Wearables are a type of technology that collect data through sensors such as a fitbit or exercise tracker. Dr. Veety talked about wearables that are self-powered. The data is collected through the skin and the sensor is powered by energy that is produced from the person or animal wearing the device. A lot of different types of information can be collected through wearables such as heartbeat rates, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Wearables can also be put on different kinds of animals, both big and small. People at NC State are working on sensors that can be put on cockroaches that could be used to help find people who are trapped under a collapsed building. Sensors have been developed for elephants in Africa so they can be redirected from walking into farms. This solves two problems because after an elephant destroys a farm, it is usually killed by the farmers. Data from sensors can be used to track movement, change behaviors, and improve health. The technology for wearables have improved a lot. When they started out, they were big, clunky boxes of wires. Now they are much smaller and easier to put on.
As a scientist studying sensors and wearable technology, you need to know to create a 3-D model that can fit all the technology needed but also be comfortable and practical. People will probably not want to wear the device if they don't look cool.
I would like for a personal GPS wearable device to be created. People who are hiking, sailing, or exploring could use it rather than have to carry additional equipment.