, the LED indicator 422 is configured to emit a plurality of colours to provide a multitude of indicators. Further, the multitude of indicators comprises any one of the 402 being charged, low charge in the power source 402, among others.
[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the set of user proximal electronics 112 (refer fig.1), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The set of user proximal electronics 112 comprises a haptics unit that is configured to provide haptics signal to the user of the helmet 100. In an embodiment, the haptics signal may correspond to the rider being notified about a direction change during navigation, or low charge in the power source 402, or incoming calls, among others.
[0063] In an embodiment, the set of user proximal electronics 112 includes at least one speaker 502, at least one infrared (IR) sensor 504, and a microphone 506. Further, the at least one speaker 502 is configured to provide information to the user of the helmet 100 in the form of a sound. In an embodiment, there may be two speakers 502 on each side, a left speaker 502 and a right speaker 502. Further, the at least one speaker 502 is connected to the connection outlet 406 using a speaker wiring harness 530. In an embodiment, there may be two IR sensors 504 on each side, a left IR sensor 504 and a right IR sensor 504. The at least one IR sensor 504 is configured to determine wear detection, and the microphone 506 is configured to capture sound of user. Further, the at least one IR sensor 504 is connected to the connection outlet 406 using an IR sensor wiring harness 530. In an embodiment, the speaker wiring harness 530 and the IR sensor wiring harness 530 may be different harnesses configured to be connected the speaker 502 and the IR sensor 504 to the connection outlet 406. To connect both the harnesses 530, the connection outlet 406 may comprise two USB-A or USB-C type connectors.
[0064] Further, a T shape 508 and L shape profiles 510 are designed to anchor the wiring harness 530 of the at least one speaker 502 and the at least one IR sensor 504 to an inner surface of the helmet main body 102.
[0065] The microphone 506 receives speech of a driver to convert the received speech into a speech signal. Further, the speaker 502 transfers the speech signal received from the microphone 506 to the driver. Once the set of user proximal electronics 110 is assembled and connected to the detachable rear unit 110, the helmet turns into a Bluetooth enabled helmet 100.
[0066] In an embodiment, the microphone is attached to the speaker 502 using the speaker wiring harness 532.
[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates an interior construction of the helmet 100 (refer fig.1), according to an embodiment of the invention. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an internal padding 602 is disposed inside the helmet main body 102 (refer fig.1) such that the internal padding 602 is in contact with the head of the user of the helmet 100. Further, the internal padding 602 is an EPS (Expanded polystyrene) protective lining foam. The EPS protective lining foam is also known as a styrofoam that combines several benefits as its very lightweight, highly pressure-resistant, and water-proof.
[0068] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the internal padding 602 comprises at least two cheek pads 604, wherein each of the at least two cheek pads 604 are disposed inside the first side part 107 and the second side part of the helmet main body 102 such that each of the at least two cheek pads 604 interface with the cheek of the user of the helmet 100.
[0069] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one speaker 502 (refer fig.5) is disposed underneath the at least two cheek pads 604. Further, the at least one IR sensor 504 is disposed underneath the at least two cheek pads 604. Further, the helmet main body 102 defines a recess to receive the at least one speaker 502 and the helmet main body 102 defines a recess to receive the at least one IR sensor 504.
[0070] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the inner surface of the helmet main body 102 defines a first groove to accommodate the speaker wiring harness 530, a second groove to accommodate the IR sensor wiring harness 530, wherein the speaker wiring harness 530 and the IR sensor wiring harness 530 are separate and separately connected to the connection outlet 406. Further, the chin guard 114 defines a third groove to accommodate the microphone wiring harness 530. The microphone 506 is disposed in proximity to the chin guard 114 such that the microphone 506 is around a mouth of the user of the helmet 100.
[0071] In another embodiment, the microphone wiring harness 530 may be disposed out in the open where the helmet 100 does not comprise the chin guard 114.
