The First Augmented Reality Helmet
The SKULLY AR- 1 is the first helmet to feature a built-in 180° Blind-spot Camera and Head-Up Display for unparalleled situational awareness and safety. This allows the rider to focus on what matters most, the road ahead. Total awareness, is total freedom.
In early 2014 I consulted on user interface and user experience for the head-up display as well as the companion smartphone app.
Early August 2014, the Indiegogo campaign launched and within 24 hours was fully funded. When the 30 day campaign closed 1940 backers contributed over $2.4 million to the development of the helmet. It is the most successfully funded wearable project, ever, on Indiegogo.
In February of 2015 an additional $11 million in Series A was raised to fund manufacturing which are now scheduled to be delivered mid 2016.
The Launch Video
The days before the campaign launched were intense. A complete restart, and many revisions later Robert Gomez Hernandez pushed the final edit live hours before the scheduled launch. A marathon push of over 36 hours straight to make the edit just right. "Turn left in twenty miles" still puts a smile on my face.
Capturing the Footage - On Track
Thunderhill Raceway in Willows California added nearly 3 miles to their existing track. It opened in June of 2014. On the 14th Keigwin's at the Track hosted the first day open for motorcycles. The freshly paved track, the golden hills and the slightly cloudy sky made for some striking visuals.
I attached two GoPros, one forward facing and one rear, to an older helmet to capture footage. The helmet was rather bulky but it allowed me to create a simulated view of the in-helmet experience.
Developing the Head Up Display User Interface
A few examples of the UI seen in the Indiegogo video.
Next Turn View
Mini Gas Gauge View
Mini Shift View
Alternate Directional Navigation without Rear Camera Active.
Incoming Call View
Mini Speed View
Alternate Telemetry View without Rear Camera Active.
Severe Weather Warning.
Developing the Smartphone Companion App
The companion app provides multiple visual additions to the HUD and acts as a backup to the voice control.
First Launch.
Exploring Surrounding Area.
Map View with GPS.
Navigation Route Options
On Track Testing
On June 23, 2014 I spent the day at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey California, testing the helmet on track. Each session felt better than the previous. The weight, shape, fit and finish provided a completely uncompromising experience.
These sessions were the perfect opportunity to work with Dito Milian of Got Blue Milk to capture promotional photos of the testing for upcoming marketing campaigns.
Big Head
Having a little fun with Photoshop to give myself the Big Head mod from the first person shooter game environments.
