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1 pages, 145 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

E-Textile Seam Crossing with Screen Printed Circuits and Anisotropic Conductive Film

by Mark Catchpole

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032016 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1203

Abstract

Screen printed circuits on substrates such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) have been used
for many years in certain wearable applications such as heart rate monitors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

Other

Jump to: Research

5 pages, 749 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Solar Energy-Harvesting E-Textiles to Power Wearable Devices

by Achala Satharasinghe, Theodore Hughes-Riley and Tilak Dias

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032001 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2018

Abstract

This work presents an innovative solar energy harvesting fabric and demonstrates its suitability for powering wearable and mobile devices. A large solar energy harvesting fabric containing 200 miniature solar cells has been shown to charge a 110 mF textile supercapacitor bank within 37 [...] Read more.

This work presents an innovative solar energy harvesting fabric and demonstrates its suitability for powering wearable and mobile devices. A large solar energy harvesting fabric containing 200 miniature solar cells has been shown to charge a 110 mF textile supercapacitor bank within 37 s. A series of solar energy harvesting fabrics with different design features, such as using red or black fibres, were tested and compared to a commercially available flexible solar panel outside under direct sunlight. The results showed that the solar energy harvesting fabrics had power densities that were favorable when compared to the commercially available solar cell. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 751 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Knitted Coil for Inductive Plethysmography

by Kristel Fobelets

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032002 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1271

Abstract

Knitting a thin insulated metal wire simultaneously with elastic yarn in the round creates a coil with a self-inductance close to a wound coil. This knit is flexible and can be stretched, allowing the diameter of the coil to change, resulting in a [...] Read more.

Knitting a thin insulated metal wire simultaneously with elastic yarn in the round creates a coil with a self-inductance close to a wound coil. This knit is flexible and can be stretched, allowing the diameter of the coil to change, resulting in a change of its self-inductance. It is found that rib stitch gives the highest inductance but stocking stitch gives the highest variation of self-inductance with changing diameter. The feasibility of using the knitted coil for inductive plethysmography is demonstrated by simulated breathing in a baby jumper with knitted coils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Knitted Multi-Junction Pressure Sensor That Uses Electrical Resistance to Determine the Applied Pressure: Development and Characterization

by Theodore Hughes-Riley, Carlos Oliveira and Tilak Dias

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032003 - 4 Dec 2019

Viewed by 1316

Abstract

The measurement of pressure at the skin is highly important for a number of human-based monitoring applications. This work presents a resistive knitted spacer pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure at the skin–clothing–seat interface for wheelchair users. The sensor has been characterized over [...] Read more.

The measurement of pressure at the skin is highly important for a number of human-based monitoring applications. This work presents a resistive knitted spacer pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure at the skin–clothing–seat interface for wheelchair users. The sensor has been characterized over a relevant range of pressures, and its hysteretic behavior has been analyzed. Preliminary work towards creating supporting hardware for recording pressure at multiple junctions across the sensor has been presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Photovoltaic Solar Textiles

by John I B Wilson and Robert R Mather

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032004 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1891

Abstract

Solar cells are an option for powering active electronics on textiles, but should be fully integrated to avoid compromising the flexibility and handle of the basic fabric. Photovoltaic (PV) cells conventionally use rigid silicon wafers but there are also thin-film options, although some [...] Read more.

Solar cells are an option for powering active electronics on textiles, but should be fully integrated to avoid compromising the flexibility and handle of the basic fabric. Photovoltaic (PV) cells conventionally use rigid silicon wafers but there are also thin-film options, although some are sensitive to moisture and oxygen, and others require processing temperatures outside the range of most flexible materials. The coating on textiles is also influenced by the fabric’s texture, elasticity, and surface roughness. The demands of a flexible structure affect the choice of the other parts of PV cells, namely their electrical contacts and any encapsulation layers. The two alternative routes to a textile PV design are—(i) coat the fabric with successive layers needed to make a sandwich device, or (ii) coat individual yarns with these layers and then process them into a fabric, e.g., by weaving. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 461 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Electrode for Wearable Electrotherapy

by Meijing Liu, Steve Beeby and Kai Yang

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032005 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1746

Abstract

An electrode is a fundamental element used in many electrotherapy devices. This work presents a novel dry electrode made from carbon and silicone rubber materials for wearable electrotherapy applications. The electrode was mixed using a speed mixer and fabricated using stencil printing. This [...] Read more.

