In an earlier blog we were talking about redesigning the bee-suit so that it's more functional and usable for children. We would also like to add gadgets to this suit and let it interact with the beehive and maybe your I-phone (or any other smart phone), this could be made possible with the use of intelligent fabrics.
In order to redesign something you need to start with the basics. In this case this meant interviewing beekeepers about their suits. Some points from them:
- A body-warmer could be enough, a whole suit is not necessary. But you'll need to wear gloves and a thick sweater and trousers.
- Most of the suits don't have a zipper, this makes it pretty difficult to put the thing on.
- If you turn your head (with some of the suits), the hood won't turn with you, so you'll be looking at fabric.
- If the fabric will stick to your body, the bees can sting right through it.
- The bees will find every hole in your suit, it's important to keep this in mind.
- Not a lot of beekeepers use colored clothing but there isn't specific reason for this.
- The material for the suit needs to be light, sting-proof, ventilating and easy to handle.
- Bees will get caught in loose and wrinkled clothing and become aggressive.
- Bees need a relaxed approach, children under the age of ten could be to wild > stinging bees won't let the children respect the bees more.
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