Patent Publication Number: US-7905620-B2

Title: Electrical system for helmets and helmets so equipped

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/040,974 filed Jan. 21, 2005 entitled “Electrical Power System to Crash Helmets,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,033,302 issued Dec. 4, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/544,687 entitled “Helmet Power System” filed Feb. 17, 2004 which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. This application is also related to U.S. Pat. No. 7,530,704, issued May 12, 2009, to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/981,848 filed Oct. 30, 2007, now abandoned, and to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/418,157 filed Apr. 3, 2009, pending. This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/974,500, filed on Oct. 11, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,530,704, issued May 12, 2009. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to safety equipment. Specifically, an electrical power system for crash helmets is described. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Crash helmets (“helmets”) are used for a variety of purposes, providing cranial and neck safety protection for users in industries such as sports and leisure, equipment and vehicle operation, construction, military, law enforcement, and others. Helmets offer basic protection of head and neck areas, providing hard surfaces to deflect impacts from physical force or traumas that could cause temporary or permanent physical injury. Helmets can also provide other features beyond basic protection. 
     Conventional helmets may offer features such as heads-up displays, optical or aural protection, lighting, and communication systems. However, conventional helmet systems often require power sources or supplies that may be heavy or externally coupled to a helmet. Conventional helmets also require significant user interaction in order to activate or deactivate a feature. Equipment such as batteries, power cells, processors, communication transceivers, night/low vision goggle or visor systems can be implemented but require external electrical power supplies and electrical connections to a power supply. The external connections and power supplies are often bulky, difficult to use, and vulnerable to damage. Additionally, external components may require significant user interaction in order to attach and use the feature, creating a potential safety risk. For example, a motorcycle police officer attempting to activate and hold an external flash light while handling a notepad or other equipment exposes the officer to potential harm while preoccupied with activating his light. Military personnel using a heads-up display or night/low-vision system with their helmet while maneuvering through difficult terrain may risk damage or vulnerability due to external wires and power supplies inhibiting movement. 
     Thus, what is needed is a solution for electrical power for crash helmets and related systems without the limitations of conventional techniques. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet including a chinbar; 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet coupled to a power supply; 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates an exemplary power system for a crash helmet coupled to an alternative power supply; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system insert for a crash helmet; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates another alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates another alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system; 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system; 
         FIG. 9  is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit; 
         FIG. 10  is a circuit diagram illustrating an alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit; 
         FIG. 11A  illustrates an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet; 
         FIG. 11B  is a frontal view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet; 
         FIG. 12  is a rear view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet; 
         FIG. 13  is an alternative rear view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet; and 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Implementation of described techniques may occur in numerous ways, including as a system, device, apparatus, process, a computer readable medium such as a computer readable storage medium, or a computer network wherein program instructions are sent over optical or electronic communication links. 
     A detailed description of one or more embodiments is provided below along with accompanying figures that illustrate the principles of the embodiments. The scope of the embodiments is limited only by the claims and encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description. These details are provided solely for the purposes of example and the embodiments may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. 
     Electrical power systems for crash helmets are described. Various devices, components, and systems using electrical power may be implemented. In keeping with various embodiments described herein, electrical power may be supplied from a power cell or battery to different devices, systems, or components integrated with a helmet. These devices, systems, or components may be manually or automatically activated using a switch coupled to a power cell using various electrical leads, wires or connectors (“leads”). By implementing an electrical power system in a helmet, external power sources and the need for external attachments or hardware are eliminated, enabling features or enhancements to be coupled to a helmet while using power drawn from a helmet electrical power supply. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet  100  is shown including shell  102 , visor  104 , power cell  106 , electrical leads  108 , connector  110 , vent  112 , and side vents  114 . In some embodiments, shell  102  may be implemented using materials such as plastic, metal, metal alloys, composite materials (e.g., KEVLAR®), or other materials that provide impact-resistant strength. Also, power cell  106  may be implemented as a single power cell or as a series of power cells (i.e., a battery), which may be used to store a DC charge when charged by, for example, an AC (e.g., 110 V, 60 Hz) or DC (e.g., 12V) power source. Power distribution from power cell  106  may also be implemented by conducting current along electrical leads  108 . Electrical leads  108  may be implemented using copper, steel, various metal alloys, or other types of electrically conductive materials. In some embodiments, power cell  106  may also include components such as a processor, switch, a ventilation fan and motor, and other electrical or electronic devices. In other embodiments, power cell  106  may be implemented using various types of batteries (e.g., lithium ion, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydroxide, and others). Additionally, connector  110  may be used to couple, either directly or indirectly, power cell  106  to an external charger or power inverter. A power charge or inverter may be used to build, store, or discharge electrical energy stored in power cell  106 . An electrical charge may be provided from power cell  106  along electrical leads  108  to various components, or systems. Although not shown, an electrical switch (e.g., contact, pressure, mechanical, electromechanical, or others) may be used to allow electrical current to flow from power cell  106  to other systems. Additionally, power cell  106  may be coupled to other systems attached, coupled, connected, or formed in shell  102 . In some embodiments, features, enhancements, or other systems providing lighting, communication, or information may be provided in other parts of helmet  100 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet including a chinbar. In some embodiments, helmet  200  includes shell  202 , visor  204 , chinbar  206 , power cell  208 , electrical leads  210 , and connector  212 . Here, chinbar  206  may be implemented using various materials such as polystyrene, injection molded plastic, or other plastic compounds of varying stiffness material rigidity. Chinbar  206  may also be implemented as a single piece or as multiple pieces and are not limited to the examples described herein. Modifications to chinbar  206  may be implemented using alternative materials and configurations other than those discussed herein. For example, different materials, shapes, material compositions, configurations, components, and other modifications may be implemented. As an example, chinbar  206  may include power cell  208  and electrical leads  210  secured within an internal cavity or pocket. As part of chinbar  206 , an exemplary electrical power system such as those described herein may be implemented to provide electrical power to other components attached, connected, or coupled to helmet  200  without requiring an external source of power or leads. Further, the need for wiring, mounting, and mounting hardware for coupling an external power source are eliminated. Additionally, numerous components may be operated using power delivered by an electrical current from power cell  208 . Some components may include one or more ventilation fans, heads-up display, lighting, communication systems (e.g., BLUETOOTH®, IEEE 802.11 standard-based wireless communications modules and components), and others. 
       FIG. 3A  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet coupled to a power supply. In some embodiments, helmet  300  may be implemented using shell  302 , visor  304 , power cell  306 , electrical leads  308 , connectors  310  and  312 , supply lead  314 , plug  316 , and power outlet  318 . Here, power cell  306  may be charged and re-charged by plugging into a DC or AC power supply, power inverter, charger, or other device such as power outlet  318 . In some embodiments, power outlet  318  may be a portable or installed power source. In other embodiments, power outlet  318  may be implemented differently. 
     Here, electrical current charges power cell  306 , which may used to provide an electrical current to other devices, systems, or components in helmet  300 . Although not shown, other devices, systems, or components such as fans, fan motors, processors and microprocessors, display systems, and the like may be included. Connectors  310  and  312  provide a connection between power cell  306  and power outlet  318 , enabling electrical current to flow between components located at various endpoints of an electrical system embedded in a helmet. In some embodiments, connectors  310  and  312  may be implemented using female-male connectors, snap, mechanical, or other types of connectors. When connector  310  is not coupled to connector  312 , connector  310  may be inserted or tucked into a pocket, cavity, or other restraining structure within chinbar or cheek pad (not shown) to prevent it from catching on any passing obstructions. Alternatively, electrical leads  308  and connector  310  may be detached from power cell  306  and stored separately. In other embodiments, electrical leads  308  and connector  310  may be attached to another device, system, or component in helmet  300 . 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates an exemplary power system for a crash helmet coupled to an alternative power supply. Here, helmet  300  includes shell  302 , visor  304 , power supply  306 , electrical leads  308 , connectors  310  and  312 , supply lead  314 , and charger  320 . In some embodiments, charger  320  may be used to provide a DC voltage to charge or recharge power cell  306 . Charger  320  may be implemented as a single cell or multiple cell battery (e.g., LiOH, NiMH, NiCD, and others), as a solar charger, power inverter, or as another AC/DC charger. In some embodiments, supply lead  314  may be detachable or hard-wired into charger  320 . If hard-wired, charger  320  may be remotely, but proximally, located to helmet  300 . For example, helmet  300  may be worn by a motorcyclist while charger  320  may be physically located elsewhere on a suit worn by the motorcyclist or on the motorcycle. If a solar charger is used, charger  320  may be worn on an external surface of helmet  300 , converting solar energy to electrical energy to provide a constant charge to power cell  306 . In some embodiments, charger  320  may be a motorcycle battery (e.g., 12V DC) that, when connected via connectors  310  and  312 , supplies an electrical current to charge or recharge power cell  306 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary electrical power system insert for a crash helmet. Here, system  400  includes pad  402 , which has cheekpad  404 , power cell  406 , electrical leads  408 , connector  410 , output leads  412 , and light  414 . In some embodiments, pad  402  may be fitted for half or three-quarter (¾) helmets with no chinbar. If no chinbar is included, power cell  406  may be integrated, secured within, or formed into cheekpad  404 . In other embodiments, cheekpad  404  may be manufactured with a hollow pocket having an opening for inserting power cell  406  inside. The elasticity of material used to implement cheekpad  404  may be high enough to permit the opening to be stretched to allow the passage of power cell  406  to the cavity formed within cheekpad  404 . In other embodiments, power cell  406  may be inserted before, during, or after manufacturing pad  402  and cheekpad  404 . In still other embodiments, power cell  406  may be implemented differently. 
