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Wearable Computers a Possible Solution for Reading Blueprints

The University of Illinois is studying the possible use of wearable computers on the construction site, according to a March 5 story in The Daily Illini.

Construction workers often have problems with conventional blueprints that are too large to manage while working and with faxed documents that are unclear.

Worn with a belt, vest, suspenders, shoulder pack or backpack, the computer devices would provide workers with a way to keep their hands free while having access to design information at the touch of a button, according to George Elvin, an assistant professor of architecture at the university who is leading a study on their possible uses.

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The computers consist of a central processing unit and a flat panel display.

Although they cost about $5,000 each, Elvin indicated that they would more than pay for themselves in a construction industry where inefficiency costs more than $30 billion a year.

Before they become widely used, possibly within five to 10 years, Elvin said that the devices would need extra security protection and researchers will need to find a way to ensure that wireless connections are not blocked by steel, concrete and other construction materials. Researchers also need to find a screen that is visible both indoors and outdoors.

The Xybernaut Corp. is one of only a handful of companies that manufacture the computer, the article says.
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