HelmSnap

What it does

Every year, thousands die or suffer permanent injuries from not wearing helmets correctly or at all. HelmSnap is a smart buckle that verifies proper use and rewards safe riding while withholding points when helmets are misused or speeds are unsafe.

Your inspiration

A close friend of mine had a minor accident recently. It wasn’t life-threatening, but it made me question why something as simple as wearing a helmet properly is still causing thousands of deaths each year. I realised the problem isn’t awareness, it’s behaviour. People don’t wear helmets right because they’re told to, they do it when they want to. So I flipped the equation: what if, instead of punishment, we rewarded safe behaviour? That’s when I came up with HelmSnap, a device that ensures you wear your helmet correctly, and rewards you for it.

How it works

HelmSnap is a smart buckle system that attaches to any helmet strap. It works by detecting whether the helmet is worn and fastened properly using a magnetic Hall effect sensor. The moment the buckle is snapped shut, the system activates and begins monitoring. An onboard accelerometer tracks motion to detect real use, while a GPS module checks the user’s speed. If the helmet is worn correctly and the ride remains within safe speed limits, the rider earns reward points. These points sync with a companion mobile app and can be exchanged with future partners like insurers, fuel stations, or cycling gear stores. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery and controlled by a compact ESP32 microcontroller. All components are enclosed neatly within the host buckle unit, ensuring it’s both tamper-proof and seamlessly integrated into any standard helmet.

Design process

Initially, I considered designing an entire helmet. However, I quickly realized that this approach would generate more material waste and wouldn't be accessible to everyone due to high production costs and limited availability. My aim was to create a solution that was sustainable and universally applicable. I first imagined a device that could detect if a helmet was being worn, and sketched an early concept mounted on the helmet shell. But I realized it could be easily misused, mounted on the bike or even kept in a pocket, and that’s when I inspected a standard helmet closely and found the buckle was the key. From there, I designed HelmSnap as a two-piece buckle system, with the host part housing all electronics and the insert triggering the logic. I explored different locking mechanisms and how to embed sensors without affecting usability. I modeled several iterations using Blender, focusing on internal layout, size constraints, and sensor positioning. I haven’t produced a physical prototype yet. However, I created high-fidelity 3D models, animations, circuit diagrams, and exploded views that clearly communicate the vision and feasibility. Every decision from component choice to enclosure shape, was based on functionality, simplicity, and adaptability across existing helmets.

How it is different

HelmSnap's uniqueness lies in its integrated, user-centric design, prioritizing sustainability and practical accessibility. Many current solutions, especially in Europe for rented e-bikes, require a "selfie with helmet" before riding. These methods are limiting: they're exclusive to specific rentals, prone to errors (dead phones, poor lighting), and inconvenient for users in a hurry. Taking a selfie every ride is far from user-friendly. HelmSnap, however, seamlessly integrates into your existing routine. You just put on your helmet and buckle it. No extra steps, no external devices. Crucially, HelmSnap minimizes waste. It's a small, two-piece system that retrofits onto existing helmets, drastically reducing new material use and disposal. Additionally, HelmSnap introduces a novel reward system for helmet use. Instead of punitive laws, it incentivize riders. By rewarding responsible behavior, and aim to normalize helmet-wearing, fostering a positive change.

Future plans

My immediate next steps involve prototyping and testing, exploring charging options like pogo pins or other waterproof wireless solutions. I’ll focus on refining the design for universal compatibility across all helmet types. A 6-month real-world trial in three cities will gather essential user data to guide further improvements. For business development, I’ll approach potential partners-insurers, fuel stations, and cycling gear stores-to demonstrate HelmSnap’s impact. The goal is to make HelmSnap a global standard in helmet safety and responsible use.

Awards