Helmet Collision Safety System

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/661,227, which was filed on Jun. 18, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of impact detection and monitoring systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a helmet collision safety system comprising accelerometers, gyroscopes, and MEMS sensors to detect and analyze linear and rotational forces, using a processor and machine learning to classify impacts by severity and mitigate concussion risks. The system features wireless communication for real-time alerts via a smartphone app, customizable profiles, impact logging, geo-tagging, and a rechargeable battery with USB-C and wireless charging options. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Athletes who participate in sports requiring helmets, such as football, cycling, hockey, and baseball, are frequently exposed to potential head injuries due to falls or high-impact collisions. These head injuries, including concussions, can range in severity and often go undetected in real-time, especially during intense gameplay. In many cases, athletes continue participating despite sustaining a concussion, either because they are unaware of the injury's severity or due to a lack of immediate medical evaluation. While professional athletes often benefit from the presence of medical personnel during games, amateur and recreational athletes may not have this resource readily available. This absence of prompt diagnosis increases the risk of repetitive head injuries, which can result in long-term cognitive impairment or chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The challenge lies in identifying the severity of head impacts accurately and quickly to prevent further harm. Therefore, a reliable method to detect significant head collisions and relay the information promptly is necessary to improve safety standards in sports and reduce the risks associated with undiagnosed head trauma.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that provides an impact detection mechanism to identify collisions and blows to the head. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that allows integration with a smartphone application to determine and communicate the severity of said impacts. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that alerts users and officials when an impact exceeds a safe threshold, thereby preventing athletes from continuing without medical evaluation.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a helmet collision safety system. The device is comprised of a helmet collision safety system designed to measure, analyze, and communicate impact forces experienced during sports activities to mitigate concussion risks. The system comprises an accelerometer, gyroscope, and at least one MEMS sensor strategically placed around a helmet to detect linear and rotational forces caused by impacts. A processor analyzes sensor data using an impact differentiation algorithm, classifying impacts into a three-tier severity system with corresponding visual and alert responses. The system integrates machine learning to refine impact assessments and utilizes wireless communication for real-time data transmission to a smartphone application, which manages alerts, logs impact history, and provides geo-tagging for incident tracking. Additional features include a rechargeable battery with USB-C and wireless charging options, customizable user profiles, and emergency contact integration to enhance safety and response efficiency.

In this manner, the helmet collision safety system of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a comprehensive solution for monitoring head impacts in real-time. More specifically, the system measures the force of collisions and impacts and communicates this data to a smartphone application. When the system detects an impact above a predetermined threshold, it automatically transmits an alert to the designated receiver, enabling coaches, referees, or medical personnel to make informed decisions about the athlete's participation. This functionality ensures that athletes receive prompt attention for potential concussions and reduces the likelihood of long-term damage caused by repeated head trauma.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a helmet collision safety system. The helmet collision safety system comprises an accelerometer and a gyroscope to measure linear and rotational forces experienced by a helmet. The accelerometer detects sudden linear decelerations or accelerations caused by impacts, while the gyroscope measures rotational motion changes. The system components are compatible with various sports helmets, including football, hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and cycling helmets, and are integrated without affecting standard helmet functionality.

The system incorporates at least one MEMS sensor for high-impact shock detection, responding to high-frequency accelerations associated with sudden impacts. The sensors can differentiate between normal and severe impacts using an impact differentiation system algorithm that employs predefined thresholds and filtering techniques to ensure accurate impact classification.

The sensors are strategically positioned around the helmet at the front, back, sides, and top to cover all potential impact zones. These placements are based on biomechanical studies to maximize sensitivity to direct and glancing blows.

A processor analyzes data from the sensors, calculating the magnitude and duration of forces to assess concussion risks. The processor performs high-speed, real-time analysis, utilizing a three-tier severity system for impact classification: green for minor impacts (no alert), yellow for moderate impacts (cautionary alert), and red for severe impacts (immediate medical evaluation). The severity levels align with medical guidelines for concussion diagnosis.

A machine learning module enhances accuracy by analyzing historical data and evolving impact patterns. This module refines thresholds and improves risk predictions over time, updating models with new data for improved reliability.

Wireless communication enables real-time data transmission to smart devices via a low-energy Bluetooth module or an RF transmitter. The Bluetooth module optimizes power consumption, while the RF transmitter supports long-range communication in environments with obstructions or interference.

