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Wearable studio – Stephanie

Exoskeletons and Tool Belt

Have you ever wished that your heavy backpack will magically lighten with a snap of your fingers? Well, imagine how your pals in the military who have to lug around a heavy field pack. 

NSRDEC has been leading efforts towards the research of exoskeletons can reduce injuries, carrying loads and help troops move around the battlefield and cover terrains with greater ease. It’s sophisticated synthesis of technology such as artificial intelligence that is able to adjust the machinery to move seamlessly with the wearer which is a huge improvement from previous prototypes that actually resists the body’s natural movements. 

What are exoskeletons? Exoskeletons are essentially wearable robots that cover the legs and the arms. 

Although it’s currently still in development, the K-SRD uses DermoskeletonTM technology licensed from B-TEMIA, to counteract overstress on the lower back and legs when heavy loads are being carried. It supports and boosts leg capacity for physically demanding tasks that require lifting or dragging heavy loads, or walking with load on inclines or stairs. K-SRD effectively reduces fatigue and increases endurance.

In term of aesthetics,  it’s reminiscent of the 1959 book “Starship Troopers” by Robert Heinlein which is regarded as the first widely circulated work of fiction to feature military powered armour, and with new technologiesit’s a step closer to reality each day.

Nurse Tool Belt

Let’s dial it down a little and look at something that is less ‘techy’. To be honest I was quite horrified/bewildered at how little advancements or improvement there has been to the ‘tool belt’ for nurses. In fact, if you google ‘Nurse tool belt’ you will find pages after pages of shopping links for you to purchase them from, with little to no links to research or new developments with regards to new developments of the nurse tool belts. It seems like in terms of utility it is serving it’s purpose but it seems to be compromising in terms of aesthetics. Perhaps in more developed regions such as Singapore, they have moved towards ipads or tablets to record patient’s information. However, they will surely still need some basic tools with them when they do their rounds?

This semi circle tool belt is a seemingly popular design that can hold a considerable amount of things. 
This is another design that can hold very limited number of tools. 

Upon doing some quick research, there are a few things that nurses have to carry around at all times. 

  1. Stethoscope. One of the most common and essential medical items that are found in a nursing bag is the stethoscope. 
  2. Medical reference book / guide.
  3. OTC medicine. 
  4. Blood pressure monitor and thermometer. 
  5. Notebook or binder. …
  6. Smartphone or tablet
  7. Writing utensils
  8. Tourniquet
  9. Scissors and Micropore Medical Tape
  10. Hand sanitizer
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Wearable Research – Low Jia Yi

A Magician’s Outfit

DVD Case Cover of magician Tony Clark’s ‘Behind the Seams’
My sketch of a magician’s outfit with all its concealed pockets

Practice:

This type of outfit is used extensively by Magicians, but can also be used by anybody else.

Specific Use:

These suits and pant trousers differ from the usual ones because they have many concealed pockets, which is essential for magicians to store many of their magical tools (like several decks of poker cards). They can also play a huge role in a magician’s magic show routine, for example, when making something disappear (hiding it) and then having it appear again in one of his/her pockets.

Mobility:

This outfit with multiple pockets is highly mobile, as the movement of the wearer will not be restricted in any ways.

Utility vs Fashionability:

I would say that this multi-pocketed outfit is both functional and fashionable. It is functional because it aids the magician in his/her work in terms of keeping his/her hands free, storing the tools and allowing the magic routine to happen. At the same time, this outfit consists of a nicely tailored suit jacket and a pair of trousers, which contributes to the whole aesthetic and magical experience of magic, which is highly reliant on showmanship.

BBQ Apron

Grill Sergeant BBQ Apron by Mouth Inc, taken from Amazon
My sketch of the BBQ Apron

Practice:

This apron can be used by anybody, but is targeted to people who barbeques a lot.

Specific Use:

This apron contains many pockets that is designed to hold the many things that one will need or want while barbequing, such as salt and pepper, tongs, and sauces. Apart from the elastic holders that can hold up to a pack of beer, the apron also comes with an attached bottle opener.

