Now, smart scarf that will heat up, vibrate on demand

The prototype scarf, dubbed Swarm (Sensing Whether Affect Requires Mediation) by Microsoft researchers, made its debut at a Stanford University conference this week, accoridng to MIT Technology Review and Mobi Health News, PC World reported.

It consists of hexagon-shaped modules of industrial felt with conductive copper taffeta on top, with some of the modules able to heat up and others able to vibrate.

The modules then form a chain with a master controller module, which connects to a smartphone app via Bluetooth for controlling the heating and vibration. Users can also rearrange the order of the modules using metal snaps at the end of each one, or use a sleeve to change the look of the scarf.

Microsoft researchers see Swarm as having deeper medical uses beyond keeping people's neck warm. Someday, sensors might be able to detect stress in the wearer, and provide heat or pressure as a form of therapy.

This type of treatment is occasionally used for people with autism, and researchers say they consulted with people who have autism, hearing disabilities and visual impairments as part of the project.

(ANI)