WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY IN BUSINESS STIV 3063 (A) Mobile Multimedia Technology & Ubiquitous Computing Individual Assignment Prepared for: Madam Aeni Zuhana binti Saidin Prepared by: Kwan Tung Ching (278980) WHAT ARE THEY? HOW DO THEY WORK? WHO'S USING THEM? ARE THEY SAFE
WHAT IS WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY? AND WHAT BUSINESS DOES IT HAVE? It is no secret that all of the computers of our modern world are becoming smaller and more powerful than ever. Our smart phones are getting thinner and yet smarter as well. Every electronic appliance that we have seems to have a computer in it nowadays, even our night lights by our bedsides knows when to turn themselves on and off! All of these technologies have coalesced in the domestic into a concept called a “smart home”, a house where almost all of its furniture electronic appliances work autonomously and adapts to changes in the environment. These innovations have pushed the whole field of electronic engineering into its next logical step. What if you can wear them instead? Now the idea of wearing technology is certainly not new. People have thought about sticking their shiny new gizmo onto their faces and bodies since time immemorial. A notable example is the Sony TR-55, a handheld radio from the 1950s’ that would go on to inspire future devices with its form factor. Devices like the Ipod Mini and the Gameboy. If you want to go even wilder, there were already attempts of a virtual reality headset from all back in 1960 with Telesphere Mask. But of course modern wearable technology is nothing like sticking a giant piece of metal on your head. No. They in fact look like a normal watch but instead of a normal watch face, it’s a small OLED or LCD touch screen with a processor and circuit board right under it. It looks like a small piece of metal on your skin but its actually a pacemaker that is keeping your heart pumping correctly. They look like some funky looking glasses but they are smart glasses that can play music, take pictures and video, connect you to your digital assistant, and all the while displaying a HUD overlay like you are playing video game. This seemingly seamless integration of technology into everyday life has of course attracted the attention the business community. The ability to track a person’s physical activity and condition while allowing the wearer easy access to critical information inevitably caught the attention of the managers and executives of the business world. Soon wearable technology was being adopted by major businesses all around the world especially those involved in logistics and manual labour and the world was never the same again.
THE TECH BEHIND THE (WEARABLE) TECH: HOW DOES IT ALL WORK? Now its time to get into the nitty gritty of wearable tech. Wearable Tech really only reached its current adoption rate due to recent advancements in other fields. Its only thanks to these advancements that made it viable for widespread adoption. 1. Form Factor For it to be wearable, it needs to be small, lightweight, and comfortable. Hard to do decades ago when computers were huge, bulky, and slow. But the size of the CPU and other computer components have shrunk exponentially since then while its computing power continued to rise, allowing us to build smaller computers. Small enough to wear. This is all thanks to the shrinkage of transistors sizes, the smallest of which are only about 7 nm. The smaller sized transistors and processors have also reduced its power consumption, thereby increasing its battery life and/or reducing the required battery size. The smaller form factor has allowed manufacturers to cram other modules with various functions into the device without sacrificing processing power 2. Sensors and Biometrics A big part of wearable technology are the sensors and biometrics that come with it. Accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS allow the device to accurately capture the physical position and orientation of the wearer while the biometric modules allow the devices to track the wearer’s heart rate, breathing rate and pattern, body temperature, and more.
3. Connectivity and Wireless Communication But all this data is useless if its not analyzed and transformed into useful information. Sure the smart watch can tell you that your heart is beating too fast and you should take it easy. But if you want it to tell you if this meant anything more than that, then the watch will have to send this to your doctor or some other computer to make the predictions. Which it can by connecting to the local WiFi network and through it, bring you any news and information in real time. They can even communicate with nearby devices by using Bluetooth. 4 Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) VR and AR don’t just belong in games and entertainment. The ability to overlay information using AR over real-life objects and locations in realtime allowed users a greater understanding over they are seeing and physical space they are standing in. While VR provides immersive simulations of real physical spaces to users without needing them to be physically there.
WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY IN LOGISTICS The logistics industry is one place where wearable tech is revolutionizing. The sheer volume of products being delivered the world of today is at an astronomical scale. No analog method can ever hope to cope with the scale of modern logistics. Even relying on stationary computers and devices will spell doom for any warehouse or logistics center. But in a modern logistics center, workers are now equipped with not only lightweight tablets, but also smart glasses equipped with heads-up displays enable workers to receive real-time instructions, pick lists, and navigation guidance, improving picking accuracy and reducing errors. Wearable scanners and RFID tags allow for quick and seamless inventory tracking, minimizing manual data entry and inventory discrepancies. These wearables not only streamline warehouse operations but also reduce training time and enhance worker productivity.
