Motorcyclist Adnan Khan has decided to use a little Arduino programming and microcontroller hardware to create helmet signalling lights that are linked to the indicators on his motorbike, providing other road users with plenty of notification on what his next manoeuvre will be. Watch the demonstration video below to learn more about the project which uses an Arduino Uno integrated into the motorbike signalling system plus an Arduino Nano embedded in the helmet together with a pair of nRF24L01 transceivers connecting the two Arduinos wirelessly together.
How It Works
Adnan’s innovative project involves a sophisticated yet accessible setup. The Arduino Uno, which is a popular microcontroller board, is connected to the motorbike’s existing signalling system. This board processes the signals from the bike’s indicators and sends this information wirelessly to the Arduino Nano located in the helmet. The communication between the two Arduinos is facilitated by nRF24L01 transceivers, which are low-cost, low-power, and highly efficient for such applications.
The helmet is equipped with LED lights that are controlled by the Arduino Nano. When the motorbike’s indicators are activated, the Arduino Uno sends a signal to the Arduino Nano, which then lights up the corresponding LEDs on the helmet. This setup ensures that other road users can clearly see the rider’s intentions, even if they are not directly behind the motorbike.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Adnan has kindly made available the transmitter code and receiver code, enabling you to build your very own project via the YouTube description. However, as the Arduino Blog reminds us, “Although a neat concept, be sure that you don’t compromise your helmet’s structural integrity or legality if you try something similar! Code is available in the video’s description.”
When modifying a helmet, it’s crucial to ensure that the modifications do not weaken the helmet’s protective capabilities. Helmets are designed to absorb impact and protect the rider’s head in the event of an accident. Any changes to the helmet’s structure could potentially reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s important to use adhesives and mounting techniques that do not damage the helmet.
Additionally, it’s essential to check local laws and regulations regarding helmet modifications and the use of additional lighting. Some regions have strict rules about what can and cannot be added to a helmet or a motorbike. Ensuring that your modifications are legal will help you avoid fines and ensure that your safety measures are recognized by other road users.
Expanding the Project
For those interested in expanding on Adnan’s project, there are several ways to enhance the functionality and usability of the helmet signalling system. One idea is to integrate brake lights into the helmet. This could be achieved by adding another set of LEDs that light up when the motorbike’s brakes are applied. This would provide an additional layer of safety by making it even clearer to other road users when the rider is slowing down or stopping.
Another potential enhancement is to use more advanced communication modules, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, to allow for more complex interactions between the motorbike and the helmet. For example, a Bluetooth module could be used to connect the helmet to a smartphone app, allowing the rider to customize the lighting patterns or receive notifications about the status of the helmet’s battery.
For more information, jump over to the Arduino blog or the MechTools YouTube channel.
Source: AB
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