A smartphone application manages alerts and player safety, featuring a real-time alert system for instant push notifications and an impact history log to track impact data over time. The app includes a severity indicator system with color-coded alerts for visual cues and a geo-tagging feature for location-based impact analysis. Emergency contact integration ensures rapid notification of designated contacts or medical professionals following severe impacts.

Accordingly, the helmet collision safety system of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a comprehensive solution for monitoring head impacts in real-time. More specifically, the system measures the force of collisions and impacts and communicates this data to a smartphone application. When the system detects an impact above a predetermined threshold, it automatically transmits an alert to the designated receiver, enabling coaches, referees, or medical personnel to make informed decisions about the athlete's participation. This functionality ensures that athletes receive prompt attention for potential concussions and reduces the likelihood of long-term damage caused by repeated head trauma.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a graphical view of components of one potential embodiment of a helmet collision safety system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a helmet collision safety system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that provides an impact detection mechanism to identify collisions and blows to the head. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that allows integration with a smartphone application to determine and communicate the severity of said impacts. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a helmet collision safety system that alerts users and officials when an impact exceeds a safe threshold, thereby preventing athletes from continuing without medical evaluation.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a helmet collision safety system. The helmet collision safety system comprises an accelerometer and a gyroscope to measure linear and rotational forces experienced by a helmet. The accelerometer detects sudden linear decelerations or accelerations resulting from impacts, while the gyroscope measures changes in rotational motion. The system components are compatible with various sports helmets, such as football, hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and cycling helmets, and integrate seamlessly without interfering with standard helmet functionality.

The system includes at least one MEMS sensor for detecting high-impact shocks, capable of responding to high-frequency accelerations from sudden impacts. The sensors differentiate between normal and severe impacts through an impact differentiation system algorithm, which uses predefined thresholds and filtering techniques for accurate impact classification.

Sensors are strategically placed at the front, back, sides, and top of the helmet to cover all potential impact zones. These placements are informed by biomechanical studies to optimize sensitivity to both direct and glancing blows.

A processor analyzes the sensor data, calculating the magnitude and duration of impact forces to evaluate concussion risks. The processor performs high-speed, real-time analysis and utilizes a three-tier severity system for impact classification: green for minor impacts (no alert), yellow for moderate impacts (cautionary alert), and red for severe impacts (immediate medical evaluation). The severity levels are calibrated according to medical guidelines for concussion diagnosis.

A machine learning module improves accuracy by analyzing historical data and evolving impact patterns. This module refines thresholds and enhances risk predictions over time, updating models with new data to ensure improved reliability.

Wireless communication allows real-time data transmission to smart devices via a low-energy Bluetooth module or an RF transmitter. The Bluetooth module conserves power, while the RF transmitter supports long-range communication, even in environments with obstructions or interference.

A smartphone application manages alerts and player safety, offering a real-time alert system for immediate push notifications and an impact history log for tracking impact data. The app includes a severity indicator system with color-coded alerts for visual feedback and a geo-tagging feature for location-based analysis. Emergency contact integration ensures designated contacts or medical professionals are promptly notified following severe impacts.

The helmet collision safety system provides a comprehensive solution for real-time head impact monitoring. The system measures collision forces and transmits data to a smartphone application. When an impact exceeds a predefined threshold, an automatic alert is sent to designated recipients, enabling coaches, referees, or medical personnel to make informed decisions regarding the athlete's participation. This functionality facilitates prompt attention to potential concussions and helps reduce the risk of long-term damage from repeated head trauma.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a graphical view of components of one potential embodiment of a helmet collision safety system 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The helmet collision safety system 100 is comprised of an accelerometer 102 and a gyroscope 104 to measure both linear and rotational forces experienced by the helmet 160 of the system 100. The accelerometer 102 is configured to detect sudden linear decelerations or accelerations caused by impacts, while the gyroscope 104 detects rotational motion changes, which are critical in assessing twisting or rotational forces. The helmet 160 may be any sports helmet such as, but not limited to, football helmets (as seen in FIG. 2), hockey helmets, baseball helmets, lacrosse helmets, and cycling helmets, and is designed to house the system components without interfering with standard helmet functionality.