Mobility:

At first look, this apron looks like it will not hinder the wearer’s mobility much. However, actual users of this apron have reviewed it and said otherwise (as can be seen in this video).

Basically, because the apron is designed to hold so many things, many things are put into the pockets, and the weight of the items can make the apron slip down. Together with the bulkiness of the items (especially the drinks at the top), the user can be inconvenienced and have his/her movement restricted while wearing this apron.

Utility vs Fashionability:

The apron is useful in terms of being able to hold many things that are needed when barbequing food, but the slight hindrance of mobility decreases its level of utility a little. In terms of being fashionable, I think it is definitely an interesting look that makes the wearer looks like he/she knows what he/she is doing in terms of barbequing, but not that fashionable that one will wear it out in public.

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Wearable Research – Brenda Tan

Roulette Shoe 

Practice it works in 

The roulette shoe was created in the late 1970s by a group of students at the University of California, who called themselves “The Eudaemons”, to help players win at roulette. To avoid potential problems with the casino authorities, they decided that the sole of the a shoe was the least conspicuous location for their creation. 

Its specific use

The roulette shoe is basically a computer within a shoe. The Eudaemons made use of two separate shoe computers – one worn by the observer and the other by his accomplice. The first, shown in the drawing above, used a MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor and was worn by an observer near the roulette wheel. The observer would clock the motion of the wheel and ball using a toe-operated switch.

A prediction of where the ball would land on the wheel would be generated by the observer’s shoe computer and immediately transmitted to an accomplice. The accomplice would then feel a unique pattern and frequency of buzzing solenoids in their shoe. This would tell which octant of the roulette wheel was most likely to catch the ball and they can place their bets according to this information.

Mobility 

Due to its small size and portability, the computer was very convenient and could be transferred from one shoe to another with ease.  

Utility vs Fashionability 

The roulette shoe’s casing was made of epoxy, a material that could keep out moisture and was strong enough to create a platform that could survive the pressure of being walked upon. In addition, a separate section called the “battery boat” was built to house the batteries and was designed to be easily disconnected so that fresh batteries could be installed quickly. While the shoe had its pros, it also led to some problems. After one of the computers malfunctioned, a member suffered from electronic shocks which resulted in burns. Since then, they ceased usage of the roulette shoe.

Since the computer was meant to be hidden in a shoe, very little detail was given to its aesthetic design. It was simply wires and electronics encased in transparent container so that its user had full visibility.

UA Gemini 3 Record-Equipped Smart Shoes 

Practice it works in

These Under Armour smart shoes was made for runners who want to track their running, walking or jogging data without having to wear an extra accessory like a smartwatch or fitness band.

Its specific use

Apart from recording time, distance and pace, these smart shoes can also measure muscular fatigue and lets the user know if he is ready for a run. The user has to jump 6 times, and the  sensors and microchip embedded inside the shoes will allow the prediction of fatigue over time based on the user’s jump score. Simply put, the user can get a better idea of whether he is in good enough shape for putting in a big run.

Furthermore, the sensor inside the shoe records the users’ fitness data uses bluetooth connectivity to sync the data with the UA MapMyRun app, allowing the user to track his progress over time.

Mobility

Since the technology is all encapsulated within the shoe itself, this reduces the hassle of wearing an extra fitness accessory. All the user has to do is put on the shoes, and he’s good to go! Since the shoes are lightweight as well, it’s highly mobile. 

Utility vs Fashionability

Apart from the smart technology, the shoes also have innovative UA SpeedForm® construction moulds to the foot for a precision fit. The engineered mesh used on the tongue and toe box also enhances fit and increases ventilation. Its internal heel counter also provides seamless, lightweight support and structure.

The shoes also come in 3 different designs, making it both highly functional and fashionable at the same time.

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Wearable Research – Ang Xin Yee

Chairless Chair

‘Chairless Chair’ by Sapetti

Practice it works in 
The ‘Chairless Chair’ is designed primarily for manufacturing environments where workers need to stand for prolonged periods of time. Since having a chair in manufacturing environments can pose as obstacles or safety hazards, the ‘Chairless Chair’ aims to remove such worries while providing comfort for its users.

