Assessing the Wearability of Wearable Computers

Evaluation of a wearable computer system for telemonitoring in a critical environment

“…Knight and colleagues introduced a methodology for determining the wearability of wearable computers [7]. They used measures for the energy cost, biomechanical considerations and comfort.…”

“…The questionnaire consisted of three components. The first aimed at examining the energy cost, comfort level and visual fatigue; the second part was based on the REBA test.. A measure of the wearability of the system was then calculated using the methodology described by Knight et al [7]. …”

A holistic approach to assess the feasability of telehealth for Parkinson's disease management

“…These definitions give a philosophical notion to the concept of having an intimate interaction with the wearable computer, but they do not necessarily highlight the physicality of wearing a computer. In differentiating wearable technology from portable technology, three criteria have been proposed by Knight et al [554]:…”

“…Even mobile phones, 'worn' in a holster attached to a belt, are often detached and held in the hand when dialling or texting, and as such are merely being carried until they are used [554]. For wearable computer systems, the term "wearability" has been defined as the use of the human body as a support system for some product [555].…”

“…If the wearer is uncomfortable or placed under too much stress then the usability of the system will be reduced. Wearability evaluations can highlight areas for concern and indicate needs for improvement in product design [554]. They may also help generate guidelines for use.…”