Summary of Arduino based wearable pet
Ref is a wrist-worn wearable pet designed by Jens Dyvik to help users monitor their emotional state. By sensing the user's heartbeat, Ref mirrors excitement or stress through non-verbal movements like raising its head or curling its tail, aiming to help users regain emotional control. Currently, it remains a proof of concept controlled by servomotors and an Arduino, as it is not yet production-ready due to its size and complexity.
Parts used in the Ref Project:
- Six servomotors
- Arduino controller
- Heartbeat sensor
Ref is a wearable pet made by Jens Dyvik for his graduation from the Design Academy Eindhoven. Ref is worn on the wrist and helps you become aware of your emotional state by sensing your heartbeat and mirroring your state of excitement through its non-verbal communication.
For example, when you are stressed, Ref will raise its head and tail. Then as soon as you relax Ref will curl up its tail and lower its head again. The idea is that by literally objectifying your emotions Ref coaches you regain control instead of being ruled by your emotions.
If you are excited and ready to get a Ref of your own I have to disappoint. Although the project is a great proof of concept Ref is currently not yet very production ready as it’s controlled by six servomotors and an Arduino in a box making it somewhat complicated to actually carry it around. But I for one cant wait for the day to see a design like this miniaturised and combined with a powerful battery.
For more detail: Arduino based wearable pet
- What is the primary function of Ref?
It helps users become aware of their emotional state by sensing heartbeats and mirroring excitement. - How does Ref indicate that a user is stressed?
Ref raises its head and tail when the user is stressed. - Can I currently purchase a Ref device?
No, the project is not production ready yet. - What components make up the current prototype?
The prototype is controlled by six servomotors and an Arduino inside a box. - Why is Ref difficult to carry around right now?
It is complicated to carry because it requires a box containing motors and a controller. - Who created the Ref project?
Jens Dyvik created it for his graduation from the Design Academy Eindhoven.