     In some embodiments, power cell  406  may be used to provide electrical current to additional devices, systems, or components included with the electrical power system. For example, light  414  may be powered using an electrical DC voltage provided by power cell  406 . Power cell  406  may be a single or multiple cell battery storing an electrochemical charge that, when output, provides a DC voltage to light  414 . In some embodiments, light  414  may be implemented as an incandescent, light-emitting diode, or other light-emitting device. A switch (not shown) disposed between power cell  406  and light  414  may provide a user with the ability to control the light (i.e., activate, deactivate). In other embodiments, light  414  may be replaced or supplemented with other components such as a power- or voice-activated wireless transmission system for cellular or mobile phone communications, short-range RF transceivers, camera or imaging device, display (e.g., heads-up display), or other electrically powered devices. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet  500  includes shell  502 , pad  504 , cheekpad  506 , power cell  508 , electrical leads  510 , connector  512 , output leads  514 , and light  516 . Here pad  504 , which, in some embodiments, may be similar to pad  402  described above in connection with  FIG. 4 , may be inserted into helmet  500  and shell  502  as shown. Power cell  508 , electrical leads  510 , connector  512 , output leads  514 , and light  516  may be configured in helmet  500  as shown. If a half or three-quarters (i.e., the helmet varies in the length of coverage or protection offered to the wearer) helmet is used, light  516  may be slightly recessed into the side lining of shell  502 , providing a housed light that is under shell  502  but able to illuminate a field of view. Additionally, the cone of illumination provided by light  516  may also be adjusted in terms of height, angle, lateral displacement, and other factors that may provide efficient lighting for a person wearing helmet  500 . In other embodiments, different or additional devices, systems, or components may be included in different positions or locations of pad  504 . As an example, light  516  may be included in the left cheekpad of pad  504  while a camera may be included in the wearer&#39;s right cheekpad. In law enforcement applications, light  516  provides illumination without requiring burdensome physical activity by the user while engaging in other activities (e.g., writing on a notepad, observing or stopping a suspect while illuminating a dimly lit vehicle, and the like). 
     Electrical current flows from power cell  508  to light  516  and other components. In some embodiments, a camera (not shown), or other electrically powered equipment may be coupled to shell  502 , pad  504  or other portions of helmet  500  without the need for an external power source. In other embodiments, additional equipment may be easily replaced by providing easily manipulated pads having pockets, fasteners, locks, or other devices used to secure equipment to pad  504 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates another alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet  600  includes shell  602 , pad  604 , right cheekpad  606 , left cheekpad  608 , power cell  610 , electrical leads  612 , connector  614 , output leads  616 , and light  618 . In some embodiments, helmet  600  may be a half or three-quarter helmet, providing an electrical power system in cheekpads or other liners such as right cheekpad  606  or left cheekpad  608 . An electrical power system may be used to provide power to light  618 . In other embodiments, power cell  610  may supply power via output leads  616  to other systems such as a microprocessor, wireless communications transceiver (e.g., BLUETOOTH®, or another RF transmitter), heads-up display, or other electrical or electronic system. Some or all of these systems may be included with helmet  600 , which provides electrical power to various systems from power cell  610 , which is formed or placed within an internal structure (e.g., left cheekpad  608 ) of helmet  600 . In additional embodiments, a switch (not shown) may be incorporated which provides a user with the ability to open or close an electrical path to supply power to an electrically connected or coupled system (e.g., light  618 ). Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments described above. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates another alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system. In some embodiments, helmet  700  includes shell  702 , peak  704 , neck curtain  706 , strap  708 , power cell  710 , electrical leads  712 , switch  714 , output leads  716 , and light  718 . As an example, helmet  700  may be a law enforcement helmet worn such as that worn by a police officer. An electrical power system for helmet  700  may be installed in neck curtain  706 . In some embodiments, the electrical power system including, at least, power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  714 , may be implemented as part of neck curtain  706 . Here, the left side of neck curtain  706  includes power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  714 . However, in other embodiments, more or fewer components may be included. For example, in addition to light  718 , a camera or imaging device may be included. A microprocessor, heads-up display, or