Abstract |
This chapter analyses approaches towards real wearable computers, hence systems that are not just mobile carry-on devices, but actually integrate sensing, computing, and actuation into daily life as garments and accessories. Designing real wearable computers means addressing hard technical challenges, including elaborate miniaturisation and robustness considerations. Example systems from research literature are reviewed and discussed, including garment-based wearable computers, such as smart shirts and shoes, and accessory-based wearable computers, such as in belts, rings and other objects. Best practices and lessons learnt are discussed with a particular view on necessary future investigations regarding integration, system design, and continuous sensor data processing. |