Design and implementation of smart safety helmets for motorcyclists

Abstract

Putting on a helmet is a legal requirement for all motorcyclists in Uganda. However, many motorcyclists don’t mind about their safety so they decide not to put on helmets and put their lives in danger as they give reasons such as helmets are uncomfortable or they don’t see their use. This has led to death of many and others left with severe brain injuries that make them run mad.

The aim of the project was to have a helmet that makes it a must for the rider to put it on before they can start their journey. And therefore, an intelligent system “smart helmet” was implemented with sensors attached that predict whether the rider has put it on and communicates wirelessly to the motorcycle such that ignition cannot be done without putting on the helmet and the buzzer makes a loud noise in case the rider puts off the helmet while riding. The system also alerts the driver in case he puts off his helmet while driving. This helps in enhancement of safety of riders and also makes it possible for the motorcycle riders to follow the helmet legal requirement for motorcyclists which requires motorcyclists to put on a helmet during a ride. Additionally, another helmet for the passenger can be integrated so as to make sure that the passenger too, shall have to put on the helmet before both the rider and the passenger set off for the journey. The helmet can further be refined to meet the safety standards and UNBS specification for helmets. In conclusion, if the smart safety helmet will improve the safety of motorcyclists by making it a must for them to wear it before proceeding to ride the motorcycle if it has been deployed.