Hövding airbag helmet looks like a truly remarkable invention that works at protecting us from head injuries sustained while cycling. In this article, we will take a detailed look at all its features.
Airbag System
Head injuries and concussions are one of the greatest reasons for brain damage. Several such injuries occur during cycling or biking accidents. Hövding’s airbag system allows heightened protection as it inflates to create a fixated hood that covers up the neck. According to tests conducted at Stanford University, Hövding provides up to eight times better protection compared to traditional bicycle helmets.
It is designed like a hood, meant to protect the entire head. It uses ultra-strong nylon fabric that arguably does not rip apart even when scraped against the ground.
Sensors & Algorithms
The company says that after performing thousands of tests, collecting the specific movement patterns of cyclists in accidents, they developed an algorithm that can distinguish between normal cycling and the possibility of an accident. They mention on their website that:
When activated, Hövding records the cyclist’s movements 200 times a second. In the event of an accident the airbag inside the collar inflates in 0.1 sec.
Activation
Put it around your neck, fasten the zipper, zip all the way up, get on your bike, and close the tab to activate. Once you hear a sound and see a green light, it will indicate that the device has been activated. Be sure to completely close the zip in order to successfully activate it, and only activate it while cycling. The LEDs on the front of the collar will tell you whether the device is active or not. You can deactivate it at any given point during your cycling activity.
Charging
Battery level is easy to check by using function button on collar. You can easily charge the battery with a USB cable. 2 hours of charging makes the battery last for 15 hours of active cycling.
Collars & Covers
The collar has been designed with a waterproof, functional fabric, which further fortifies the protection offered by the strong built-in airbag system. You cannot wash the collar, but it is protected against wear and tear, sweat and dirt by the surrounding fabric shell. However, if you manage to get stains or marks on the collar, you can easily rub them off with a damp cloth.
The collar features an ergonomic design that allows even weight distribution across the shoulders. It is slightly heavier at the back than at the front so that when cycling the weight is resting on your back.
It also features a stylish enclosing cover, which allows you to easily change the appearance and style of your Hövding by picking out a different cover to match up your outfit, mood or personal taste. You can get your own Hövding 3 airbag helmet for €349 (about $US396) from their website.
Source: Hövding