For precise and reliable detection, the system 100 uses at least one MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) sensor 106 for measuring high-impact shocks. The MEMS sensor 106 is designed to respond to high-frequency accelerations associated with sudden impacts. These sensors 102, 104, 106 are designed to distinguish between normal, minor impacts and more severe, potentially dangerous impacts, reducing the chances of false positives with the help of the impact differentiation system algorithm 108. The algorithm 108 utilizes predefined thresholds and filtering techniques to ensure accurate impact classification, even during rapid or complex sequences of motion.

To ensure comprehensive detection, the sensors 102, 104, 106 are strategically placed around a helmet 160, including but not limited to the front, back, sides, and top. This strategic placement ensures coverage of all potential impact zones, allowing the system 100 to capture impacts from any direction. Placement locations are selected based on biomechanical studies of head impact patterns, ensuring optimal sensitivity to both direct and glancing blows.

At least one processor 114 is responsible for analyzing the data collected by the sensors 102, 104, 106. The processor 114 calculates both the magnitude and duration of the force of an impact to determine potential concussion risks. The processor 114 features high-speed data processing capabilities to ensure real-time analysis, minimizing latency between impact detection and risk assessment. The algorithm 108 uses a three-tier severity system 116, as shown in FIG. 1, for impact assessment. If the impact is minor, it is classified as a severity level green 118, which requires no alert to be generated. For moderate impacts, the system 100 triggers a severity level yellow 120, issuing a cautionary alert. Severe impacts prompt a severity level red 122, signaling an immediate need for medical evaluation. The three-tier severity system 116 is calibrated to align with medical guidelines for concussion diagnosis, ensuring appropriate responses to different impact intensities.

To enhance accuracy and predictive capabilities, a machine learning module 124 is integrated to analyze impact patterns and historical data over time. The machine learning module 124 uses adaptive algorithms to recognize evolving patterns of impact severity, refining thresholds, and improving concussion risk predictions based on real-world performance. The module 124 also continuously updates its data models based on new impact data to enhance predictive reliability.

Wireless communication enables real-time data transmission to a smart device such as a tablet or cell phone. More specifically, the system 100 includes a low-energy Bluetooth module 126 or an RF (radio frequency) transmitter 128. The low-energy Bluetooth module 126 is optimized for minimal power consumption, maintaining battery efficiency during continuous operation. The RF transmitter 128 supports longer-range data transmission, ensuring reliable communication in environments with multiple obstructions or interference.

The system 100 may also be comprised of a smartphone application 130, as shown in FIG. 1, for managing alerts and monitoring player safety. The app 130 features a real-time alert system 134 that sends instant push notifications whenever a high-impact collision occurs. The real-time alert system 134 utilizes low-latency communication protocols to ensure timely delivery of alerts. Additionally, an impact history log 136 tracks and records impact data over time, helping to monitor potential injury risks. The impact history log 136 stores detailed records, including impact location, time, and severity, allowing for thorough post-event analysis.

A severity indicator system 116, as described provides visual cues with color-coded alerts as noted above (green, yellow, red) to easily convey impact severity, as noted above. For enhanced safety analysis, the app includes a geo-tagging feature 140, which logs the location of each incident for post-game reviews and audits. The geo-tagging feature 140 uses GPS coordinates to pinpoint exact locations, facilitating accurate spatial analysis of impact events. In the event of severe impacts, the emergency contact integration 142 automatically notifies a designated contact or medical professionals. The emergency contact integration 142 supports multiple contacts and prioritizes notifications to ensure rapid response.

The app 130 also allows users to create customizable user profiles 144 for different sports, age groups, and risk thresholds. Settings can be tailored for youth leagues with more conservative thresholds or adult leagues with more lenient thresholds. The customizable profiles 144 enable precise adjustments to detection parameters, aligning with the unique safety requirements of each user category.

The system 100 includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery 148. The battery 148 is designed for long-lasting performance, supporting extended use between charges. The battery 148 can be recharged via a USB-C charging port 154 and/or a wireless charging module 156. The USB-C charging port 154 supports fast charging capabilities, reducing downtime between uses. The wireless charging module 156 employs inductive charging technology to facilitate convenient, cable-free recharging.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “helmet collision safety system” and “system” are interchangeable and refer to the helmet collision safety system 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the helmet collision safety system 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the helmet collision safety system 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the helmet collision safety system 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the helmet collision safety system 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the helmet collision safety system 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.