Its specific use
It is designed as a “wearable skeleton”. The user can walk around freely and receive support when squatting, crouching or bending. This reduces the physical strain in laborious occupations, in turn reducing absences and early retirement. 

Mobility
Users can comfortably walk around and the wearable exoskeleton will provide support, instantly, should they need to go into an uncomfortable position. There is a torso harness as well as torso and thigh straps to ensure that the wearable chair fits snugly. Moreover, the seat does not disrupt the user’s movements when walking around. 

Utility vs Fashionability 
The ‘Chairless Chair’ is mainly made for the purpose of utility rather than fashionability since it looks rather tacky.

Tackle Tek Nomad Backpack

Tackle Tek Nomad – Lighted Backpack by Wild River Outdoor Gear

Practices it works in
This backpack is the all-in-one toolbox for fishermen to load their equipment.

Its specific use 
The Backpack has the following features:
– LED light
– Tray storage
– Sunglass holder
– Plier holder
– Retractable lanyard
– Front pocket
Each of the above feature has a unique purpose which allows for equipment to be properly stored and organised. Tools such as pliers, which may potentially damage other equipments, and sunglasses, which are fragile, are kept away in different compartments to protect other equipments or make it more convenient to reach to. 

Mobility
Since everything is incorporated in a bag, it is convenient to bring around and equipment is properly organised for convenient retrieval. 

Utility vs Fashionability
The Backpack is focuses more on utility rather than fashionability because of its simple design, colour and practical add-ons. It could look bulky and thus, too tacky to be fashionable.

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Wearable Research – Muhammad Hazzry

BCon


Practice it works in

BCon is a motion-tracking wearable tool for built for gamers that acts as a supplement to the usual tools of a gamer- mainly the controller or the keyboard + mouse. The user ties the Bcon around his foot, which then enables him access to shortcuts by just moving his foot. At the moment, Bcon is still on Kickstarter and is scheduled for shipment in December this year.

Its specific use

Basically, it is another controller controlled by movements of your foot. By moving your foot in one of four ways – pitch up (toes up), pitch down (heel up), roll left and roll right, you can activate a certain key or a shortcut in your game. Users can map ANY keyboard key to the BCon gestures. For example, if I’m a playing a First Person Shooter game, I can pitch my foot up to reload, pitch down to sprint, roll left to throw grenades and roll right to use a med-pack.

Users can map up to SIX key presses to each gesture, which means you can have access to 24 different key presses with just one of your foot. The BCon measures the degree of movement/ rotation to tell the intended keypresses apart, all of which is fully customisable by the user.

Though intended for gamers, the developers at Gameforge also states that the BCon can also be used for other software like the Adobe Creative Suite or even Microsoft Office. This gives the user a quicker access to the various tools available.

Mobility

The BCons looks no larger than a matchbox and is claimed to be able to wrap around most footwear (even steel-toe boots!). It is definitely portable, easily rechargeable through a USB cable, and operates via Bluetooth connection. The foam cushioning at the underside of the BCon’s provides added comfort for the user,.

Utility vs Fashionability

It is only a gamer’s dream to be better at a game, and there are already tools like a gaming keyboard and mouse to aid gamers; but why stop there? The company claims that the Bcon can “improve a gamer’s speed by 17%, their precision by 23% and even reduce errors by 15%”. Undeniably, the BCon can be very useful to not only gamers, but even creative individuals. It is also worth noting that the Bcon can be a tool used for disabled gamers who are unable to game with their hands.

Fashion-wise, it looks sleek and stylish enough to avoid sticking out like a sore thumb. Though it is slightly strange to see one wearing a cube-like device on their foot, I think fashion would not matter as much because the Bcon would only be used during gaming – usually done behind a desk.

https://bcon.zone/what-for/
https://www.wareable.com/wearable-tech/bcon-wearable-gaming-controller-8584

Soundbrenner Pulse

Practice it works on

The Soundbrenner Pulse is dubbed as the world’s first wearable for musicians. It looks like watch and it can be worn anywhere on the body – wrist, arm, leg, and even across the chest.

