An American company has developed a bicycle helmet equipped with sensors, lights, and cameras to detect vehicles approaching from behind, alerting the rider when visibility is limited.
The Classon helmet is fully equipped with front lights, rear lights, turn signals, and a camera. (Photo: Beyond)
The Classon helmet from Beyond, a New York-based company, has begun testing following a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, New Atlas reported on August 14. The price for each test helmet is $199, and when it goes into production, the expected price will rise to $399.
Weighing 580 grams, the Classon is water-resistant according to the IP65 standard, meaning it can withstand water spray from all directions at low pressure. Like many other smart helmets, it features front lighting, a rear brake light, amber LED turn signals, and cameras both front and rear. These electronic devices are connected to two 1.2 GHz processors and powered by a 2,800 mAh lithium battery. A full charge takes one hour, providing enough power for the helmet to operate for about four hours.
When the rider signals a left or right turn in the traditional manner, gesture sensors mounted on the helmet will detect this and activate the corresponding turn signal. Additionally, when the integrated accelerometer detects a sudden deceleration of the bicycle, the rear light will temporarily illuminate, serving as a brake light.
Both cameras can be used to record rides for recreational or legal purposes in the event of an accident. The helmet’s internal memory can store approximately six hours of video. Furthermore, if the cameras detect a vehicle approaching from behind, in the rider’s blind spot, the rider will be warned by a flashing LED light located under the helmet’s visor.
