# Helmet Vending Machines The 'Helmethub' Dispenses Helmets to Riders Renting Bikes By Alexander Lam | Published 2013-06-01 | Social Good Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/helmet-vending-machine References: [psfk](http://www.psfk.com/2013/05/boston-helmet-rental-vendin-machine.html) & [helmet-hub](http://www.helmet-hub.com/) Keeping those using a [bicycle sharing system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/venhub) safe, the 'Helmethub' [helmet vending machine](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merchandise-vending-machine) dispenses safety gear to protect unwary bikers. The machines were built to go along with Boston's bicycle sharing program called 'Hubway.' Since the program didn't include the ever-essential bike helmet, twelve MIT students decided to come up with a solution. The automatic helmet vendors each hold 36 helmets. With solar panels, the machine powers itself. Users can interact with the machine using a touchscreen. In order to promote safety, the rentals were set with a low price of $2. Used helmets can be dropped off at any other hub. The helmets are then shipped off to be inspected and cleaned before being placed back into circulation. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.8/10 - Popularity: 70% | Activity: 97% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Social Good](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialgood) > [Social Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialbusiness) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Helmet Vending Machines:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced helmet vending machines with built-in features such as adjustable sizing, built-in camera for recording accidents, and smart lock system for added security. - **Bicycle Sharing Safety:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a comprehensive safety solution for bicycle sharing programs, including integrated helmet vending machines, smart bike locks with GPS tracking, and user-friendly safety education platforms. - **Sustainable Helmet Dispensing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design eco-friendly helmet vending machines powered by renewable energy sources like solar panels, incorporate helmet materials made from recycled materials, and implement helmet recycling programs. ### Who This Affects Most - **Bicycle Sharing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate helmet vending machines into bicycle sharing systems to ensure rider safety and encourage higher adoption rates among potential users. - **Safety Equipment Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop technologically advanced helmets that are lightweight, comfortable, and incorporate IoT features to enhance user safety and convenience in various industries. - **Smart City Solutions:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create integrated systems that combine smart bike-sharing programs, helmet vending machines, and IoT-powered infrastructure to enhance safety and sustainability in urban environments. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Customized 3D-Printed Bike Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kav-bike-helmets.md) - [Inflatable Accordion-Style Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ventete-ah1.md) - [Self-Inflating Bicycle Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bumpair-20.md) - [Oceanic Recycled Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shellmet-helmet.md) - [Electric Bicycle Helmet Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ebike-helmet.md) - [Airbag-Integrated Bicycle Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airbag-bicycle-helmet.md) - [Crank-Powered Bike Light Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wnd-helmet.md) - [Connected Cyclist Safety Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unit-1-faro-smart-helmet.md) - [Connected Motorcycle Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shoei-opticson-smart-motorcycle-helmet.md)