Researchers have developed an electronic necklace that aids in quitting smoking, a concept highlighted by Northwestern University. The device presents itself as a striking blue pendant, resembling lapis lazuli, while safeguarding user privacy by capturing heat signatures only from the lit end of a cigarette instead of using video. This design choice is intentional to make users feel comfortable sharing data. The creators note that the necklace can detect when a cigarette is lit, when a puff occurs, the duration of each puff, the interval between puffs, and how long the cigarette remains in the mouth.
These measurements are grouped under cigarette topography, a term used to describe the pattern and intensity of smoking. Understanding topography helps researchers quantify the harmful exposure from tobacco and explore how chemicals relate to tobacco-related diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung conditions, diabetes, and chronic bronchitis. In parallel, this information can support people who are trying to quit. If an individual relapses or resumes smoking, the necklace can alert a wellness counselor who can reach out to offer guidance or support as needed.
Inside the necklace is a microcomputer that processes infrared sensor data. An embedded neural network, trained on real smoking scenarios, interprets the signals to distinguish a cigarette from other heat sources and to tell a user’s cigarette usage apart from someone else’s. It also records puff events, building a detailed picture of smoking behavior without capturing intrusive video.
Beyond its technical features, the project underscores how wearable health devices can empower individuals while preserving privacy. By translating heat patterns into actionable insights, the necklace provides a noninvasive way to monitor smoking habits and support cessation efforts without excessive data sharing or surveillance concerns. This approach aligns with broader efforts in personalized health technology to blend monitoring with user autonomy and informed consent.
In summary, the necklace represents a convergence of medical research and wearable tech, offering a practical tool for studying cigarette consumption and supporting quitting strategies. As researchers continue to refine such devices, they aim to enhance accuracy, user comfort, and the ability to connect with healthcare professionals when needed, all while keeping privacy at the forefront of design and implementation.