An electrode is a fundamental element used in many electrotherapy devices. This work presents a novel dry electrode made from carbon and silicone rubber materials for wearable electrotherapy applications. The electrode was mixed using a speed mixer and fabricated using stencil printing. This paper investigates the resistivity change of the electrode under the pressure from 0 mmHg to 32.4 mmHg; and the skin–electrode impendence with the current frequency from 20 Hz to 10,000 Hz. The resistivity of the novel dry electrode is 24.6 ± 1.5 Ω∙m when the pressure on electrode is 17.7 mmHg. The skin–electrode impedance reduced from 1001.6 Ω to 145.3 Ω when the frequency increased from 20 Hz to 10,000 Hz. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 406 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing a Vibration-Sensing Yarn for Monitoring Hand-Transmitted Vibrations

by Zahra Rahemtulla, Theodore Hughes-Riley and Tilak Dias

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032006 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1384

Abstract

Overexposure to hand-transmitted vibrations (HTVs) is a serious concern within industries that use vibrating power tools as HTVs can lead to severe and chronic injuries to the hand-arm system, which are preventable by limiting vibration exposure. This study presents a novel vibration-sensing electronic [...] Read more.

Overexposure to hand-transmitted vibrations (HTVs) is a serious concern within industries that use vibrating power tools as HTVs can lead to severe and chronic injuries to the hand-arm system, which are preventable by limiting vibration exposure. This study presents a novel vibration-sensing electronic yarn (E-yarn) that can be used to monitor HTVs at the point-of-entry of the vibrations into the hand. The construction of the vibration-sensing E-yarn is described, with the vibration-sensing E-yarns being fully characterised at each stage of the manufacturing process to understand how the manufacturing stages affect the behaviour of the embedded sensor. The results show that there is no significant difference in the sensor response at each of the three stages in the E-yarn production over a range of frequencies and amplitudes relevant to HTVs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 571 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Smart Cycling Platform for Textile-Based Sensing and Wireless Power Transfer in Smart Cities

by Abiodun Komolafe, Mahmoud Wagih, Ashwini Valavan, Zeeshan Ahmed, Aleksas Stuikys and Bahareh Zaghari

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032007 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2169

Abstract

This paper proposes an integrated smart cycling system for assisted cycling, energy harvesting and wireless power transfer systems on a bicycle, an enabling platform for autonomous e-textiles-based sensing. The cyclist is assisted by a switched reluctance motor, which also acts as a switched [...] Read more.

This paper proposes an integrated smart cycling system for assisted cycling, energy harvesting and wireless power transfer systems on a bicycle, an enabling platform for autonomous e-textiles-based sensing. The cyclist is assisted by a switched reluctance motor, which also acts as a switched reluctance generator that harvests a peak power of 7.5 W, at 10% efficiency during cycling to power on body sensors. To demonstrate wearable on-body sensing, a thin flexible CO₂ gas sensor filament, which can be woven in fabric, is presented and evaluated. Wearable inductive resonant wireless power transfer (WPT) is achieved using textile embroidered coils on the bicycle’s handle and cycling gloves, achieving more than 80% WPT efficiency from the bicycle to the cyclist’s clothing, useful for powering mobile on-body sensors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 817 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Encapsulation Process and Materials Evaluation for E-Textile Gas Sensor

by Ashwini Valavan, Abiodun Komolafe, Nick Harris and Steve Beeby

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032008 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1930

Abstract

The degree of pollution in the environment increases because of the vehicular emissions such as carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) gases. To minimize the exposure levels, it is necessary for individuals to be able to determine for themselves the [...] Read more.

