Computerized Football Helmets for NFL Football Players

Severe concussions figured among the brain injuries recently sustained by National Football League (NFL) football players who play a game that is nothing less than dangerous. However, two companies: Riddell and Intel have teamed up to offer what they call "smart" football helmets "laced" with an artificial intelligence capable of detecting potentially life-threatening impacts on the football field. The helmets are designed to immediately transmit their medical data to coaches who can intervene in the hope of at least reducing the long-term consequences of concussions and other brain injuries. Data from these football helmets might even be uploaded to a medical facility for analysis by neurologists and other doctors. Imagine a computer inside a piece of sports equipment.

Currently, football helmets, including those that are worn by NFL football players, have too many limitations. While players on the football field have some protection from forceful blows causing fractures in the skull, other brain injuries, or injuries to the neck; they don't offer the best guard against low level force from traveling through the helmet to the brain leading to a concussion. The new computerized football helmet is designed to offer protection against both types of impact. But, will these New Age helmets really be effective against brain injuries? Representatives of the NFL say that they are concerned not only for NFL football players, but for all who play the game. People, however, are wondering what price will be slapped on these helmets.

Public Opinion on This New Kind of Helmet

A significant number of people lack faith in such an attempt to incorporate this type of medical technology on the football field, stating that the problem is not with the game, but with the willingness among NFL football players to play it. The real and constant threat of brain injuries, according to some, should be enough to deter anyone from participating in the deadly "game." Sports, such as football and basketball, in the United States have become somewhat of a "religion" in the opinion of many.

Perhaps these beliefs and opinions are what prompted comments such as, "Simple solution: outlaw that game, and any other game so openly violent." Others have commented that those who are willing to expose themselves to an enduring threat of brain injuries on the football field already have some type of brain damage. Aspiring football players and some fans of the game, however, view the invention of computerized football helmets as a wonderful contribution to the sport. Ultimately, time will tell all.

Source:

Jacob Aron
Briefing: Time for Smart Helmets in the Super bowl?
NewScientist.com