other electrical component may be used, providing additional functionality installed in helmet  700  without requiring the use of external systems. In the context of law enforcement applications, having systems such as power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  716 , internal electrical distribution provides for ease of use and frees the hands of the wearer to engage in other activities such as handling different equipment while providing illumination from the helmet at approximately the user&#39;s eye level. In some embodiments, light  718 , which may be set at eye level, provides for direct or indirect illumination at a convenient height and direction for the user. As a user moves, turns, or directs his/her vision, light  718  illuminates the field of view for the user without requiring the user to direct or handle an external light, flashlight, or illumination source. This may also be useful in contexts in addition to law enforcement aspects, including military, emergency services, and basic vehicle (e.g., motorcycle) operator safety. In other embodiments, some or all of power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  716  may be implemented in a different part of helmet  700  (e.g., right side of neck curtain  706 ) and are not limited to the embodiment shown. 
     Other embodiments may include additional or fewer components with the electrical power system that at least includes power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  716 . For example, power cell  710  may be implemented as a single electrical storage cell device or as a multiple cell storage device (e.g., battery) for electrical power. In still other embodiments, some or all of power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  716  may be implemented in a liner, cranial pad, or other internal structure within shell  702 , providing an alternative location other than neck curtain  708 . Power cell  710 , switch  714 , electrical leads  712 , and output leads  716  may be located within, for example, peak  704  or another related structure of helmet  700 . 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system. In some embodiments, system  800  may include a battery module  802 , light  804 , display  806 , memory  808 , processor  810 , communications module  812 , electrical bus  814 , and communications signal  816 . Here, battery module  802  may also include logic for controlling electrical power distribution to other components in system  800 . Battery module  802  may also provide an AC or DC power to other components in system  800 . In other embodiments, there may be more, fewer, or different components other than those shown in system  800 . 
     The components shown in system  800  may be implemented using various techniques and equipment. For example, light  804  may be implemented using a light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent, incandescent, or other type of bulb. In other embodiments, battery module  802  may be implemented using a single or multiple cell battery. In some embodiments, lithium ion, nickel-metal-hydride, or other fuel cell technologies may be used for battery module  802 . In other embodiments, display  806  may be implemented using a simple back-lit display, a heads-up display, an electrophoretic display, a display built into a visor, or other variations as may be envisioned. In other embodiments, processor  810  may be implemented using a microprocessor (e.g., 32-bit, 64-bit, and others) for processing control signals to control various components in system  800 , including memory  808 . For memory  808 , various implementations may be used to provide data storage for various purposes such as power settings to extend or shorten the duration of use for battery module  802 , pre-determined settings for display  806 , light  804  (e.g., light  804  may be pre-programmed using a program stored in memory  808  and controlled by processor  810  to determine a particular time of day or night as to when light  804  is activated), and others. In other embodiments, processor  810  may process control signals with communications module  812 , which may be implemented using various types of wireless (e.g., RF) communications systems for either short-range (e.g., motorcycle-to-motorcycle, unit-to-unit), cellular, or other mobile communications. In some embodiments, systems installed on a motorcycle may be activated or deactivated by control signals sent from processor  810  over communications module  812 . In some embodiments, control programs stored in memory  808  may be used to control functions such as activating a motorcycle headlamp when a low-level light environment is detected. Power from battery module  802  distributed over system  800  provides flexible, safe, and efficient power distribution. 
       FIG. 9  is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit. Here, circuit  900  includes power cell  902 , switch  904 , and lamp  906 . Lamp  906  may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, switch  904 . In some embodiments, other circuit components may be included and circuit  900  may be implemented differently, including various circuit elements or components added in either series or parallel configurations. In other embodiments, switch  904  may be coupled to a wireless transceiver (not shown) that enables remote activation and deactivation of electrical current to one, some or all circuit elements. 