The degree of pollution in the environment increases because of the vehicular emissions such as carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) gases. To minimize the exposure levels, it is necessary for individuals to be able to determine for themselves the pollution levels of the environments they are in so that they can take the necessary precautions. Textile-based gas sensors are an emerging solution and this paper furthers the concept by investigating a novel method for encapsulating gas sensors in textiles. While encapsulation is required to improve the durability and lifetime of the sensors, it essential for their operation that the encapsulants do not reduce the sensitivity of the gas sensor. This paper investigates the selectivity of two different flexible and breathable thermoplastic encapsulants (Platilon^®U and Zitex G-104) for sensing carbon monoxide by observing the sensor response with and without the encapsulants. Results show that while the encapsulants both enable the sensor to still function, Platilon^®U reduces the sensor sensitivity, whereas Zitex G-104 has very little effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 625 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Novel Skin-Electrode Conductive Adhesives to Improve the Quality of Recorded Body Signals in Smart Medical Garments

by Azadeh Soroudi, Mikael Skrifvars and Vincent Nierstrasz

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032009 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1682

Abstract

A main barrier to widespread use of electrocardiography garments for long term heart monitoring of elderly and patients is a poor skin-electrode signal transfer because of a high contact impedance and sensitivity to movement. This leads to unwanted disturbances and errors in recorded [...] Read more.

A main barrier to widespread use of electrocardiography garments for long term heart monitoring of elderly and patients is a poor skin-electrode signal transfer because of a high contact impedance and sensitivity to movement. This leads to unwanted disturbances and errors in recorded signals when the patient moves or even breathe, affecting the reliability and quality of the signals especially for patients with dry/old skin. In two different projects at the University of Borås, we have developed two novel products to solve the above problem; (1) an ongoing project that has fabricated a reusable and sustainable electro-conductive adhesive applicable between the skin and high-porous textile electrodes, and (2) a patent-pending skin-electrode glue (BioEl Glue^®) which is a biocompatible electro-conductive water-soluble glue used between skin and low-porous textile electrodes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 378 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Towards High-Power Printed Textile Supercapacitors

by Paulo Luís, Jagdeep Sagu, Darren Southee, Upul Wijayantha and George Weaver

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032010 - 5 Dec 2019

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1312

Abstract

The mass commercialization of electronic textiles is currently hindered due to the lack of reliable manufacturing technologies of energy storing textiles. To incorporate energy storage as a part of a garment, it must be manufactured in a systematic manner, allowing the integration of [...] Read more.

The mass commercialization of electronic textiles is currently hindered due to the lack of reliable manufacturing technologies of energy storing textiles. To incorporate energy storage as a part of a garment, it must be manufactured in a systematic manner, allowing the integration of multiple components of electronic textiles simultaneously. Aiming towards process automation, carbon-based screen-printing inks were formulated for textile supercapacitor applications, focusing on the effect of carbon additives in the electrochemical performance. Devices were assembled, and their electrochemical performance was assessed. The maximum areal power density obtained was 12 mW cm⁻² with an areal energy density of 1.08 × 10⁻³ mWh cm⁻². Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 437 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modelling Reliable Electrical Conductors for E-Textile Circuits on Polyimide Filaments

by Abiodun Komolafe, Russel Torah, Michael Tudor and Steve Beeby

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032011 - 5 Dec 2019

Viewed by 1259

Abstract

The weaving of flexible electronic filaments directly into the body of textiles during manufacture represents the state-of-the-art process for integrating electronic functionality into fabrics in a manner that obscures the presence of the electronics from the wearer. The reliability of emerging prototypes under [...] Read more.

The weaving of flexible electronic filaments directly into the body of textiles during manufacture represents the state-of-the-art process for integrating electronic functionality into fabrics in a manner that obscures the presence of the electronics from the wearer. The reliability of emerging prototypes under typical stresses from washing and bending is primarily dependent on the durability of the electrical conductors and on their interconnections with the electronic components attached to them on polyimide filaments. To improve the durability of these filaments, this paper uses the classical beam theory to investigate the material characteristics (thickness and elastic modulus) and suitability of different encapsulations such as polyimide, polyurethane, mylar, and PEEK films for limiting the mechanical stress on the electrical conductors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 575 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring the Role of Textile Craft Practice in Interdisciplinary E-Textiles Development through the Design of an Illuminated Safety Cycling Jacket

by Matholo Kgatuke, Dorothy Hardy, Katherine Townsend, Eloise Salter, Tina Downes, Karen Harrigan, Susan Allcock and Tilak Dias

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032012 - 5 Dec 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1954

Abstract

Most E-textile research tends to fall within the arts or science disciplinary boundaries, despite E-textiles themselves being interdisciplinary in nature. This work explores how contemporary woven textile practice methodologies can play a role within interdisciplinary research, expanding the creative and technical applications of [...] Read more.