[0072] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly of an integrated speaker and IR sensor unit 700, according to an embodiment of the invention. Instead of a separate speaker 502 and an IR sensor 504, the user proximal electronics may comprise the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit. Further, the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit comprises a main housing 706 configured to house a speaker 702 and an IR sensor 704, an IR sensor cover 710 configured to cover the IR sensor 704, and an outer fabric 712 configured to cover the speaker 702. Further, the main housing 706 is in the shape of a right-angled cone comprising a right-angled edge 730 and a rounded side 732. Further, the IR sensor 704 is disposed at the right-angled edge 730 of the main housing 706.
[0073] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the main housing 706 comprises an integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet 714, and a microphone outlet 716. Further, the integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet 714 is configured to allow the passage of an integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness 734 to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit 700 to the connection outlet 406. Further, the wiring harnesses consists of a bi-directional connection outlet which interfaces with the PCB 404 (refer fig.4) of the detachable rear unit 110.
[0074] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the inner surface of the helmet main body 102 (refer fig.1) defines an integrated groove to accommodate the integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness 734. Further, the microphone outlet 716 is configured to allow the passage of wiring harness 736 to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit 700 to the microphone 506. Further, a back portion the main housing 706 includes a Velcro patch 708 to fix the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit 700 into the inner surface of the helmet main body 102.
[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, this invention ensures the detection of a user’s head through a wear detection unit. Further, the wear detection unit includes a combination of the IMU sensor 426 (refer fig. 4) located on the backplate 304 (refer fig.3) of the detachable rear unit 110 (refer fig.1) and the at least one IR sensor 504 (refer fig.5). Further, the at least one IR sensor 504 detects the user’s head and the IMU sensor 426 registers the orientation and angle of the helmet 100. The additional six axis IMU sensor 426 is placed on the PCB 404 (refer fig.4) in the detachable rear unit 110 and acts as a secondary sensor that detects motion. There are two states to switch on the helmet 100 automatically. In the first state, an object is detected by the at least one IR sensor 504. In the second state, the helmet 100 is oriented upright in the worn position, then the helmet 100 automatically switches on. If either state is not present, then the helmet 100 does not switch on. This two-state authentication ensures reliable wear detection with the least number of false positives. For example, an external object such as a glove placed inside the helmet 100 is not able to trigger the helmet 100 to turn on the helmet 100 is held upright.
[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the helmet 100 includes the detachable rear unit 110 with at least two connection outlets 406, and at least two PCBs 404. Further, the at least two connection outlets 406 include a first connection outlet, and a second connection outlet. Further, the at least two PCBs 404 include a main PCB and a secondary PCB. According to this configuration, an additional wiring harness is added to hold the at least one IR sensor 504. It is connected separately to the detachable rear unit 110 through a second connection outlet. Further, the main PCB comprises a Bluetooth MCU, an on-board BMS (battery management system), an audio codec, a BLE (Bluetooth enable) antenna, and a power management unit. The main PCB receives power from the power management unit. This main PCB interfaces with the at least one speaker 502 and the microphone 506 to provide audio. The secondary PCB comprises an IMU sensor, a micro control-unit (MCU), and a wireless coil receiver. The at least one IR sensor 504 is connected with the secondary PCB. The secondary PCB is used for wear detection. Further, the wireless coil receiver allows the helmet 100 to charge a power source of the power management unit through the secondary PCB. Further, the at least two connection outlet is configured with the main PCB and the secondary PCB.
[0077] In an advantageous embodiment, the helmet 100 is easy to design, economical, and cost-effective. This invention requires no manual efforts to on/off the at least one IR sensor 504 for wear detection of the helmet 100. It allows automatic on/off the helmet 100 by using the at least one IR sensor 504 while riding the vehicle on the road. This invention allows wireless charging to the helmet 100 through the receiver induction coil 306 (refer fig.3) which increases the battery life of the helmet 100.