       FIG. 10  is a circuit diagram illustrating an alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit. In some embodiments, circuit  1000  includes power cell  1002 , motor switch  1004 , motor  1006 , lamp switch  1008 , and lamp  1010 . Here, motor  1006  may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, motor switch  1004 . Likewise, lamp  1010  may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, lamp switch  1008 . In some embodiments, other circuit components may be included and circuit  1000  may be implemented differently, including various components in either series or parallel configurations. In other embodiments, motor switch  1004  may be coupled to a wireless transceiver (not shown) that enables remote activation and deactivation of electrical current to one, some or all circuit elements. In the above embodiments, variations may be performed to enable local or remote control, using direct or indirect means (e.g., wireless RF transceivers) for sending control signals to activate or deactivate a switch (e.g., switch  904 , motor switch  1004 ) or other elements of electrical power systems for helmets. Different circuit configurations may be implemented by modifying some or all of the circuit elements shown and described above. Various implementations may be used and electrical circuit configurations are not limited to those embodiments described above. 
       FIG. 11A  illustrates an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. Here, helmet  1100  includes shell  1102 , foam element  1104 , visor  1106 , switch  1108 , lights  1110  and  1112 , battery  1114 , chinstrap  1116 , and vents  1118 . In some embodiments, helmet  1100  may include an electrical system, such as those described above, for uses within recreational or working bicycle helmets for various uses, including racing, recreation, athletic competition, riding, law enforcement, child safety, public safety, and others. Electrical power systems such as those described above may be used in any type of helmet and are neither restricted nor limited to those shown. Mining, construction, military, law enforcement, recreation, athletic competition, mountaineering, rock climbing, and other types of helmets may have electrical power systems such as those described. 
     Here, battery  1114  may be housed within helmet  1100 . In some examples, battery  1114  may be housed within a cavity, hole, housing, or other structure formed within foam element  1104 . In some embodiments, foam element  1104  may be formed using expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), GECET® foam as developed by GENERAL ELECTRIC®, expanded polyurethane, TAU® multi-impact (i.e., re-up foam), and other forms of beaded or unbeaded materials that are used to form crushable materials that, when impacted, convert impact energy to heat energy, thus slowing an impact and distributing force while protecting a wearer of helmet  100 . As an example, if foam element  1104  is formed using EPS, a housing may be formed to allow battery  1114  to be inserted into the housing and shell  1102  may be coupled (i.e., using glue, tape, VELCRO®, or other adhesive materials) together. In some embodiments, helmets may be formed using shell  1102  that holds various elements of an electrical power system (e.g., wires, circuits, battery  1114 , processor, and others) and, when shell  1102  is coupled to foam element  1104 , an integral system is formed, such as helmet  1100 . Electrical power may be provided by operating switch  1108 , which enables current to flow from battery  1114  to lights  1110  and  1112 . In other examples, different elements may be coupled to helmet  1100 . For example, a BLUETOOTH® communications module may be coupled to an electrical distribution system within helmet  1100 , thus allowing the wearer (i.e., rider) to use a mobile phone while riding his/her bicycle, thus allowing hands-free use to ensure rider safety. Thus, distribution of electrical power and current may be provided, allowing a wearer to employ various types of devices that provide light, communication, information (e.g., heads-up displays), and other features. In other embodiments, helmet  1110  may be implemented differently and is not limited to the examples shown and described. Various types, sizes, and shapes of bicycle helmets may be used and are not intended to be limited to any particular set of dimensions or manufacturer. 
       FIG. 11B  is a frontal view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. Here, a frontal view of helmet  1120  is shown, which may be similar to helmet  1100  illustrated and described above in connection with  FIG. 11A . Helmet  1120  includes shell  1102 , visor  1106 , switch  1108 , light  1110 , battery  1114 , chinstrap  1116 , and vents  1118 . Battery  1114  may be housed within a cavity or other enclosure formed within foam element  1104  ( FIG. 11A ; not shown in  FIG. 11B ) and, when switch  1108  is operated, current is allowed to flow to elements such as light  1110 . In some embodiments, battery  1114  may be placed off-center (i.e., either side of the lateral center axis of helmet  1120 ) in order to prevent impeding air flow through vents  1118 . Further, the contour of helmet  1120  may be designed to redistribute energy from an impact and, by placing battery  1114  in a housing between vents  1118 , the safety design and configuration of helmet  1110  is not weakened. In other words, by placing battery  1114  within a cavity of foam element  1114  and then sealed by coupling shell  1102  to foam element  1114 , the structural integrity of helmet  1120  is maintained. Further, by using a rechargeable, flat battery or power cell, such as those described above, minimal weight is added and the impact to the wearer does not impact the performance of the rider due to weight considerations. In other embodiments, the above-described elements, features, and functions of helmet  1120  may be implemented differently and are not limited to the examples provided. 
