Wearable computing: a first step toward personal imaging

Miniaturization of components has enabled systems that are wearable and nearly invisible, so that individuals can move about and interact freely, supported by their personal information domain. To explore such new concepts in imaging and lighting, I designed and built the wearable personal imaging system. My invention differed from present-day laptops and personal digital assistants in that I could keep an eye on the screen while walking around and doing other things. Just as computers have come to serve as organizational and personal information repositories, computer clothing, when worn regularly, could become a visual memory prosthetic and perception enhancer.