Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought us face to face with situations we never imagined we would experience. One of the most important measures we are called upon to follow is social distancing contact. This measure has led to the creation of tracing apps but has also inspired the creation of more imaginative things . Take for example SimpliSafe's Social Distancing Sweater , a special sweater that activates a siren when someone approaches you at a distance of less than 2 meters.
“Remind your family that you’re happy to see them, but even happier when you’re 6 feet apart,” says the promotional video for SimpliSafe’s sweater. The video shows a masked man wearing the blue sweater, which is decorated with snowflakes and padlocks. When others approach, the sweater’s LED lights flash and the siren starts to sound.
SimpliSafe says its social distancing sweater aims to bring some fun to people during this difficult time and make the holidays, which are very different this year, a little more enjoyable and funny.
“"We use four low-resolution thermal cameras to monitor your perimeter," SimpliSafe explains. "The simple algorithm calculates the baseline background temperature and looks for a warm body in the area."“.
SimpliSafe has released a limited number of the social distancing sweaters without the built-in technology, but has shared detailed instructions for those who want to make this special sweater. The required equipment includes: a microcontroller, a small speaker, a MicroSD card, LED lights, a cable and an inline USB power switch. Also, experience with 3D, soldering and programming helps a lot.
SimpliSafe has included a series of legal disclaimers for the social distancing sweater. The company emphasizes that apparently even the sweater should not be considered sufficient for protection against COVID-19.
“The social distancing sweater is a fun piece for the holidays. It should not be considered a serious device prevention COVID-19. Follow the guidance of health organizations, as well as state and local laws and orders.”
The social distancing sweater isn't the first garment to detect people in close proximity. In 2018, advertising agency Ogilvy introduced the Dress For Respect, in response to the movement #MeToo. The dress had sensors that could detect when someone was approaching or trying to touch a woman.
Source: CNET
