Ep 11. Inside Out Helmet

"Innovation Nation" season 5 episode 11 explores the fascinating invention of the Inside Out Helmet. Host Mo Rocca takes viewers on a journey through the history of bike helmets and the advancements that have made them safer over time. However, with the Inside Out Helmet, the focus shifts from external protection to internal safety. The helmet features groundbreaking technology that can detect concussions and other brain injuries in real-time.

Rocca sits down with the inventor of the Inside Out Helmet, Dr. Joel Lubar, a renowned neuroscientist who has spent decades researching and understanding brain injuries. Lubar shares his personal motivation for creating the helmet, which stems from his experience working with children who had sustained brain injuries. He found that traditional helmets did not provide adequate protection for the brain, which led him to develop the Inside Out Helmet.

The episode also highlights the meticulous design process that went into creating the helmet. Viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the multiple prototypes and testing phases that allowed Lubar and his team to refine the technology. The helmet uses an array of sensors to measure impact and acceleration in real-time. These sensors connect to a device that riders wear on their backs, which processes the data and alerts the rider if a potential concussion has occurred.

Rocca also interviews athletes and experts in the field who highlight the importance of the Inside Out Helmet's technology. Former NFL player Solomon Wilcots shares his own experience with concussions and how he believes the helmet could have prevented many of his injuries. Other experts explain how the helmet can help detect concussions that may have gone unnoticed, allowing athletes to get the treatment they need before their injuries worsen.

The episode also takes a deeper dive into the science behind concussions and brain injuries. Viewers learn about the different types of brain injuries and their long-term effects, as well as the challenges of detecting these injuries in real-time. The Inside Out Helmet has the potential to revolutionize not only sports but also the medical field as a whole by providing a tool for quickly and accurately detecting brain injuries.

Overall, "Innovation Nation" season 5 episode 11 showcases the incredible innovation behind the Inside Out Helmet, a groundbreaking invention that has the potential to change the way we think about brain injuries. The episode provides an engaging and informative look at the design process, technology, and science behind the helmet, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in sports safety, technology, or medical advancements.