element14 launches safety-oriented wearables design challenge

Dec. 21, 2016
15 designers will use Texas Instruments development boards and kits to build wearables in ‘Safe and Sound’ challenge

Electronic design community element14 has launched a design challenge for engineers and designers called ‘Safe and Sound’. Sponsored by Texas Instruments (TI), element14 is challenging 15 community members to design a personal safety-oriented wearable solution that protects a person from personal and environmental risks, monitors personal health or protects personal property from theft. Last year, element14  asked participants to solve world problems using LEDs and LED drivers.

Entries are welcome from electronic engineers, performance apparel designers and makers.

“The wearables market is an area that demands innovation and creativity, and we are confident that our members can rise to the challenge and put their skills to work to highlight and address key challenges faced by employers and employees as they stay safe at work or at home,” said Dianne Kibbey, global head of content and community at element14. 

Applications will be accepted until January 27, 2017 with the official challengers announced on February 13, 2017. Challengers are required to integrate TI’s MSP432 microcontroller (MCU), via the MSP432 LaunchPad development kit, as the main application MCU in to their design. Each challenger will provide weekly updates on their progress through blog posts, photos and videos.

Finalists will have until May 12, 2017 to submit with winners announced at the end of the month.