HeartBit

HeartBit wearable device is a glove that lights-up a set of LED lights according to its wearer's pulse. The intent of this device is to remind people to pay attention to their own heart rhythm and, ultimately, to help them visualizing how this rhythm reacts to everyday situations.

I wore this glove for a few days and, during this experiment, I questioned if I was becoming more aware of my physical and mental responses—if this device could make me more aware of how my heart responds to simple everyday actions such as running to catch the bus or relaxing at home. With this HeartBit wearable device, I could visualize my physical response, and be mentally triggered to either keep or change the rhythm that I conducted my life under a given circumstance. 

After a few hours of use, I noticed that the enhanced self-awareness that I had initially developed seemed to be temporary. The flashing lights were now integrated into my routine. The consequences that the HeartBit device could bring if I wore it for a longer time are unknown to me. What changes would I consciously or sub-consciously make to accommodate it in my life? What would its impact be on my physical health and behaviour in the long term?

Research through Design
Health design
Everyday life experiences

/ Design concept
/ Interactive prototype

Project created as part of my thesis for the Master of Design program at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, 2017

This project was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, under the Canada Graduate Scholarships-Master’s Program (CGS-M), 2016.