Awareneck

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  Taking measurements for optimal comfort.

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  A 1:1 size paper prototype.

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  Wearing the paper prototype.

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  Wearing the final prototype.

Inspiration

The industry of existing wearables produces a degree of self-centeredness towards the user. It encourages people to become more absorbed in their devices and electronic screen-filled lives, which now makes it difficult for many to connect with others and the environment. An example of this is how many people feel more comfortable texting someone than talking to them in person. Humans need a way to reconnect with one another and the environment.

What it does

The Awareneck is a new type of wearable that aims to resolve the problem above. It strives to connect humans to the world around them by adding an array of continuous sensors that test for air particulates, the loudness and safety of sound around the user, and notifying the user if someone is close behind them. By providing a user with more awareness of their surroundings, users can stay safe, even when on mobile devices.

How I built it

We used ergonomic data to choose an appropriate frame size, performed paper prototyping, and moved on to creating a cork-board based prototype for the structural integrity of mounting an Arduino and other electronic components. We added wooden ribs to demonstrate the appropriate sizing for a cushioned final product.

Challenges I ran into

One challenge was finding materials small enough to create a device that is soft yet sturdy. In addition, due to the limitations of sensors and the Arduino, we could not add all the sensors that the final product will have.

Accomplishments that I'm proud of

The final prototype is functioning with the sensors that it has within it and effectively demonstrates the envelope and relative comfort of a device like this.

What I learned

We learned more about how to use Arduino, how to breadboard, how to laser cut, and how to work with fabric.

What's next for Awareneck

Fully incorporating all the sensors that would make this product even more useful than it already is. We would also use electronics that are on a smaller scale to offer a more comfortable experience.

Built With

• arduino