GER: mood sweater

The GER: Galvanic Extimacy Responder. mood sweater is an emotive display that is an externalized intimacy — a display of the personal in the world — the interface by which we identify with the other so that we may gain greater insight of the self. Inspired by Jacques Lacan’s “extimacy,” the GER visually displays the wearer’s emotional state for both the self and other.

Mood is interpreted by a Galvanized Skin Response (GSR) which is a classic lie detector test. The sensors read sweat [nervousness] and translate the data into a palette of affective colors

The high collar, bowl design positioned with LEDs reflects onto the self for instant biofeedback and acts as a tele-display or external blush for the other. Located on around the larynx, the visual interface replaces speaking, as emotions are instantly expressed. This creates a biofeedback loop that enhances the blush and tranquility, and the affective balance.

comments: A mood sweater!

design by kristin neidlinger
photo by Defne Beyce

Inspired by Dr. Sean M. Montgomery’s Truth wristband.
For the GER, we used an arduino nano micro-controller to be able to customize the sensor to a range of people.

materials:
arduino nano
conductive fabric
LEDs
skin