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Introduction

`Wearcam' is perhaps the first Internet-connected computer that has many features of a desktop multimedia computer: one or more cameras, microphones, high speed video processing and communications link, as well as its own Internet address. These items are attached to the wearer in a natural fashion, so that they can be used, at times, without (much) conscious effort, and while performing other activities. The computer display is a virtual image from a miniature cathode-ray tube within a pair of eyeglasses. The image from the camera(s) is presented on the display in a way that is natural and intuitive. A camera and microphone are situated in such a way as to give a first person vantage --- the camera ``sees'' exactly what the wearer sees, rather than the second person perspective of traditional multimedia applications where the camera ``sees'' a picture of the user. This paper presents two applications of `WearCam' to the handicapped. Both example applications use a `visual filter'[2]: the first being a spatial filter to assist the visually impaired, the second being temporal filter to assist those with memory disability (e.g., those with difficulty recognizing faces).





Steve Mann
Wed Feb 14 01:19:59 EST 1996