Body-temp camouflage for soldiers shows promise
August 9th, 2021
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a wearable technology that can hide a person from heat-detecting sensors, such as night vision goggles, adapting to temperature changes within minutes. As reported by the UC San Diego news center, the technology uses materials that can create heating or cooling effects when the ambient temperature […]
Thermoelectric device charges itself with body heat
May 10th, 2021
Despite the continued development and commercialization of various wearable electronic devices, such as smart bands, progress with these devices has been curbed by one major limitation: they regularly need to be recharged. However, a new technology developed by a South Korean research team shows significant potential to overcome this limitation for wearable electronic devices. The […]
Rodgers: Textiles are the “T” in STEM
November 11th, 2020
How do you create a channel from research to application? How do you create a pathway toward understanding complex human problems across supply chains and market sectors? STEM—a curriculum based on teaching science, technology, engineering and math—has branched out from basic chemistry and biology and physics classes, into collaborative efforts, including textiles, according to Stephanie […]
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 […]