Its specific use

In its essence, it is a wearable metronome to help musicians keep to a certain rhythm. It gives out vibrations on the beat, ensuring that musicians feel the beat and focus their full auditory attention to their music. Users can adjust the tempo either by turning the dial of the device, via their smartphone through the companion app, and even registering their intended tempo by tapping the device. Users can also synchronise the Pulse with 4 other devices, which would help those in bands or orchestras to keep in tempo.

Mobility

The Pulse looks just like smartwatch and it can be used as long as you’re connected to a device that has the app installed. Lightweight and portable, this eliminates the hassle of bringing a physical metronome around.

Utility vs Fashionability

In my opinion, the Pulse scores high in both utility and fashionability. In my musical experience, I’ve always found it difficult (for everyone) to always play on tempo. It’s even harder to multitask listening to the tempo/ looking at the conductor and focus on playing your part. Hence, I can see how it can be useful for musicians. Besides, their long list of testimonials from renowned musical acts speaks for itself as well!

There is not much to dislike about the look of the device. It looks conventional in the sense that it looks like a smartwatch, it emits an LED light around the face of the watch (which is super cool), minimal-looking logo right in the middle, and it just looks all-around cool.

https://www.soundbrenner.com/
https://www.trustedreviews.com/opinion/wearables-for-musicians-2932694

By: Muhammad Hazzry Bin Shafaruan (A0158578J)

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Wearable Research – Teo Zi Lin

Tobii Pro Glasses 2

Product image of Tobii Pro Glasses 2
My sketch of the Tobii Pro Glasses 2

Practice it works in

The Tobii Pro Glasses 2 is designed mainly for researchers who conduct field studies in their research of human behaviour.

Its specific use

Tobii Pro Glasses 2 gives researchers deep and objective insights into human behaviour by showing exactly what a person is looking at in real time as they move freely in any real-world setting. Researchers can understand how people interact with their environment, what catches their attention, what drives their behaviour, and what influences their decision making. This wearable and mobile eye tracking system opens up entirely new opportunities for behavioural studies.

With a unique first-person perspective and true measurement of visual attention and cognitive engagement, Tobii Pro Glasses 2 can be also used as a tool for training, skills transfer, and performance enhancement. The real-time observation of participants’ gaze data provides quick and actionable insights. Whether the eye tracking study is conducted in a lab, shopping mall, manufacturing facility, home, or sports field, researchers can achieve accurate and reliable results in human behaviour research.

Mobility

The user-centric design and mobility of Tobii Pro Glasses 2 have resulted in an intuitive easy-to-use eye tracking system that allows users to focus on the data analysis and makes the data collection a simple quick exercise. Any user can get started with data collection easily without prior experience with the help of the system-guided procedures and a quick one-point calibration. In order to ensure maximum mobility during the study, the recording unit also allows for easy access to the SD card, sync port, and batteries.

Utility vs Fashionability

Tobii Pro Glasses 2 is indeed very useful for researchers as studies on human behaviour is no longer confined to just the labs. Nothing is more accurate than observing research subjects and their behaviours in their real, intimate environments. To add on, having a wearable eye tracking system opens up new areas of research that would not have been possible. Hence, I would say that the glasses has high utility. To add on, the glasses look futuristic and stylish, like a gear right out of a science fiction movie. It reminds me of Google glasses as well. I would say it is fashionable because I want to wear it. It is comforting that Tobii Pro Glasses 2 has achieved a great balance of utility and fashionability.

The HC1

Product image of the HC1
My sketch of the HC1

Practice it works in

The HC1 is not designed for a specific practice. It is designed for anyone who needs a mobile computer for the work environment.

Its specific use

The HC1 is a unique wearable device: a fully rugged mobile computer for the work environment. Through an adjustable optical micro-display, it provides a view equivalent to a 15-inch laptop screen. This allows users access to critical documents, videos and photos, with information displayed just below their line of sight. Its purpose is made for workers who need big-screen device capability to view highly complex graphical data or schematics in work environments where carrying a laptop or tablet is not feasible, safe or convenient.

