Smart HeadGear
Project Overview
The Smart HeadGear system is designed to enhance safety and training practices in combat sports by providing quantitative data about head impacts. The system combines capacitive sensors and a gyroscope to collect raw data, which is then processed through Firebase to deliver actionable insights for trainers and coaches.
Key System Features
- Automatic Calibration: Sensors automatically calibrate to fit each individual's head size when the helmet is worn
- Round Timer: Integrated platform includes a round timer for training sessions
- Data Export: Session data can be exported for detailed analysis and tracking
- Safety Monitoring: Real-time impact monitoring with automatic warnings to coaches when impact thresholds are exceeded
Training Benefits
The system enables coaches to make preemptive decisions to prevent unnecessary concussions by:
- Providing quantitative data about impact forces
- Alerting coaches when impact thresholds are exceeded
- Allowing for informed decisions about training intensity
- Enabling data-driven adjustments to training practices
Project Demo
Smart HeadGear System Demonstration
Design Evolution
Version 0
Initial prototype - Front view
Initial prototype - Side view
Key Features:
- Basic sensor mounting
- Initial form factor testing
- Prototype electronics integration
Version 1
Improved design - Front view
Improved design - Side view
Improved design - Detail view
Key Features:
- Refined sensor positioning
- Improved ergonomics
- Enhanced electronics protection
Version Improvements
Major Enhancements from Version 0 to Version 1
Sensor Integration
In Version 1, capacitive sensors were sewn directly into the headgear, providing more accurate and reliable impact detection. The wires were routed to the top of the helmet where they connect to an embedded solderable breadboard.
Gyroscope Implementation
A gyroscope was strategically placed at the top of the head to measure head velocity post-impact. This critical addition allows for more accurate safety assessment by applying a multiplier to impact forces based on head movement.
Smart Impact Detection
The system was enhanced to only factor in gyroscope readings when an actual impact is detected by the capacitive sensors. This intelligent design prevents false positives from natural head movements like dodging punches.
Safety Score Accuracy
The combination of capacitive sensors and gyroscope data creates a more comprehensive safety scoring system that better reflects the true impact severity by considering both the direct force and the resulting head movement.
Live Monitoring Interface
The Smart HeadGear system includes a real-time monitoring dashboard that provides instant feedback on device status and impact metrics. The interface displays:
- Device connection status
- Maximum impact magnitude
- Current risk score
- Real-time sensor data
Live monitoring dashboard showing real-time device status and metrics
Project Updates
Update Week
Key developments in the final week:
- Implemented MPU6050 for precise x, y, z coordinate readings
- Set up Firebase integration for data storage and real-time monitoring
- Live monitoring dashboard at smartstrike-f66f6.web.app
- Real-time device status tracking
- Instant risk score updates
- Vinyl cut capacitive sensors for enhanced precision in pressure point readings
- Developed intelligent risk scoring system:
- Individual pressure point readings with standard deviation analysis
- MPU6050 readings only affect risk score when accompanied by capacitive sensor readings
- Prevents false positives from natural head movements (e.g., dodging)
System Integration
Progress on integrating all system components:
- Connected sensor array to processing unit
- Implemented data processing algorithms
- Developed wireless communication protocols
Hardware Development
Completed hardware components:
- Finalized sensor placement and calibration
- Completed power management system
- Implemented protective casing design
Development Process
System Design
Designed the sensor integration and monitoring system architecture.
Hardware Implementation
Built and integrated the sensor array and processing unit.
Software Development
Created the monitoring software and user interface.
Testing & Validation
Conducted comprehensive testing and validation of the system.
Key Features
Real-time Impact Detection
Instant detection and measurement of impact forces.
Data Analysis
Advanced algorithms for impact severity assessment.
Wireless Communication
Real-time data transmission to monitoring devices.
User Interface
Intuitive dashboard for data visualization and alerts.
Challenges & Solutions
Technical Challenges
Encountered challenges in sensor integration and data accuracy.
Solutions:
- Implemented advanced filtering algorithms
- Optimized sensor placement
- Enhanced data processing efficiency
- Improved power management
Final Holder Design
The final holder design for the Smart HeadGear system was created using 3D modeling software and optimized for 3D printing. The design features:
- Secure mounting points for sensors
- Ergonomic fit for headgear integration
- Optimized weight distribution
- Protective casing for electronic components
Project Files & Code
Arduino Code
// Smart HeadGear Arduino Code
// Main functionality for sensor reading and data transmission
#include
#include
#include
#include
// MPU6050 sensor for motion detection
Adafruit_MPU6050 mpu;
// Capacitive sensor configuration
const int CAP_SENSOR_DIGITAL_1 = 2; // Digital pin for first cap sensor
const int CAP_SENSOR_DIGITAL_2 = 3; // Digital pin for second cap sensor
const int CAP_SENSOR_ANALOG_1 = A0; // Analog pin for first cap sensor
const int CAP_SENSOR_ANALOG_2 = A1; // Analog pin for second cap sensor
// Sensor thresholds
const int CAP_DIGITAL_THRESHOLD = 500;
const int CAP_ANALOG_THRESHOLD = 500;
// Main loop features:
// - 10Hz sampling rate
// - JSON-formatted data output
// - Impact magnitude calculation
// - Dual sensor fusion (MPU6050 + Capacitive)
Key Features:
- MPU6050 accelerometer and gyroscope integration
- Dual capacitive sensor system (digital and analog)
- Real-time impact magnitude calculation
- JSON-formatted data output for Firebase integration
- 10Hz sampling rate for accurate impact detection
Firebase Configuration
{
"hosting": {
"public": "public",
"ignore": [
"firebase.json",
"**/.*",
"**/node_modules/**"
],
"rewrites": [
{
"source": "**",
"destination": "/index.html"
}
]
}
}
Project Structure
- Arduino Code: smart_headgear.ino - Main sensor reading and data transmission logic
- Firebase Setup:
- firebase.json - Hosting configuration
- setup-admin.js - Firebase initialization
- Web Interface:
- public/ - Web dashboard files
- arduino/ - Arduino-specific libraries and configurations