First Class Privacy Enhancement Technology

In 2009, I unveiled my first prototype clutch bag to Photo District News in New York City, demonstrating an innovative way to ruin paparazzi photos. Now, I have teamed up with engineers and designers to make it smaller, faster, and brighter than ever. And this year we will be releasing our first fully functional anti-paparazzi clutch bag to the public.

Our patent pending technology makes it possible to automatically detect and block flash photography from digital and film cameras, point and shoot as well as professional. The device is as small as a PDA and safer than conventional camera flashes. It works just as well against one paparazzo as it does against many, and includes a continuous mode to block against video recordings. It also incorporates sensors that detect bag position, allowing you to control the light.

The anti-paparazzi clutch shifts power away from photographers back to you. It can communicate your desire to not be photographed by delivering an instant, ruinous burst of light to unexpected and unwanted photographers. Invaded privacy can be permanent and irreversible. “Misunderstandings” are often interpreted by viewers not by reason or explanation. Our technology allows you to control the conversation. Not them.

Innovation

Recognized by the International Symposium of Wearable Computing as an advancement to the field of wearable technology in 2009, the anti-paparazzi clutch innovates a new solution to a growing problem of photo-saturated culture, the rise of paparazzi. As a response, our device communicates the desire to not be photographed. It is a personal privacy setting for the physical world.

Integrated within a clutch bag, the device provides over 4,000 flashbacks or several minutes of continuous light-protection at an unparalleled brightness of over 11,000 lumens*; bright enough to overexpose photos and hide your identity. A full recharge is possible in 20 minutes and the technology is also scalable and modular. Multiple units could be used to create a synchronized network of wireless devices. And designers can implement their own custom fashion accessories that build on top of our pre-built modules.

*Pertains to our current testing model. During development, features may be added and/or altered.

Patent Pending Technology

Major breakthroughs in LED lighting and battery technology make this device possible. Within each bag are highly optimized electronics for creating a pulse of light comparable to that from a typical xenon bulb camera flash. We’ve overcome previously failed attempts at this device by creating an always ready power supply that responds as fast as 1 ms. This allows the device to respond to any number of flashes and operate in a continuous light mode for use in high-camera situations. Just one year ago, it would not yet have been possible. In 2010, the our final prototype will be ready for testing and demos. If you would like to schedule a visit to see the demo in May, please contact us here.

Credits

Thanks to Heather Knight (technical adviser), The student community at New York University’s Interactive Telecommunication Program, Tom Igoe, and Zach Eveland for their support and encouragement.

Model: MarilynMonrobot