Mobility

The HC1 has great mobility because it was designed to address the mobility issue of a computer. It is lightweight, and it has a strap that secures the device to a human head. Hence, anyone who has a head will be able to use the device anywhere and everywhere.

Utility vs Fashionability

The HC1 has good utility as it can help a practitioner carry out his or her work more efficiently with a mobile, wearable computer. For example, a construction worker can view the blueprint on this device while doing his work in the field. However, I would say that the HC1 is lacking in terms of fashionability because it does not look cool. It looks kind of weird to have a thick black “arm” protruding from the side of your face. However, in work environments, who cares about fashion when you can complete your work more efficiently?

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Wearable Research – Charmaine Goh

Wheelie Wrench Bike Tool

Practice It Works In

The Wheelie Wrench tool is created for recreational and competitive bikers. This bike tool, approximately the size of a matchbox, comes separately from the All TimeBelt. It is made to enable riders to fix their bikes at anywhere and anytime.

Specific Use

The Wheelie Wrench bike tool is also equipped with 17 essential tools in a design that is compact and easy to carry. Its features include:

  • 2mm thru 6mm hex bits (including 2.5mm)
  • T10 and T25 Torx bits
  • #2 Phillips screwdriver
  • Slotted screwdriver
  • Tire lever
  • 8mm box wrench
  • 10mm box wrench
  • 15mm open ended wrench
  • Spoke wrenches

The tools are useful for adjusting the tyre rubber around the rim of the wheel, tightening of screws of different parts of the bike such as the handbrakes and fixing of the bottle holder and more.

Mobility

Due to its small size, the Wheelie Wrench bike tool can be easily carried around. It fits perfectly fine in pockets and is extremely mobile and convenient. Fix Manufacturing also came out with a belt design that can be worn with this bike tool.

Utility vs Fashionability

This bike tool is extremely functional and is catered specially for bike riders with the specific essential tools to fix their bike. The company also designed tool sets that is catered for skaters and snowboarder, all of which differs in the attached tool set depending on what the various profession requires. Its matchstick box-like design made it look sleek and convenient. When paired with the All TimeBelt, the tool can instantly become a fashion statement.

According the Fix Manufacturing, Its utility qualities are also further enhanced with the characteristic of being weatherproof. All the tools have undergone the saltwater corrosion testing that simulates the harshest condition. Also, it is highly durable due to its heat-treated steel alloy material. Hence, this bike tool can be highly usable and fashionable at the same time.

Source: http://fixmfg.com/

GoX SmartRun Insole

Practice It Works In

The insole was actually a product that kick-started during a 5-year partnership with the US Navy with goal of optimising training. It can be used by athletes to keep track of their progress and to enhance the effectiveness of their training, especially if their profession requires leg movements.

Specific Use

It is the first insole that is able to measure:

  • Propulsive Power
  • Velocity
  • Metabolic Efficiency
  • Stride Symmetry
  • Peak forces from Heel to Toe

It is made up of a Bluetooth-enabled carbon fabric nanomaterial with conductive electrodes inside a protective insole. By measuring forces on the foot, users will be able to optimise fitness training, reduce the risk of injuries and provide more accurate results on the measurements stated above, which I would say is vital for most athletes and professions that requires the use of leg movements.

Mobility

It is highly mobile because athletes and users can track the data and records anytime and anywhere they go as the insole automatically sends data to a mobile app that GoX Studio had developed, during and after the exercise. It is also lightweight and can easily be switched when shoes are changed. With this there’s no need for athletes like runners to check their condition in a lab with laptop/computer and wires/patches attached. They can track their progress anytime they want with the app, even during training.

Utility vs Fashionability

It is highly usable due to its accuracy. It is confirmed by the U.S. Army that the SmartRun insole is 11.7 times more accurate than leading consumer fitness trackers for calories burned and its data actually nearly matches the result of the clinical standards for measuring metabolism, calories burned, and ground floor impact.

