A 16-year-old student from Panevėžys has developed a smart helmet control system designed to save lives after surviving a motorcycle accident that he says could have ended very differently.
Modestas Raila created a universal device that alerts riders if their helmet is not properly fastened. The system emits a warning sound until the helmet is securely strapped.
“If it senses that this part is not touching the neck, it starts beeping. It will keep beeping until you fasten it,” Raila said while demonstrating his invention.
The concept is similar to a car seat belt warning system, but adapted for motorcyclists. A special sensor reacts only to contact with the rider’s neck to avoid false alarms. An integrated speed sensor ensures the signal activates only when the vehicle is moving, not when the rider is walking.
Raila said the idea stemmed from personal experience.
“After flying over a car and landing sideways with my head on the asphalt, I realised the helmet saved my life – precisely because it was fastened,” he said. “Later, I learned from people around me that riding with an unfastened helmet is quite common. Some people don’t survive.”
His teacher, Laura Kuchalskienė, said Raila has been impressing classmates and educators with inventions since primary school. Over the years, he has built elaborate Rube Goldberg-style machines that make lemonade and hamburgers, a foot-operated piano, reaction games and even a homemade buggy.
“This year’s idea is probably the most serious one yet,” Kuchalskienė said. “Previous projects attracted large audiences because they were very playful. But this year’s idea addresses a real safety issue.”
Raila said investors have already shown interest in the device, and he plans to turn the invention into a business. He hopes the product will eventually be available in physical and online shops and become a new safety standard.
In the future, he plans to adapt the helmet safety system for use by electric scooter riders and cyclists.
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