The object
Michael Bottlang co-developed WaveCel, a collapsible cellular liner built into bicycle and other helmets to manage rotational and linear impacts. The manufactured insert made a new three-stage structural approach available in mass-market helmets, seeking to reduce concussion risk without abandoning conventional helmet form factors.
What Michael did
Co-founded WaveCel and developed its collapsible cellular helmet liner to manage rotational and linear head impacts.
Why it matters
The NIH reports that WaveCel helmet technology reduced concussion risk by 98 percent compared with a standard foam helmet and reached commercialization through Trek.
Living-status check
The NIH's July 2024 success story names Bottlang as WaveCel co-founder and programme contact, positive evidence he was alive and active in 2024.