Function

The PROTEUS folding motorcycle helmet is a ground-breaking new design solution for optimising the portability of an essential road safety product. The PROTEUS helmet has a clever folding and locking system which ensures it is convenient to carry and easy to use, with consideration of Australian safety standards. Recognising and addressing a need for motorcycle commuters and travellers, the PROTEUS folding motorcycle helmet embodies the Dyson spirit of innovation, with the intention of pushing the boundaries of product design into the future.

Inspiration

Existing motorcycle helmets are bulky and awkward to carry. Urban commuters often have no choice but to carry them with them because if they are left with the motorcycle, they face weather damage or could be stolen. Additionally, travellers who ride motorcycles overseas are frequently caught wearing sub-standard, damaged safety equipment, or none at all. The PROTEUS offers a holistically considered design solution to address these issues – a helmet that can be carried in a standard sized backpack.

Development

Extensive research into helmet use was explored throughout the design process, resulting in an intuitive folding sequence and locking mechanism design. Human factors and ergonomics considered in the design of the helmet too, with sizing and fit critical to its success. Importantly, the Australian safety standards for motorcycle helmets also helped inform the design development. There are 3 key layers of impact protection provided by the PROTEUS. The first is the outer polycarbonate resin shell which protects against abrasion and puncture. The second is a standard impact-absorbing expanded polystyrene foam. The third is made from a pliable yet impact-absorbing material, which flexes in normal use, but then hardens instantly upon impact in the event of an accident. Additionally, the mechanism for attaching the visor is an original design that was necessary as existing visor attachment mechanisms were not appropriate for this new application.