Fashion-wise, I would say it is not a big factor as it is hidden inside the shoes. But overall, it has a cool and professional look to it with the gold coloured cover and black outline. Most importantly, it is said to be highly comfortable and users will not be able to feel the GoX SmartRun when they walk or run.

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Wearable Research – Allison Kapps

FITT360

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/467094941/fitt360-the-first-360-neckband-wearable-camera

Practice it works in

In a world that already values any and all forms of content sharing, it’s no surprise that the tech and video industry is moving in the direction of VR and AR experiences that can more closely mimic real experiences. Wearable devices and concepts for VR are seemingly everywhere, but what I think will truly be revolutionary is finding a way for users to control their own production of VR content. That’s where this wearable 360° camera will come in; the FIT360 is a device that sits around the user’s neck and records the surrounding environment from their own perspective. What better way to share experience than to show everyone exactly what you see in 360?

Its specific use

The essential use of this product is to capture video in 360° through a hands-free device that sits around the user’s neck. Videos can be shared live or after being captured, and provide users with the ability to share content without being limited by the constraints of a standard camera.

Mobility

The device itself is designed to be unobtrusive, and it rests around the user’s neck similarly to the way large headphones would. It doesn’t look particularly comfortable and looks quite chunky, but reviews are still relatively positive. People indicate that the design gently hugs the neck in such a way that helps keep the device in place. Long hair has to be put up so as to not be in the way, but for the purpose it is intended for — recording an environment upon desire, it works well. 

https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/2/16/17009564/360-degree-camera-neckband-linkflow-fitt360-samsung-spinoff-kickstarter

Utility vs Fashionability

The wearable camera is hands free, so it’s more convenient to use than existing 360° camera solutions while being active or doing other things. It looks similar to other styles of wrap around earphones and headphones, so it doesn’t look completely out of the ordinary for users to wear. It isn’t a device that is envisioned to wear every day, rather it’s meant for recording specific experiences where users would otherwise bring standard cameras or existing 360 camera solutions (tourism, exploring, social events). Ultimately, the wearable device benefits users in regards to utility since it is a more convenient solution than other existing 360° cameras, and it serves users in regards to fashion because it doesn’t particularly stand out in regards to existing design styles.

Abacus Ring, 1600s

https://www.gizbot.com/wearable-technology/features/wearable-technology-eyeglasses-vr-headsets-smartwatches-smart-bands-news/articlecontent-pf69178-036950.html

Practice it works in

I was really interested to see what kind of creative wearable technologies had been created during a time when technology simply meant having tools. I discovered “The Abacus Ring”, which was created around 1600’s. Evidently, it is a small version of an abacus, a calculating tool. However, it is made very portable in that it is very small, and can be worn on a person’s finger. The Abacus Ring was apparently made in the Qing Dynasty, the last imperial dynasty of China.

Its specific use

The use of this wearable technology is to help people, presumably mathematicians, make calculations or count on the go. The small spheres are miniature versions of the larger sized abacus, and can be shifted using a metal toothpick or similar object.

Mobility

Normal sized abacuses are significantly larger and more heavy than this ring, which makes them difficult to carry or use on the go. This ring brings together all the value of an abacus, but allows users to wear what they need on their finger to be used anywhere they need. The elements are significantly smaller and evidently much lighter, so this wearable is extremely mobile as it can be held seemingly without issue on someone’s finger.

Utility vs Fashionability

In regards to utility, this wearable must be considered within the context of its time. Nowadays, we have automatic calculators and a written numeral system that renders the need for an abacus entirely useless. However, in the 1600s an abacus was likely very convenient to have for people dealing with numbers on a daily basis. This ring would have possibly provided such people with increased utility in that it would have been less difficult to carry around. However, it could have also created more problems in that it was so small that in a stationary environment it would have been more tedious to try and control the minuscule metal pieces. In regards to fashionability, the ring is designed much like other ring styles are and would have fit in at the time as a metal accessory.

