Breathe more consciously through vibrotactile feedback
2019
Mysa was developed with Holst Centre and launched in 2019 at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Breathing exercises are a very effective way to reduce stress in the body and can therefore offer a solution to one of the most common health risks in our society today. However, it can be challenging for individuals to make such exercises part of their daily routine. The “MYSA” shirt is designed in response to the disturbing increase of work-related stress. This smart shirt creates a moment of relaxation by guiding the wearer through breathing exercises using vibrotactile feedback.
Holistic designapproach
The shirt is designed for wearing comfort by creating a “second skin” using a Lyocell fabric that feels silky soft and drapes beautifully. The sleeveless design, in composed color, offers versatility in wearing as it can be worn on its own or layered with other garments. Six vibration motors are positioned along the spine and connected to printed conductive tracks that are unobtrusively bonded to the fabric. The back panel of the garment consists of a second layer that can be tied around the body to increase contact between vibration motors and the body, enhancing the tactile sensation. Breathing exercises are translated into haptic patterns, delivered by the motors.
Sensing and actuatingfeedback loop
Breathing rate and depth is continuously monitored by measuring bio impedance with intimate skin-contact electrodes. The bio sensors detect irregular or high breathing rates, triggering haptic feedback given by the shirt. By creating a feedback loop between sensor input and haptic output, the selected breathing exercises are adjusted according to the actual breathing rate of the wearer to achieve a more personalized and comfortable interaction.
At Pauline van Dongen we design and develop smart textiles and clothing in a holistic way. We believe in sharing our experiences and knowledge with others to jointly change the current fashion system that relies on unethical and unsustainable practices and causes devaluation of clothing.