Abstract: A helmet is provided that comprises a contoured external surface; a controller positioned on the contoured external surface; one or more channels embedded within the contoured external surface and defining two or more elongate pathways travelling over at least a portion of the contoured external surface; at least one electroluminescent (EL) wire located within and extending along at least a portion of the one or more channels, the EL wire being further selectively electrically connected to the controller; and a plurality of pairs of retaining elements periodically positioned adjacent the one or more channels. Each retaining element within each pair is located on an opposing side of the one or more channels, and an opening defined between a portion of each of the plurality of pairs of retaining elements has a dimension less than a diameter of the EL wire. Associated method and computer program product are also provided.

Abstract: A helmet is provided that comprises a contoured external surface; a controller positioned on the contoured external surface; one or more channels embedded within the contoured external surface and defining two or more elongate pathways travelling over at least a portion of the contoured external surface; at least one electroluminescent (EL) wire located within and extending along at least a portion of the one or more channels, the EL wire being further selectively electrically connected to the controller; and a plurality of pairs of retaining elements periodically positioned adjacent the one or more channels. Each retaining element within each pair is located on an opposing side of the one or more channels, and an opening defined between a portion of each of the plurality of pairs of retaining elements has a dimension less than a diameter of the EL wire. Associated method and computer program product are also provided.