An Invisible Bike Helmet? The Impossible Made Possible

As we choose to move to a more sustainable lifestyle, bicycling to work or to the grocery store is an option for many. However, in many cities, riding a bicycle at times may seem like you're taking your life in your own hands.

However, there is a happy solution on the way. Actually, it is already accessible if you live in Europe.

Two Swedish students have invented what they call "The Invisible Bike Helmet". It is invisible up to the point where it is actually needed, and then it becomes visible. What? Science fiction you say. Well, not quite. Think: car airbags. You don't see them, yet they are there, waiting to pounce into action when needed.

Thus the same with these invisible helmets. When you start falling over, the "neck band" or neck brace looking concept, kicks into gear and poof, you have a helmet.

At the moment, there are two hurdles to cross to get a helmet. One, you must be willing to pay several hundred dollars for the helmet, which is not so bad when you consider it could save your life. The major hurdle may be that it is a "one time use only" helmet. Once it inflates, it is no longer usable as an invisible helmet. You either purchase another one, or I suppose, you could ride your bike wearing your now visible Invisible Helmet.


innerself subscribe graphic


This helmet has many other possibilities as well. Think of persons who suffer from epilepsy or other diseases that may cause you to lose your balance and fall unexpectedly. As this invention becomes more and more popular and more accessible price-wise, it will surely prove to be a life-saver for many.

Watch the videos below to get a visual and informational tour.

Invisible Bike Helmet Inflates on Impact (REUTERS)

{youtube}Tn65Bows0Ws{/youtube}

Swedish students Anna Haupt & Terese Alstin speak about their project

“If people say it’s impossible we have to prove them wrong.”

Design students Anna and Terese took on a giant challenge as an exam project. Something no one had done before. If they could swing it, it would for sure be revolutionary. The bicycle is a tool to change the world. If we use bikes AND travel safe: Life will be better for all.

The Invisible Bicycle Helmet, video by Fredrik Gertten, Focus Forward Films

{vimeo}43038579{/vimeo}

Visit the "invisible helmet" website at http://www.hovding.com/