BEECHTOWN CENTER GETS FACELIFT All of this also meant that real-time tracking is possible now. Allowing managers to monitor not just workers’ condition and performance, but also inanimate supply itself. GPS-enabled wearables, such as smartwatches and trackers, allow companies to monitor the location of assets, vehicles, and shipments in real-time. Access to such vital information allows optimization in route planning, delivery schedules, and resource allocation, resulting in reduced transit times, improved customer satisfaction, and cost savings. The most important aspect that this tech facilitates is of course, communication. Making two-way communication as easy and flexible as possible is integral for maximizing productivity and flexibility. Easier to do now that employees are no longer held down stationary computer workstations and scanners. Smartwatches or earpieces equipped with voice command features enable instant communication between workers, supervisors, and dispatchers, eliminating the need for handheld devices or constant radio communication.
WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY HEAVY INDUSTRY & MANUFACTURING Even in heavy industry and manufacturing, wearable technology is making a splash. This can be seen most evidently with workers working in demanding and high-risk environments. From rugged smartwatches to sensor-equipped gear, wearables are empowering workers and companies with advanced capabilities that ensure a higher level of worker safety without sacrificing efficiency and productivity. A god send for the heavy industry sectors. One way wearable technology has been implemented are augmented reality (AR) helmets. These AR devices are able to provide real time analysis and information of the workers’ workspace without them needing to physically approach their workspace. This allows the AR devices to warn the workers of any dangers or abnormalities before accidents have a chance to take place. The AR devices also seamlessly deliver live information feed, work updates, health and safety notifications without the workers needing fumble with another device while working. Meanwhile virtual reality (VR) helmets serve as excellent training tools for dangerous work environments where the stakes are high and trainees cannot be afforded to make mistakes. VR is able to immerse trainees in a virtual recreation of their workplace and allow them learn without pressure and reallife consequences.
There are also smart helmets that have various sensors built into them. These helmets tracks the location of employees and monitors their work environment, pulse, and body temperature. This allows them to warn employees ahead of time of any health issues as well warn machine and vehicle operators of any potential incoming hazards. The helmets also allow for real-time data collection and analysis that can provide valuable insights for optimizing heavy industry and manufacturing processes. The integrated sensors are able to not only measure the wearer’s performance, but also the condition of nearby machinery. This data can be analyzed to identify potential inefficiencies, optimize maintenance schedules, and improve overall equipment performance. A much more rare form of wearable technology but still worth mentioning is the exosuit. Exosuits may seem like something straight out of sci-fi but they are very real instances of wearable technology. They have over the years become much more lightweight and inconspicuous, now able to even be worn under clothing. The exosuit strengthens workers’ spines and back muscles and prevent back injuries as they lift heavy objects in the workplace.
THE COMPANIES USING WEARABLE TECHNOLOGIES AND THE ONES BEHIND THEM. Abseilon When it comes to work at great heights, Abseilon is the solution. A company from USA, Arizona, they provide industrial rope access and specialized work-at-height services. . Abseilon equips their technicians with wearable devices such as smart helmets and harnesses integrated with sensors and communication capabilities. These wearables provide real-time monitoring of vital signs, environmental conditions, and worker positioning. The sensors detect factors like altitude, temperature, and air quality, alerting technicians to potential hazards or deviations from safety protocols. The communication features enable seamless coordination and collaboration among team members, allowing for instant updates and instructions. By leveraging wearable technology, Abseilon ensures the well-being of their technicians while improving overall productivity and precision in their work-at-height services. Amazon Amazon, the global e-commerce giant, has integrated wearable technology into its warehouse operations, revolutionizing the way their employees work. Through the deployment of smart devices such as smart glasses and wristbands, Amazon has enhanced worker productivity and safety. These wearable devices provide real-time instructions, navigation guidance, and safety alerts to warehouse workers. By wearing smart glasses, workers can receive visual cues and information, improving accuracy and efficiency in picking and packing processes. The wristbands embedded with sensors track the movements of workers and provide feedback on their performance, ensuring optimal workflow and reducing errors.
