As Google Glass moves deeper into testing and development – and, for well and ill, into the public consciousness – several Cornell University researchers whose expertise ranges from mobile communication technology to fashion design are available to offer insights into the next great tech boom (or bust) and its impact on us all.
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The evolution of wearable computing
Geri Gay is a professor of communication and of computer and information science, whose research focuses on social and technical issues in the design of interactive communication technologies – including National Institutes of Health-funded research into the use of mobile devices. She says:
“The use of wearable computers and devices for augmenting our senses is becoming more widespread. Google Glass is another step in the evolution of wearable computing. We can expect to see the proliferation of personal devices being used to document and monitor our daily lives and overlay information on the world around us. “The potential, and the risks, are enormous.”
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Limitless possibilities when linked to ‘smart’ apparel
Juan Hinestroza, an associate professor of fiber science, directs the Textiles Nanotechnology Laboratory at Cornell. His research on understanding fundamental phenomena at the nanoscale that are relevant to fiber and polymer science has led to breakthrough “multifunctional fibers” that can hold or change color, filter toxic gasses, and feed data and energy to electronic devices. He says:
“I think the potential of Google Glass to interact and be part of apparel appears limitless.
“From military applications in which the image captured by the glasses is instantaneously printed on the uniforms for seamless camouflage effects, to civilian aspects such as getting information about the weather and using that info to change the spacing between fibers – hence creating a microclimate for the user by such things as adjusting the surface of the fiber to repel rain droplets or opening vents in case of heat waves.
“I think this technology can be part of a daily and interactive second-skin.”
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The essential ‘geek chic’ accessory
Tasha Lewis is an assistant professor of Apparel Design whose research focuses on apparel technology acceptance. Her research also looks at the disruptive impact of technology in the apparel industry, and how companies must respond quickly to changing consumer tastes and demands. She says:
“Over the last decade, fashion has increasingly served as a canvas for development of personal, mobile technologies – as the ‘new’ accessories for the digital age. I think it is not surprising that Google Glass actually made its debut in 2012 during New York Fashion Week, as part of designer Diana von Furstenberg’s show.
“Technology adoption, much like fashion, also follows an innovation curve that relies on a small group of tastemakers for very early adoption and then diffuses to the larger population. Google Glass’ current launch efforts also coincide with a growing trend in ‘geek chic’ fashions that imply stereotypical nerdiness is appealing and glasses represent the ultimate ‘geek’ accessory.
“Personal technologies have reached a scale and weight that make them more acceptable as wearable items in the ‘body area network’ and geek chic may become a new category of fashion rather than a trend as we seek ways to outfit ourselves with the technologies we interact with on a daily basis.” . . . . .
Serious promise for people in need of help
David Feathers, assistant professor of design and environmental analysis, studies ergonomics and inclusive design, focusing on accessible products and spaces for a variety of users. He talks about how Google Glass might be used as an inclusive technology that assists persons with cognitive or other impairments navigate their environment. He says: “There are some very interesting inclusive design opportunities for this technology. Research is needed to know how well Google Glass offer recognition and integration of what ergonomists call, ‘knowledge in the world,’ which imbeds or maps information to the external environment, versus ‘knowledge in the head.’ “Google Glass could be especially important for people who require timely/immediate knowledge of the environment – say those needing to make quick decisions on where to find a connecting flight in an unfamiliar airport, how to navigate mass transit in a new city, or responding to an emergency situation. Beyond that, it is important to research if there can be benefits for various populations such as persons with cognitive issues, sensory issues, those that are prone to anxiety in new situations, or have issues with memory.”
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