Integrated Helmet Lighting for Waterproof High-Intensity Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helmet lighting systems are not suitable for demanding environments such as water or fire scenarios, are heavy and bulky, provide low light emission, and have short operational times.
Innovation Solution
A helmet with integrated lighting system featuring a structural shell, multiple layers to encapsulate light sources and electrical conduits, and a waterproof design, including a source of power and controller, which is lightweight and provides high light emission and long operational life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If existing helmet lighting systems are used, then basic lighting function is provided, but the systems are heavy and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into separate functional modules: light sources, power source, controller, and electrical conduits, each independently positioned and secured within the helmet shell. This segmentation allows for optimized weight distribution and easier replacement of individual components without replacing the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical conduits are routed through and secured to the helmet shell structure, nesting the wiring system within the existing helmet framework. The light sources are positioned within openings in the shell, and the power source is integrated into the interior space, creating a nested arrangement that minimizes additional weight while maximizing functionality.
2Illumination intensity
If existing helmet lighting systems are used, then lighting function is provided, but the systems provide low levels of light emission
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light sources are combined and secured to the helmet shell at different positions to provide comprehensive high-intensity illumination. The controller integrates multiple functions including light source control, power management, and operational modes, merging these functions into a single coordinated system that maximizes light emission while optimizing power consumption for extended operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller enables dynamic adjustment of light emission parameters, allowing the system to vary between high-intensity modes for maximum illumination and energy-saving modes to extend operational duration. The system can switch between different operational states to balance light emission intensity with power consumption based on environmental conditions and user needs.
3Duration of action of moving object
If existing helmet lighting systems are used, then lighting function is provided, but the systems have short operational times
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors power source status and light source operation, maintaining optimal power distribution throughout the operational period. The system manages power consumption continuously by adjusting light output levels based on accumulated usage, ensuring maximum operational duration while maintaining adequate illumination throughout the entire operational period rather than degrading performance over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements periodic operational cycles, alternating between high-intensity illumination periods and lower-power intervals to extend overall operational time. The system can cycle through different light emission modes, providing bursts of high-intensity light when needed while consuming less power during transitional or standby periods, thereby extending the total duration of useful operation.
4Reliability
If existing helmet lighting systems are used, then basic functionality is provided, but the systems are not waterproof for water or fire environments
Solution Approach 1:
The helmet shell serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the helmet, acts as a mounting surface for light sources, serves as a conduit pathway for electrical wiring, and functions as a waterproof barrier. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate protective housings for each component, achieving waterproof capability while maintaining relatively simple system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The helmet shell is designed as a continuous protective envelope that seals around all electrical components and conduits. The shell structure incorporates sealed openings for light sources and routed pathways for electrical conduits, creating a flexible yet protective barrier that prevents water and fire exposure to internal components without requiring rigid separate enclosures for each element.
Data Source
AI summary
Helmets and helmet lighting systems for use in demanding environments, such as fire, rescue, police and military applications. The helmets and systems provide one or more of high levels of light emission, long operational life, waterproofing/ability to operate in wet or submerged environments and relatively low weight. In some configurations, a helmet comprises a lighting system including an exterior layer and an interior layer applied to a shell of the helmet. In some configurations, a lighting module having an internal layer and an exterior layer is attached to an underlying helmet. In some configurations, a lighting system includes pods and/or strips containing a source of light. The pods or strips can be attached to an underlying helmet.