Day 2: Wearable Tech RFID (Concept Sketch / Look-and-Feel prototype)

Conceptual Framework and Research:

I have a p-comp itch that I need to scratch. For a while I’ve been thinking about the idea of a fashionable tech/wearable tech accessory or garment that would react to the frequency given out any time the PDM communicates with the pod insulin pump. The communication occurs when there is an error, when the insulin is low, when the pod needs to be changed, and when the person inputs food intake for insulin delivery.

From much research, I have found that the devices operate at 13.56 MHz. What I want to do is pick up this frequency and turn on an LED or series of LEDs. I could see this living in a recycled insulin pump pod, on a garment, or on an accessory bag for pump supplies. The imagery would be in line with my continuing exploration of mythology and would hopefully help alleviate the anxiety associated with diabetic management.

I’ve been in communication with someone who has a lot of experience making RF circuits and he and I have exchanged emails regarding this idea. I found a circuit schematic that I think will work (click here to check it out). My concerns are in interfering with the device. I’m also concerned that this is not something my audience will want. This is something the DT tech kids would want…

Either way I wanted to get the concept sketches and logical steps out there so I could stew on it and decide if it’s something worth pursuing.

What I’ve done so far:

I spent a LOT of time getting together parts from Digi-Key (many capacitors!) and I also created a constellation-inspired recycled pod necklace with an LED inside. The constellation on there is that of Cetus, or the whale, as a reference to my previous use of the whale as associated with the pump.

(download)