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Wearable Research – Jo-Ann Ng

S p e c d r u m s :
music at your fingertips

App-connected rings that turn color into sound, making the world your sound machine. Tap anywhere to create musical beats and sounds.
Specdrum’s promotional image on Kickstarter.com
Personal drawing of Specdrums

These durable plastic rings work with an application to turn any surface into a soundboard on-the-go. The sensor at the bottom of the rings detect the color of the surface it has been tapped on and allows you to assign a sound (on the application) to it. The application can register up to 10 rings at a time (full two hands! you can play the piano!).

The rings can also be attached to things other than your fingers.
For example, toes or drum sticks (e.g. to create a makeshift drumset) can work as well.

Practice it works in:

It would suit music producers on the go as a portable MIDI device; but it can also be used for many situations like music education – especially suitable for beginners and children.
The company also has an open source code for the application online so it can be modified into many things as well. One suggestion from the company that I thought was extremely useful was in guiding colorblind individuals.

Mobility:

Extremely mobile since they are small, portable, lightweight and robust. They also come with a micro-USB charging port, which is a wire that is very commonly used by other devices like Android phones.

Utility Vs Fashionability:

The company has kept the design very simplistic so that nothing gets in the way when in use. The default color for sale stated by the company is black, however they have used many different colors in their demos and are apparently intending to release those for sale as well eventually. I also liked that the edges of the ring are curved, making it look more ‘friendly’. 

Sensoria Fitness Socks and Anklet

Promotional Picture found on their website
Sensoria Fitness Socks + Anklet drawing

Smart Socks designed specially for Runners

These smart socks are fitted with textile sensors that record data runners might want to pay attention to: such as a step counter, speed, calories burnt and speed. Interestingly, it also is able to identify patterns in movement that might cause problems like sport-related injury due to incorrect running form. 

Practice it works in:

These socks are catered to the serious runner (professionals) but I can see it being used in situations such as physiotherapy since it helps keep a keen eye on the specific muscle movements and other factors that might influence the therapy. 

Mobility:

Due to the nature of the textile sensors that they use for these fitness socks, the sock looks and feels almost exactly like a normal sock. Hence, they are indeed very form fitting and mobile.
Perhaps the only thing that might get in the way would be the anklet as it is slightly bulging and is positioned at the ankle – where there would be a bend.

Utility Vs Fashionability:

As mentioned in the previous point, these socks do not have any unnecessarily bulky parts and are designed in a chic grey ribbed fabric (typical of sports socks). The anklet is also very minimalistic in pure white. Sensoria even includes a possibility of covering the anklet by folding the sock over it – further increasing the appearance of the smart sock. This is all done while not compromising the effectiveness of the product itself. They transfer the ‘bulky’ things like screen displays, etc, by bluetooth transferring it to a mobile application that will display all the data from your smart phone. 

Ng Yixian Jo-Ann (A0142014B)

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Wearable Research – Johan Ng

Hairdresser Tool Belt

Practice it works in

As the name suggest, the purpose of the belt is to keep all the tools the hairdresser needs in place and use them as and when it is needed.

Its specific use

The belt allows the hairdresser to store all sorts of hairstyling tools which normally compromises of various types of scissors and combs. This helps the hairdresser save time in finding the necessary tools needed during a haircut and smoothen the process.

Mobility

As it is strapped usually by the side of the waist, it does not really obstruct movement in any form or way. However, if there is a huge number of hairdressing tools strapped to the side, it may obstruct some movement.

Utility VS Fashionability

It is a very convenient tool as the hairdressers can change hairdressing tools without moving around to get another. Also these belts generally do not have a fixed number of pockets and can be customizable to fit the hairdresser needs. In terms of design, it does not stand out much but the belt allows people to identify the user as a hairdresser.    

June

Practice it works in

The device was suggested for gardeners however it could be used by anyone who does not want to get sunburnt.

Its specific use

The device tracks the user’s exposure to the sun and alerts the user when they have exceeded the recommended amount of sun exposure.

Mobility

It is simply a wrist bracelet with a device and does not obstruct any form of movement.

Utility VS Fashionability

The aesthetics of June resembles any ordinary hand accessory. Perhaps the purpose of the device is to track sun exposure and at the same time look fashionable. The device does not stand out as a tracking device and could be used just simply for fashion.   

Johan Ng (A0139660B)