Wearable Technology Detects Abuse

Nov. 2, 2007 -- Computers are becoming more wearable. We carry them around in specially sized pockets, stay attached to them via wired or wireless headsets. We even monitor our body with watches or t-shirts designed to measure heart rate, temperature, and perspiration level.

It's inevitable that as computers become more ubiquitous on the body, they will be enlisted to address social issues, among them abuse.

So says Adam Whiton, a technologist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who, along with apparel designer Yolita Nugent, created a wearable clothing system designed to detect harsh pushes, grabs, slaps and hits. The system could help victims with the process of self-realization by accumulating a history of abuse or it could be coupled with a computer that that helps the victim explore therapeutic options.

"Abuse pretty much exists because it remains isolated," said Whiton. "How do you get people talking about it?"

Each year, about 8.5 million incidents of domestic violence are reported, according to the Center for Disease Control. "The only real evidence used now in domestic abuse is documenting bruises and eye witness testimony," said Whiton.

At the same time, electronics are merging with clothing. For example, Philips has a wearable digital camera and several jacket manufacturers have integrated electronics to control iPods.

Whiton and Nugent wanted to explore whether such wearable computers could eventually be tasked with other functions, like detecting abuse.

Their prototype system is a hoodie that has large fabric-based pressure sensors sewn into the liner. The sensors -- which are divided into eight body zones, including upper chest, stomach, forearms, etc. -- categorize and measure the intensity and patterns of forces exerted on the wearer’s body.