Most E-textile research tends to fall within the arts or science disciplinary boundaries, despite E-textiles themselves being interdisciplinary in nature. This work explores how contemporary woven textile practice methodologies can play a role within interdisciplinary research, expanding the creative and technical applications of materials and technologies. A team of electronics, textiles, and fashion specialists was formed to design and make an illuminated jacket for use by cyclists. The jacket incorporated bespoke woven panels that integrated electronic yarns within the pattern. The development of this prototype raised questions about the use of craft practice methodologies in the development of new E-textiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 805 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Wearable FES Electrodes

by David Tyler and Clémentine Mavridis

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032013 - 10 Dec 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1228

Abstract

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been used to revitalise the muscles of people suffering from various kinds of injury. However, when human skin is incorporated into electrical circuits, it must not be treated as a passive component. Skin’s electrical properties must be known [...] Read more.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been used to revitalise the muscles of people suffering from various kinds of injury. However, when human skin is incorporated into electrical circuits, it must not be treated as a passive component. Skin’s electrical properties must be known when electrodes deliver electrical stimulation to the body, whether by hydrogel electrodes or by electrodes embedded in apparel. Failure to address this issue increases the risk of skin burns due to too high current through the skin/electrode interface. We have demonstrated that there is a relationship between electrode size and measured voltage. The rise of voltage with a reduction of electrode size can be explained by the diminution of the skin contact area with resulting higher skin/electrode impedances. Thus, finding an electrical skin model that represents the behaviour of human skin is important for circuit design and the product development process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 869 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Design of Textile Knitted Stretch Sensors for Dance Movement Sensing

by An Liang, Rebecca Stewart and Nick Bryan-Kinns

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032014 - 10 Dec 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1713

Abstract

This paper presents research about design a textile-based stretch sensor for making a reliable sensing system for dance movement sensing. We examined sixteen textile-based conductive stretch sensors that were made with commercially produced conductive materials. Through the analysis of their sensitivity, linearity, hysteresis, [...] Read more.

This paper presents research about design a textile-based stretch sensor for making a reliable sensing system for dance movement sensing. We examined sixteen textile-based conductive stretch sensors that were made with commercially produced conductive materials. Through the analysis of their sensitivity, linearity, hysteresis, responsiveness, and fatigue, a silver-plated conductive fabric, Technik-tex P130B, shows the best performance for dance movement sensing. Then, we tested the bonding technique, and washability of Technik-tex P130B-made sensors. The finding shows that bonding makes a noticeable impact on sensor performance. Both bonding and washing increase the sensor’s resistance. Technik-tex P130B on one side bonding has the best performance for dance movement sensing. This reliable and washable textile-based stretch sensor is utilised for dance bodysuit making for further development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Integrated Flexible Textile Supercapacitor Fabricated in a Polyester-Cotton Fabric

by Sheng Yong, Nicholas Hiller, Kai Yang and Stephen Beeby

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032015 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1355

Abstract

This paper reports the design fabrication and characterization of a flexible supercapacitor fabricated in a single layer of polyester-cotton fabric. The fabric and flexible supercapacitors were implemented with spray coated inexpensive carbon electrodes and low hazardous ionic liquid electrolyte. The encapsulated devices demonstrated [...] Read more.

This paper reports the design fabrication and characterization of a flexible supercapacitor fabricated in a single layer of polyester-cotton fabric. The fabric and flexible supercapacitors were implemented with spray coated inexpensive carbon electrodes and low hazardous ionic liquid electrolyte. The encapsulated devices demonstrated an area capacitance of 20.6 mF·cm⁻². Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 312 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Wearable FES Compression Garment

by Rebecca Bennett, Chloe McDonnell, David Tyler and Jane Wood

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032017 - 11 Dec 2019

Viewed by 1832

Abstract

Functional electrical stimulation is commonly used as a rehabilitation therapy to support the movement of individuals who have suffered traumatic spinal cord injury. Recently, there has been a focused interest on the development of textile electrodes, as they pose many benefits over traditional [...] Read more.

