mbracelet

The mbracelet was developed to investigate the introduction of wearable computing applications in financial transactions, and in particular for use with ATM machines.

 

The mbracelet is able to store, share and collect information. At the same time it can be worn as a fashion accessory. It has 3 slots that can receive interchangeable iButtons (developed by Dallas Semiconductors). This enables users to customize the information they want to "carry" with them at any given time. A 2-wire interface is sufficient for the iButtons to make contact with a host unit, thus allowing for an easily implemented infrastructure.

 

The mbracelet's mechanism was built onto a flexible circuit in order to make the mbracelet pliable. The circuit was then molded into place in polyurethane rubber in eight bright colors. The choice of material ensures that the mbracelet withstands wear and tear, is water-proof and is aesthetically pleasing.

 

The mbracelet has a grid of 12 tri-color LEDs. When the mbracelet is connected to a host unit the grid displays a host-specific RGB animation so the user knows that contact has been successfully made. The LED display also fulfills a more personal purpose: users can activate a customized color animation that changes depending on hand motion.

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The mbracelet's "plug" interface allows users to transfer messages to each other by performing a cross handshake, thus introducing elements of physical contact. When the two "plugs" mate, the mbracelets poll each other and messages are transferred automatically. The gesture is intimate and dynamic; it fuses the realm of the digital with that of the physical.

 

Conductive hook-and-loop is fitted on the two ends of the mbracelet so when clasped the circuit is complete and the mbracelet's mechanism is switched on. In this way the mbracelet can be seen as a truly wearable item, maintaining the characteristics of non-digital accessories and clothes.

 

 

transparent interface : low-res display/hi-res commmunication grid : gestures : wearability

e Mbrace the future

interface-me: Pursuing Sociability and Serendibity
(published at the Personal and Ubiquitous Computing Journal)

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