Honeywell A multinational conglomerate that is involved aerospace, building technologies, performance materials and technologies (PMT), and safety and productivity solutions (SPS), is behind many of the wearable technology that is used by many other companies, including themselves. They offer a range of wearable devices, including smart helmets and smart glasses, that enhance worker safety, increase productivity, and provide real-time data for analysis and decision-making. Honeywell's smart helmets, equipped with advanced sensors, monitor worker health and detect potential hazards in real-time, ensuring a safe working environment. Their smart glasses enable workers to access critical information and instructions, improving task efficiency and accuracy. These wearables empower workers by providing them with essential data and insights, fostering collaboration, and enhancing overall operational excellence. Honeywell's utilization of wearable technology demonstrates their commitment to innovation and leveraging cutting-edge solutions to drive productivity and safety in industrial settings. Boeing The renowned American aerospace and defense company has also begun using smart glasses and augmented reality (AR) technology as part of their Advanced Assembly and Integration (AAI) program. Their use of smart glasses play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of assembly line workers. Equipped with AR capabilities, these smart glasses provide workers with real-time instructions, virtual overlays, and step-by-step visual guidance during complex assembly tasks. This works by granting the wearer “X-ray vision”, projecting the insides of the planes over the exterior. The AR technology allows workers to view digital information overlaid onto the physical components, eliminating the need for traditional paper instructions and reducing errors. Boeing's AAI program utilizes this technology to streamline assembly processes, improve productivity, and ensure precise alignment and fit of components.
THE RISKS OF WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY While the adoption of wearable technology in businesses like logistics and heavy industry brings numerous benefits, it is essential to address the associated risks. Because wearable technology is a form of Internet of Things, IoT, connecting everything and everyone to the world wide web and exposing them any and every possible cyber security risk imaginable. One significant risk is the potential for hackers to hijack the equipment and exploit vulnerabilities in wearable devices. As these devices become more interconnected and communicate with other systems, they may become targets for cyber criminals seeking to disrupt operations, steal sensitive data, or gain unauthorized access to critical infrastructure. Another risk is corporate espionage, where competitors or malicious actors may attempt to infiltrate wearable technology systems to gather sensitive information about a company's operations, processes, or intellectual property. The use of wearable devices in these industries provides valuable insights and real-time data, making them an attractive target for espionage activities. Unauthorized access to this information can result in severe economic and competitive damage to the affected business.
Additionally, the adoption of wearable technology raises concerns about employee privacy. Companies must strike a balance between leveraging the data collected from wearables to enhance safety and efficiency while respecting the privacy rights of their employees. If not properly managed, wearable technology can lead to an infringement of personal privacy, as it may gather sensitive information beyond what is necessary for workrelated purposes. Employees may feel uncomfortable with the continuous monitoring of their activities, health data, or location, leading to potential ethical and legal implications for the company.
Looking ahead, the future of wearables in business points towards greater sophistication and seamless integration. Smart glasses, for instance, will provide employees with real-time data overlays, augmenting their performance and simplifying complex tasks. Fitness trackers and smartwatches will not only monitor employee well-being but also enable personalized health interventions and stress management. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize work processes, streamlining operations and enhancing overall productivity. However, alongside these opportunities, businesses need to be cognizant of the possible risks involved. Cybersecurity emerges as a critical concern, with wearables becoming increasingly interconnected and transmitting sensitive business information. Another risk to consider is the potential infringement on employee privacy. As wearables become more integrated into work environments, questions arise regarding the extent of data collection and the boundaries of employee privacy. Furthermore, overreliance on wearables may pose challenges in the event of device malfunctions or disruptions. Businesses must have contingency plans in place to mitigate any adverse impact on operations, ensuring minimal disruption and downtime. Additionally, managing the constant connectivity and digital distractions that wearables bring is essential to maintain employee focus and work-life balance. In summary, the future of wearable technology in business settings holds immense promise, ushering in a new era of productivity and efficiency. However, businesses must remain vigilant of the potential risks that come hand-in-hand with these advancements. By prioritizing cyber security, respecting employee privacy, and promoting a healthy digital work environment, businesses can harness the full potential of wearable technology while mitigating potential risks and ensuring a secure and productive future. THE FUTURE OF WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY