A new helmet technology called Release Layer System (RLS) is ranking amongst the safest when it comes to protecting cyclists from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
Independent testing carried out by the biomechanics research center ICUBE at the University of Strasbourg revealed that helmets equipped with RLS reduced the peak rotational velocity by an average of 56% to 66% across different impact locations, compared to helmets without the technology.
“This corresponds to a 68% to 84% reduction in the probability of brain injury as estimated by the Abbreviated Injury Scale – Level 2,” claims RLS.
So what is RLS?
RLS is a patented technology that consists of a number of external shell panels that are connected to the helmet with a layer of small polycarbonate bearings, which allows the bearings to roll freely in the direction of the impact, releasing the panels in milliseconds to redirect the forces away from the the cyclist’s head.
How does RLS compare to Multi-directional Impact Protection aka MIPS?
“Some technologies, such as MIPS, aim to mitigate these rotational forces by allowing the helmet to rotate independently from the skull. These technologies, which are generally located on the inside of the helmet, offer a limited range of motion during the critical milliseconds of an impact,” says RLS
What type of impact does RLS have on the environment?
“We always look to minimize any negative environmental impact of our products. With RLS, the overall release is very small, usually less than 10% of the bearings activate in a crash, and we think the trade-off for the level of protection it provides is more than acceptable. It’s worth putting this in perspective: many products in cycling release non-organic particles through normal use. Think of tyres; every ride leaves rubber on the road or trail, and of course, with the auto industry, because of the weights involved, it’s more prevalent. Compared to that, the environmental footprint of RLS is tiny. That said, we don’t see this as the end of the journey. It’s far easier to imagine a future as materials develop with biodegradable RLS bearings than it is to imagine a world riding on tires that aren’t petroleum-based. Safety for us comes first, but we’re committed to pushing sustainability forward at the same time,” explains RLS.
What brand will be the first to incorporate RLS?
According to RLS, the first helmet to hit the market will be the Canyon Deflectr Trail Helmet that’s due for release this autumn, which already ranks number one on the Virginia Tech helmet safety ratings.
“We are incredibly excited to launch this technology, especially with our launch partners at Canyon as we share a passion for safety and disruption technology,” says RLS.
RLS says it will reveal further brands and partners over the coming months
RLS
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