Kettley, Sarah and Smyth, Michael (2003) The case for building familiarity into wearables design. In: Seventh IEEE International Symposium on Wearable Computers (ISWC'03), October 21-October 23 2003, White Plains, New York, USA .

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Abstract/Description

This paper examines the issues connected with the development of wearable devices in terms of affective design, that is, as pleasurable products. Wearables, particularly in the context of everyday use, have the ability to become good examples of what Steve Mann termed ‘existential computers’. This phenomenological state will only come about, however, if the product/user fit is good for all aspects of the design. Here we examine the design aspect of familiarity and how choice of materials can affect the approachability of the wearable, and the subsequent relationship between it and the wearer. Finally a combined design through making and participative methodology is suggested for taking the work further.

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