       FIG. 12  is a rear view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. Here, system  1200  includes shell  1102 , foam element  1104 , lights  1112 , battery  1114 , chinstraps  1116 , vents  1118 , rear support  1202 , alternative battery  1204 , wires  1206 , charging cable  1208 , charging plug  1210  (which may be plugged directly or indirectly into wall outlet  1212 ), light mount  1214 , male coupling  1216 , and female coupling  1218 . In some embodiments, battery  1114  may be implemented using alternative battery  1204 , which is shown with placed in a housing formed in foam element  1104  and under shell  1102 . When male coupling  1216  is coupled to female coupling  1218 , battery  1204  or battery  1114  may be recharged using current provided from wall outlet  1212  via charging plug  1210 . Once charged, male coupling  1216  may be uncoupled from female coupling  1218 , allowing wires  1206  to be secured between shell  1102  and foam element  1104 . In other embodiments, wires  1206  may be secured using a pocket, channel, adhesive, VELCRO®, strap, or the like. Various alternatives for securing wires  1206  may be used and are not limited to the examples provided. Once uncoupled from charging cable  1208 , helmet  1200  may be used and worn, providing electrical power and current to lights (e.g., incandescent, light emitting diodes (LED), or other types of bulbs), which provide rear safety lights to motorists and others approaching the wearer. Further, different types and techniques for charging battery  1114  or battery  1204  may be used and are not limited to the example shown. In other embodiments, helmet  1200  may be implemented differently and is not limited to the design, function, structure, or materials of the examples shown and described. 
       FIG. 13  is an alternative rear view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. Here, helmet  1300  includes shell  1102 , foam element  1104 , lights  1112 , battery  1114 , chinstraps  1116 , vents  1118 , rear support  1202 , alternative battery  1204 , wires  1206 , charging cable  1208 , charging plug  1210 , light mount  1214 , male coupling  1216 , and female coupling  1218 . In some embodiments, battery  1114  or battery  1204  may be recharged using solar cell  1302 . By attaching male coupling  1216  to female coupling  1218 , electrical power and current may be generated by photovoltaic cell  1302  that captures and converts light to electricity for storage in battery  1114  or alternative battery  1204 . Once stored, electricity may be distributed to other elements of helmet  1300 , including lights  1112 . In other embodiments, a matrix of solar (i.e., photovoltaic) cells may be used, allowing greater and faster recharging abilities for recharging battery  1114  and battery  1204 . In other examples, helmet  1300  may be implemented differently and is not limited to the examples, functions, structure, or other features shown. 
       FIG. 14  is a bottom view of an alternative exemplary power system for a bicycle helmet. Here, helmet  1400  includes shell  1402 , visor  1404 , battery  1406 , wire  1408 , light mount  1410 , posts  1412 , light mount  1414 , vents  1416 , charging cable coupling  1418 , and light  1420 . In some embodiments, shell  1402  may be coupled or attached to a foam element (not shown). When coupled using glue, tape, VELCRO®, or any other type of adhesive material, battery  1406  is fit within a housing (e.g., insert, hole, cavity, or other formed opening in foam element  1104  ( FIGS. 11A ,  11 B,  12 , and  13 ). Further, a channel (e.g., groove, shallow trench, or the like) may be formed to also house wiring  1408 , which may also be “tucked” or inserted into a channel within a foam element. Once mated, shell  1402  forms a complete helmet, such as those described above in connection with  FIGS. 11A ,  11 B,  12 , and  13 . When worn, helmet  1400  may provide electrical current to light  1420  that, when powered by battery  1406 , provides illumination for a wearer while riding a bicycle. Further, the above-described embodiments are examples of how an electrical distribution system may be formed into a helmet for various types of purposes and used to provide features such as lighting, communications, and information. In other embodiments, different designs, structures, materials, or features may be implemented and are not limited to the examples shown and described. 
     Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, the invention is not limited to the details provided. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive.