The Wearable Health Care System (WEALTHY) is a recently completed European project (and like every European Union project, its website is extremly depressing) aimed at creating a wearable health monitoring system. Sensors (in fiber and yarn form), advanced signal processing techniques and telecommunication systems are embedded into fabrics. The sensors collect information about the wearer’s respiration, core and surface skin temperature, position and movement. The garment can take advantage of the mobile phone network to communicate the data with remote sensors, thanks to the integration of a miniaturised GPRS transmitter.

The system has been designed to assist patients during rehabilitation or professional worker during risk activities. The garment monitors its wearer during everyday tasks and physical exercise, sending alerts and warnings or providing reassurance over the situation. It alert emergency services in case of absence of patient response, alarming vital signs, etc.