Functional electrical stimulation is commonly used as a rehabilitation therapy to support the movement of individuals who have suffered traumatic spinal cord injury. Recently, there has been a focused interest on the development of textile electrodes, as they pose many benefits over traditional electrodes. This study presents design considerations and the feasibility of a wearable FES garment sleeve using flexible and extensible screen-printed electrodes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 966 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Overcoming the Efficiency Barrier of Textile Antennas: A Transmission Lines Approach

by Mahmoud Wagih, Alex S. Weddell and Steve Beeby

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032018 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1689

Abstract

Designing high-efficiency antennas on textiles is fundamental for the development of wirelessly-connected smart garments. Furthermore, large antenna arrays could be used to receive or harvest directional and ambient radio-frequency (RF) power from the environment, thus enabling battery-free e-textiles. The key challenges that are [...] Read more.

Designing high-efficiency antennas on textiles is fundamental for the development of wirelessly-connected smart garments. Furthermore, large antenna arrays could be used to receive or harvest directional and ambient radio-frequency (RF) power from the environment, thus enabling battery-free e-textiles. The key challenges that are hindering the realisation of high efficiency antennas lie in the dielectric properties of fabrics, the conductivity of their traces, and their low textile thickness. This work numerically and experimentally analyses different RF transmission line structures to establish the limitations of widely utilised antenna designs, such as the microstrip patch, and proposes alternative wearable antenna design based on coplanar waveguide (CPW) structures. It is demonstrated that by using a CPW, insertion losses in a 20 mm line can be minimized by up to 40% for the same substrate, as compared to a microstrip, at 30 GHz. A CPW monopole antenna is demonstrated with more than 80% efficiency on a lossy, thin, poly-cotton substrate. Moreover, it is shown that the efficiency of the CPW monopole is independent of the substrate’s thickness and type of fabric. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 429 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Smarty Pants: Exploring Textile Pressure Sensors in Trousers for Posture and Behaviour Classification

by Sophie Skach, Rebecca Stewart and Patrick G. T. Healey

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032019 - 30 Dec 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1920

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce a new modality for capturing body postures and social behaviour. Vice versa, we propose a new application area for on-body textile sensors. We have developed “smart trousers” with embedded textile pressure sensors that allow for classification of a [...] Read more.

In this paper, we introduce a new modality for capturing body postures and social behaviour. Vice versa, we propose a new application area for on-body textile sensors. We have developed “smart trousers” with embedded textile pressure sensors that allow for classification of a large variety of postural movements as well as interactional states. Random Forest models are used to investigate those. Here, we give an overview of the research conducted and discuss potential use cases of the presented design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Polypyrrole Fibre Electrodes for Drug Sensing

by Sutthima Sriprasertsuk, John R. Varcoe and Carol Crean

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032020 - 18 Jan 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1287

Abstract

Polypyrrole (PPy) fibre electrodes and their ability to sense paracetamol (as a model drug) in addition to interferents such as ascorbic acid and dopamine were studied. PPy was electrodeposited onto carbon fibre (CF) through electropolymerisation using cyclic voltammetry in the presence of two [...] Read more.

Polypyrrole (PPy) fibre electrodes and their ability to sense paracetamol (as a model drug) in addition to interferents such as ascorbic acid and dopamine were studied. PPy was electrodeposited onto carbon fibre (CF) through electropolymerisation using cyclic voltammetry in the presence of two different counter anions: potassium nitrate (KNO₃) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). PPy with SDS as dopant could sense paracetamol with an oxidation peak at 0.55 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The limit of detection of this fibre sensor was found to be 1 µM with a linear range of 1–100 µM of paracetamol (R² = 0.985). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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4 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessExtended Abstract

Graphene-Coated Sensor Yarn for Composite Preforms

by Anura Fernando, Sammia Ali, Sirui Tan and Guanliang He

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032021 - 20 Jan 2020

Viewed by 1213

Abstract

There is extensive research to demonstrate that textile fibre reinforced composites can produce high strength and stiffness at a low weight allowing them to become excellent candidates for applications requiring improved strength and lighter structures compared to their metallic counterparts. [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

5 pages, 526 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Thread-Based Sensors

by Rachel Smith, Mona Sweilam, John Varcoe and Carol Crean

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032022 - 20 Jan 2020

Viewed by 1533

Abstract

Fiber and textile-based chemical sensors are emerging tools which target minimally invasive monitoring. Fiber-shaped electrodes are a versatile design for wearable applications since the fiber architecture allows for straightforward integration into textiles facilitating the principle of “wear-and-forget”. Skin and wound care would benefit [...] Read more.

Fiber and textile-based chemical sensors are emerging tools which target minimally invasive monitoring. Fiber-shaped electrodes are a versatile design for wearable applications since the fiber architecture allows for straightforward integration into textiles facilitating the principle of “wear-and-forget”. Skin and wound care would benefit from real-time pH monitoring, which can indicate wound health and the physiological condition of the skin. A further application of wearable chemical sensors is therapeutic drug monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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5 pages, 823 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Textile Manufacturing Compatible Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Alternating Positive and Negative Freestanding Grating Structure

by Watcharapong Paosangthong, Mahmoud Wagih, Russel Torah and Steve Beeby

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032023 - 20 Jan 2020

Viewed by 1742

Abstract

This paper demonstrates a novel design of textile-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which is compatible with standard textile manufacturing. The device can convert kinetic energy occurring during frictional contact between two dissimilar materials into electricity based on contact electrification and the electrostatic induction effect. [...] Read more.

This paper demonstrates a novel design of textile-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which is compatible with standard textile manufacturing. The device can convert kinetic energy occurring during frictional contact between two dissimilar materials into electricity based on contact electrification and the electrostatic induction effect. The TENG can generate an RMS open-circuit voltage of 136 V, an RMS short-circuit current of 2.68 µA and a maximum RMS power of 125 µW (38.8 mW/m2). To demonstrate practical applications, the TENG was embedded into a lab coat. The energy is generated from the relative movement between the arm and torso. Its output was used to drive a digital watch, a wearable night-time warning indicator for pedestrians, a wireless transmitter and a pedometer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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7 pages, 2381 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Inorganic Printed LEDs for Wearable Technology

by James Claypole, Alex Holder, Caitlin McCall, Amy Winters, William Ray and Tim Claypole

Proceedings 2019, 32(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2019032024 - 27 Mar 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1762

Abstract

: A new form of inorganic printed electronics has been developed that allows for high speed production of solid-state lighting on flexible substrates. Light emitting diodes (LED) become more efficient as their size is decreased. However, the difficulties in making the electrical connection [...] Read more.

: A new form of inorganic printed electronics has been developed that allows for high speed production of solid-state lighting on flexible substrates. Light emitting diodes (LED) become more efficient as their size is decreased. However, the difficulties in making the electrical connection to micro LEDs has previously prevented these benefits being exploited outside the laboratory. Standard InGaN film, grown on a defined substrate (heteroepitaxy), was fabricated into micro LEDs (approx. 27 µm) and dispersed in a carrier fluid to form an ink, which can then be printed using established printing technologies. During printing and curing, the geometry of the individual micro LEDs causes them to orientate into a single preferential direction. Connections can then be made via further printed layers of conductive and dielectric ink to create flexible lamps consisting of areas of discrete LEDs. These lamps have low power consumption and high light output making them ideal for incorporating into garments and for packaging. The “Thunderstorm” dress (a Rainbow Winters project) was developed for the “Wired to Wear” exhibition in the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) to demonstrate the potential of this technology. The concept was to turn the wearer into a living representation of a thunderstorm. The concept had previously been realised in 2010 using electroluminescent elements (EL) to create a lightning flash in the panels of the dress. However, this required the wearer to carry high voltage devices, bulky electronics and heavy batteries. Instead, using inorganic printed LEDs afforded the potential to create a truly wearable piece of haute couture, using low voltages, miniature electronics and small batteries. The work reported here describes the fabrication technique used to create the micro LED lamps and the issues related to their integration into a piece of wearable technology. The lamps could be driven in such a way as to create a more realistic flash compared to the EL version. Other potential applications such as smart packaging, are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles)

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Proceedings, 2019, E-Textiles 2019

International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles

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