Digital_Cowboy

I found this in another forum:

A project from MIT:

"MindRider is a helmet that translates electroencephalogram (EEG) feedback into an embedded LED display. For the wearer, green lights indicate a focused, active mental state, while red lights indicate drowsiness, anxiety, and other states not conducive to operating a bike or vehicle. Flashing red lights indicate extreme anxiety (panic). As many people return to cycling as a primary means of transportation, MindRider can support safety by adding visibility and increased awareness to the cyclist/motorist interaction process."

https://web.media.mit.edu/~arlduc/projects/mindrider/

As good of an idea as it is, I think that it is targeting the wrong demographic.

CB HI

If it is a "feedback" device, why are the lights positioned so that the object of the feedback cannot see them.

If it is intended to give info to motorist, I am able to do that for free without any fancy lights and brain connections.

Digital_Cowboy

CB,

This was my response to the post:

That sounds like it has potential. But instead of being "targeted" at cyclists, I think that it would be better targeted at drivers. As they're the ones who actually bring the danger to the roads.

And given that all new cars are already computerized. It could be hardwired into the cars computer system. A pressure sensor could also be installed into the drivers seat so that the car couldn't be driven without wearing the "helmet."

Maybe also including sensor's and software that monitor's the vitals of the driver. As well as the the "helmet" wired/built into the headrest of the drivers seat. That way the driver couldn't drive without wearing the "helmet" nor could s/he give it to someone else in the car who is in a better mood. The sensors could also monitor a person's BAC, and whether or not they had drugs in their system, their blood sugar levels, heart rate, pulse, blood pressure, and probably several other vitals.

By wiring the "helmet" and sensors into the car's computer system. If the driver was not in the proper mental state to drive, or had alcohol and/or drugs in his/her system that would make them a danger to be behind the wheel and on the road, then the car wouldn't start. If while they were driving, things changed, then the onboard computer could slow the car down giving the driver enough to time to pull over and park. And then once parked it wouldn't start again until after the drivers readings return to the baseline readings.

The car(s) could also be equipped with an RFID reader, and the speed limit signs could likewise have have RFID chips embedded in them. As well as the ability to relay via cellular communications the cars speed to the police, and if the car's driver/owner tries to "hack" the onboard computer it likewise sends a signal to the police.

It could also be used to send information to the hospital or doctor of the car owners/drivers choice. So that if they're involved in a crash the hospital and EMS/EMT will have a baseline of the patients readings before the crash as well as they'll have a recording of their vitals at the time of the crash.

One question that I have is what do they mean by "These features may also allow for hands-free control of cycle function." It is already possible to safely ride a bicycle hands-free. So what do they mean by "may also allow for hands-free control?"

Also with the placement of the LEDs on the helmet, how is the cyclist or driver suppose to know when they're too anxious, stressed, etc. to continue riding? Or likewise if it's wired into a cars computer? Although if it's wired into a cars computer system then there could be a couple of LEDs added to the dashboard to alert the driver to said changes in his/her state and fitness to continue to drive.

Overall, I do think that this is a good idea. It's just being marketed to the wrong demographic.

Rx Rider

so it let's others be aware you're zoning out or freaking out? I know if I'm freaking out, I'm the one screaming.

I like the idea of a bike helmet with flashing lights, that's cool.

CB HI

I will make my millions selling Mood Helmets like the guys selling mood rings.

Get hot guys, demand Mandatory Helmet Laws.