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Soft, weather-sensitive helmets could become the latest accessory for
cyclists, construction workers and people doing dangerous sports. Instead of the
usual hard shell with rigid foam lining, the new hats consist of a shaped fabric
bag filled with liquid. Rubbery plastic beads suspended in the liquid help
soften any blows. According to inventor Bill Courtney of Altrincham, Cheshire,
the liquid could be chosen to cool the wearer or to keep them warm, depending
upon the weather. For instance, choosing a waxy liquid would let the liquid
absorb heat on a sunny day, keeping the heat from your head. The National
Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts (NESTA) is funding the
research.