From fiber to final product
September 14th, 2020
Wearables become more commercially viable with conductive fiber technology. By Marie O’Mahony Fibers that offer sensing with purpose have been given a more determined emphasis with the current pandemic. Like many smart materials and wearable technologies, there may be many exciting advances, but finding an application as equally forward looking can be challenging. Some recent […]
Drexel announces development of new conductive yarns
November 11th, 2019
MXene-coated yarns were tested by using them to knit textiles in three common patterns, single jersey, half gauge and interlock, to determine the optimal configuration for knitting with the conductive yarn. Photo: Drexel University Center for Functional Fabrics. Producing fabrics that perform all the functions desired, while retaining the best characteristics of fabric is no easy […]
Energy for smart materials and systems
August 12th, 2019
New developments address power and its integration into the production process—for whatever applications can be imagined. by Marie O’Mahony The means chosen in energy provision for smart textiles is largely dictated by the application, or, more precisely, the needs and behavior of the user. This is a meaningful development, taking it from the typical questions […]
Textiles team up with technology for smart medical products
August 7th, 2019
by Pamela Mills-Senn Take operating room (OR) technology. In today’s ORs, one might find an array of smart surgical tools, augmented reality devices and precision robotics that assist surgeons in performing the most complex and exacting of procedures. Patients are greatly benefiting from these advancements, but this isn’t the only medical area where technology is […]
Wearable tech exhibit features new spacesuit
July 23rd, 2019
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), is giving guests a look at Boeing's pioneering new Starliner spacesuit, a recent release from MSI announced. The Starliner spacesuit borrows from historic designs but uses advanced materials and new joint patterns to allow for lighter weight, enhanced flexibility and greater temperature control for astronauts. Components include a soft helmet […]
When innovation succeeds
June 10th, 2019
Collaborative, long-term efforts produce successful new products and applications. by Marie O’Mahony The Kjus Hydro_Bot ski jacket is designed for enhanced performance in extreme conditions. It features an individually controlled electronic moisture management system. Photo: Kjus Hydro_Bot . Harvard professor and author of The Innovator’s Dilemma (1997), Clayton M. Christensen, identified two forms of innovation: […]
Teijin Frontier launches sensing garments
January 21st, 2019
Teijin Frontier has launched a new line of sportswear and other garments incorporating sensing technologies, a recent release announced. The technology is expected to be applied to sports techniques and to support the progress of physical therapy patients. The company’s new vital sensing wear combines NANOFRONT fibers with vital-sign sensing technology. By sensing heart rates […]
Seismic to launch a “super suit” for mobility
July 23rd, 2018
The world’s aging population is “poised to become one of the most significant social transformations of the twenty-first century,” according to the United Nations. The number of people aged 60 years or over is expected to more than double by 2050, the U.N. says. One potential complication is mobility, but a new kind of wearable […]
IP for innovators
April 24th, 2017
Wearable technology faces rising legal questions. Wearable technology is impacting the college and professional sports industry at every level from fitness training to spectator engagement. With the trend set to increase over the next five years, it is worthwhile to ask, “What could this mean for intellectual property (IP) and data ownership?" Consider the audience […]
UMN hosting wearable technology event
November 2nd, 2015
The University of Minnesota’s current event series, Headliners, will offer “Stronger, Faster, Brighter: Wearable Technology and the Future of Clothing” Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Continuing Education and Conference Center. The series provides opportunities to meet with university experts as they share firsthand knowledge of current topics, from medical breakthroughs to social trends. […]