This year’s Wearable Computing Center Forum was a huge success, with 200 registered attendees. The forum included an expert panel on wearable technology, a show and tell of wearable computing gadgets, and a keynote on wearable technology in the workplace from Brian Ballard, CEO & Co-Founder of APX Labs.

The forum wrapped up with a reception and musical performance by Italian artist Rocco Centrella, also known as Rhó. Centrella performed with a wearable tech musical garment designed and built by Georgia Tech researchers. Research Scientists Clint Zeagler and Scott Gilliland created the garment called “The Hood” for a music project by Centrella.

“The design takes inspiration from a hood in order to create something very dramatic and connected with my identity,” said Centrella. “It’s a controller, but it is a very comfortable dress as well.”

The functionality of the garment is something new, though, as it allowed Centrella to play and create music through a Bluetooth connection to his music making software.

Zeagler and Centrella discussed creating The Hood after meeting last year in Rome. WCC Forum organizers then decided to feature the garment at its late afternoon showcase. Centrella arrived in Atlanta one week prior to the forum, which provided a short time to work on The Hood.

“Working with Rhó was very exciting for both Scott and myself," said Zeagler. "In just one week we learned what he needed to be able to control for his musical performance, and he learned of our wearable textile interface capabilities.  The performance was beautiful, and we are excited to see what can come from a longer collaboration.”

“I've learned a lot of things about technology as the guys (Zeagler and Gilliland) learned about music,” said Centrella. “This was a very intense exchange on different levels, culturally and professionally. I think that only a great research university that trusts its faculty, like Georgia Tech, could create an opportunity of learning as the one we shared.”

Learn more about Georgia Tech’s Wearable Computing Center and Rhó.