ling QL explores wearable technology with reality mediators

ling QL explores wearable technology with reality mediators
all images courtesy of ling QL

focusing on the technological and ethical implications of wearable technology, ‘mediated reality’ by london-based designer ling QL explores the impact of body-embedded devices on their users. incorporating 3D printing and body sensing components, the project questions the artificial modification of human perception when it is deliberately enhanced or altered. the futuristic design consists of a series of wearable objects that are worn on the user for an extended period of time. recorded information helps to gain insight into one’s interaction and navigation of their surrounding environment. devised as a critique against commercially adorned technology, the work explores the limits of human acceptance towards this new form of skin extension.

GPS sensor: a way of reading the body’s feedback locating its user in space

muscle activity sensors: body feedback through muscle tension level

muscle stimulation arm band: sends electrical stimulation to the user as form of information

brainwave sensor: one way to access the wearer’s body feedback

sound actuator: sends beep sound stimulation to the user as form of information

heat actuator: increases the body temperature as information is fed to the senses

the design, branding and packaging of the devices are intentionally made to resemble that of consumer based products

a conceptual instruction manual to help the user understand the effect each device

graphical illustration for users to imagine how to wear each device

graphical illustration of data collected by the author after wearing each device for an extended period of time

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.