Unique hi-tech motorbike helmet with built-in navigation system and voice controlled interface.
The Challenge
Motorcyclists still need an effective navigation tool except the usual paper maps or touch-screen navigators. Using maps requires frequent stops, navigators distract the biker’s attention and are not safe to be operated on the go.
There is a device that would perfectly meet the bikers’ requirements but up to the present day only fighter pilots could enjoy its advantages. Yes, we mean helmet-mounted displays.
The Solution
We worked a lot and now have a solution:
- augmented reality for easy and user-friendly navigation. Field of view 18 x 12 degrees.
- clearly visible collimated image i.e. it is always in focus, just like that in scope sights
- full-color, translucent picture is projected right on the visor like in a F-35 fighter helmet, it’s safe, provides unobstructed view, doesn’t distract attention and eliminates the need for a separate display
- supposed size of the system fits a motorcycle helmet – our helmet is going to be just a bit bigger than usual
- 3000 mAh batteries for a long operation time
- microphone for voice control that keeps both hands free for driving
- two earphones
- light sensor for adjusting the image brightness according to external light conditions
- G-sensor, gyroscope, digital compass for head movement tracking (the picture changes according to the view direction)
- 4K 30 fps / FHD 60 fps front camera.
- our own minimalistic interface that will be used instead of standard Android interface. Thus you will not be able to play games or watch video on the go, sorry!
Despite sophisticated modern technologies being at the heart of product it is going to be easy to use. In fact, its future owners are going to touch the futuristic technology formerly seen only in sci-fi movies.
Shape – Modular Helmet
Our 1st plan was to make a full face helmet of an unusual shape (1st prototype from 2013 year), a bit bulky because of all the stuff inside. But we kept researching. And now is the result of the hard work of our engineers: our optics is now small enough to fit a usual size and shape modular (or flip-up) helmet that will look and feel quite usual – 2nd prototype with optic in chin part.
This means no problems with certification, usual weight distribution, good aerodynamic properties. And of course such type of helmet is much more comfortable to wear and use.
Field of View (FOV HUD).
Pay attention to the above schema. It tells you why we place the image in the center of view field. That’s because this is the area where you see best. At the same time there are areas (on the left or on the right for example) where your vision is not so sharp.
User Interface
The user interface is going to be minimalistic and simple. The list of of voice commands will be short, all commands natural and understandable by context. For the case the user is in trouble formulating a suitable command the help option is just a command (“Help!”) away.
Current State
The project got support of Moscow Department of Science, Industrial Policy and Enterprise; State Foundation for Assistance to Small Innovative Enterprises in Science and Technology of Russian Federation; Skolkovo Foundation, Russian ministry of science .Currently with their financial support we made prototypes for:
- outer shell
- electronic board
- optics
- software
Why Crowd Funding & Pre-order for Early birds?
Our project origins from Russia. Russian venture funds are not disposed to invest into hardware startups. They prefer to back up clones of successful services like Groupon, Airnb, Zappos, Yelp, Booking, etc. They are not interested in producing hardware either. Thus we got some grants from the Government, but this seed capital is not unlimited, and is intended for making prototypes. We, like Paul Graham, believe that the time of hardware startups is coming and they can begin a new era by crowd funding, i.e. fundraising and pre-selling.
How We will Use Raised Funds
All money we will spend to R&D and making tools for mass-production. No any fancy rich toys for founder and management, personal assistants, penthouses, business class and rich offices. You can look to our office in our video-reels, we stay in cable-plant for economy mode, all other costs also in economy mode.
Please learn more about injection molding.
Our Goals
- complete engineering of optics and electronics for industrial production
- finish the software development
- conduct final tests and certification procedures
- start serial production of the helmet
Plan of Engineering & Market launch.
Plan for Market Launch.
2Q 2017 in USA.
3Q 2017 Canada, England & Australia.
1Q 2018 Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Russia.
2Q 2018 Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Greece.
Certification
The helmet will be certificated according to the following standards:
- USA DOT
- European ECE 22.05
- Japanese JIS T 8133
- FCC
Thanks to:
Moscow Department of Science, Industrial Policy and Enterprise
Russian Ministry of Science support us and give us grant
Risks and Challenges
We can face problems with R&D (but we already executed 2 different prototypes (overhead optics in 2013, chin part optic 2016). when making press-molds, interacting with ODM contractors.
Possible problems with certification.
FAQ
Why is the price $2.000? Isn’t it too high?
If you make a comparison with the price of a good helmet (whatever that means, it’s a matter of personal taste), then add the price of a communication unit (for Internet connection and downloading of essential info like traffic, POI, weather etc. – supposed hardware specifications are going to be as good as of current high-end Android smartphones), and a price of a good GPS along with its mounting kit, the price adds up.
This is all integral, all for one price and the helmet will be made out of carbon fiber, as opposed to polycarbonate.
When the products are compared like-for-like, the price isn’t quite as daunting. It seems steep at first glance.
Do not forget that we are planning to add Bluetooth headset functionality and a high-resolution camera if we raise enough money. Then add a price of a headset and an action camera (with projection optics like that used in reflex cameras and with 13 mpx resolution) and compare the result with just $2000 for an integrated device.
We think, it’s a good deal!
What size will the helmet be?
The overall dimensions of the helmet will be slightly bigger than those of an average helmet (you know, we need some extra space for electronics and optics inside).
As for antropometry – we will make helmets of standard S, M, L and XL sizes, just as usual.
What color will the helmet be?
Final color as well as shape details may vary. Yes, we know about industrial design and its importance.
How much will the helmet weight?
It will weight about 1.4 kg, as said in the video.
How do you load the map?
Maps are going to be pre-loaded, no need for downloading the maps on the go. You will be able to update maps on a regular basis.
How well does the head-up display work on a clear visor in daylight? How bright is the maps image at night
The image is going to be bright enough to be well visible at daytime (it’s a very important point for us, be sure).
The image brightness will be automatically adjusted (dimmed) according to light conditions at night or at cloudy weather (we have foreseen a light sensor for it). Thus the image will remain well wisible but will not dazzle your eyes.
Will your navigation system be online or offline (i.e. will I need Internet connection to make routes)?
You will not need Internet connection for making routes. We use our own engine to do it. Internet will be required for downloading updates, traffic information, POIs and weather forecast.
Press
Are you a journalist or want to ask a private question or need high quality illustrations for print or interview? Please contact us pr@livemap.info
Special for TV-channels.
Are you TV-reporter & need video for tv-news?
We can shot video interview together or you can use current videos from our YouTube channel.
PS BIG THANKS all journalists & tv-reporters in the world, who made and will make news about Livemap motohelmet.