[0078] In accordance with another advantageous embodiment, this invention helps the rider to answer calls, listen to music, and receive navigation instructions from a mobile phone without using their hands while driving. This invention also reduces road accidents by providing a seamless driving experience to the rider. The parts of the helmet 100 are modularly fitted so that it is easily assembled and repaired.
[0079] Moreover, although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A helmet (100) comprising:
a helmet main body (102) comprising a top part (104), a rear part (106), a first side part (107) and a second side part, wherein the rear part defines a cavity (108) extending from a portion of the first side part (107) to a portion of the second side part;
a detachable rear unit (110) configured to be attached to the cavity (108) defined by the rear part (106) of the helmet main body (102), wherein the detachable rear unit (110) comprises,
a hollow outer body (302), wherein,
the hollow outer body (302) is configured to house a charging module (306) and an alignment unit (308); and
the hollow outer body (302) comprises a centre portion (318), a first portion (316) and a second portion (320), wherein the centre portion (318) is disposed in the rear part (106) of the helmet main body (102), the first portion (316) is disposed in the first side part (107) of the helmet main body (102) and the second portion (320) is disposed in the second side part of the helmet main body (102); and
a backplate (304) configured to cover the hollow outer body (302), wherein,
the backplate (304) comprises a power source (402), a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) (404), and a connection outlet (406); and
the backplate (304) is in contact with the cavity (108) defined by the rear part (106) of the helmet main body (102); and
a set of user proximal electronics (112).
2. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top part (104) is a dome shaped part configured to fit a head of a user of the helmet (100).
3. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cavity (108) is a rectangular shaped cavity.
4. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein depth of the cavity (108) disposed in the first side part (107) and the second side part is shallower than depth of the cavity (108) disposed in the rear part (106) of the helmet main body (102).
5. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the depth of the cavity (108) disposed in the first side part (107) and the second side part tapers away from portion of the cavity (108) disposed in the rear part (106) of the helmet main body (102).
6. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the backplate (304) of the detachable rear unit (110) comprises snap fit protrusions (424) configured to attach the detachable rear unit (110) to the helmet main body (102).
7. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the detachable rear unit (110) is an arc shaped unit.
8. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the detachable rear unit (110) comprises flanges (330) extending along sides of the first portion (316), the centre portion (318) and the second portion (320).
9. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the flanges (330) disposed along the sides of the center portion (318) is thicker than the flanges (330) disposed along the sides of the first portion (316) and the second portion (320).
10. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the flanges (330) disposed along the sides of the first portion (316) and the second portion (320) tapers away from the flanges (330) disposed along the sides of the center portion (318).
11. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the centre portion (318) of the hollow outer body (302) comprises:
a first compartment (310) configured to house the charging module (306), wherein the charging module (306) is a receiver induction coil configured to be wirelessly charged; and
a second compartment (312) configured to house the alignment unit (308), wherein the alignment unit (308) is a plurality of magnets configured to align the helmet (100) in a particular direction.
12. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the backplate (304) comprises a backplate centre portion (410), a backplate first portion (408) and a backplate second portion (412), wherein,
the backplate centre portion (410) covers the centre portion (318) of the hollow outer body (302), wherein the backplate centre portion (410) comprises an attachment unit (414) to attach the PCB (404), wherein the attachment unit (414) is crossed ribs comprising fastener bosses (416) at its ends;
the backplate first portion (408) covers the first portion (316) of the hollow outer body (302), wherein the backplate first portion (408) comprises an attachment unit (418) to attach the power source (402), wherein the attachment unit (418) is crossed ribs comprising fastener bosses at its ends; and
the backplate second portion (410) covers the second portion of the hollow outer body (302), wherein the backplate second portion (410) houses the connection outlet (406) and a powering device (420), wherein the connection outlet (406) is a USB-A or USB-C type connector.
13. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the set of user proximal electronics (112) comprises at least one speaker (502), at least one infrared (IR) sensor (504) and a microphone (506), wherein the at least one speaker (502) is configured to provide information to a user of the helmet (100) in the form of a sound, wherein the at least one IR sensor (504) is configured to determine wear detection, wherein the microphone (506) is configured to capture sound.
14. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 13, comprising an internal padding (602) disposed inside the helmet main body (102) such that the internal padding (602) is in contact with the head of the user of the helmet (100), wherein the internal padding (602) comprises at least two cheek pads (604) wherein each of the cheek pads (604) are disposed inside the first side part (107) and the second side part of the helmet main body (102) such that each of the cheek pads (604) interface with the cheek of the user of the helmet (100).
15. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one speaker (502) is disposed underneath the cheek pads (604).
16. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the helmet main body (102) defines a recess to receive the at least one speaker (502).
17. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one IR sensor (504) is disposed underneath the cheek pad (604).
18. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the helmet main body (102) defines a recess to receive the at least one IR sensor (504).
19. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one speaker (502) is connected to the connection outlet (406) using a speaker wiring harness (530).
20. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 19, wherein an inner surface of the helmet main body (102) defines a first groove to accommodate the speaker wiring harness (530).
21. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one IR sensor (504) is connected to the connection outlet (406) using an IR sensor wiring harness (530).
22. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 21, wherein an inner surface of the helmet main body (102) defines a second groove to accommodate the IR sensor wiring harness (530).
23. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the user proximal electronics (112) comprises an integrated speaker and IR sensor unit (700).
24. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 23, wherein the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit (700) comprises:
a main housing (706) configured to house the speaker (702) and the IR sensor (704), wherein the main housing (706) is in the shape of a right-angled cone comprising a right angled edge (730) and a rounded side (732);
an IR sensor cover (710) configured to cover the IR sensor (704); and
an outer fabric (712) configured to cover the speaker (702).
25. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the IR sensor (704) is disposed at the right angled edge (730) of the main housing (706).
26. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the main housing (706) comprises an integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet (714), wherein the integrated speaker and IR sensor outlet (714) is configured to allow the passage of an integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness (734) to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit (700) to the connection outlet (406).
27. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 26, wherein an inner surface of the helmet main body (102) defines an integrated groove to accommodate the integrated speaker and IR sensor wiring harness (734).
28. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the main housing (706) comprises a microphone outlet (716), wherein the microphone outlet (716) is configured to allow the passage of wiring harness (736) to connect the integrated speaker and IR sensor unit (700) to the microphone (506).
29. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the microphone (506) is connected to the at least one speaker (502) using a microphone wiring harness (532), wherein the microphone (506) is disposed around a mouth of the user of the helmet (100).
30. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 29, comprising a chin guard (114) in contact with the helmet main body (102), wherein the chin guard (114) extends from the first side part (107) to the second side part such that the chin guard (114) and the top part (102) define a front opening (116), wherein the helmet main body (102) and the chin guard (114) together define an outer shell.
31. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein the chin guard (114) defines a third groove to accommodate the microphone wiring harness (532), wherein the microphone (506) is disposed in proximity to the chin guard (114) such that the microphone (506) is around a mouth of the user of the helmet (100).
32. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 30, comprising a shield covering the front opening (116), wherein the shield is operably movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the shield provides a heads-up display (HUD).
33. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein the outer shell is made up of anyone or a plastic or a fiber or a combination thereof.
34. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the backplate (304) comprises an Inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor (426), wherein the IMU sensor (426) is configured to determine orientation and angle of the helmet (100).
35. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the detachable rear unit (110) comprises a light emitting diode (LED) indicator (422), wherein the LED indicator (422) is configured to emit a plurality of colours to provide a multitude of indicators, wherein the multitude of indicators comprises one of a power source being charged, low charge in the power source, among others.
36. The helmet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of user proximal electronics (112) comprises a haptics unit, configured to provide haptics signal to the user of the helmet (100).