A novel intelligent textile technology based on silicon flexible skins

Abstract

This paper reports the successful prototype development of a novel intelligent textile technology based on the integration of silicon flexible skins with regular textiles.This novel approach enables the embedding of sensing and computational components into textiles without compromising the flexibility of the textiles. Silicon flexible skins comprising of arrays of silicon islands integrated with boron doped strain gauges and metal pads were successfully fabricated using micromachining techniques. Prototypes of intelligent textiles were developed by stitching the silicon flexible skins onto the surface of textiles. The preliminary test demonstrated excellent durability of the prototypes. The strain experienced by the silicon islands was monitored in real-time using the integrated strain gauge when the prototype was mechanically deformed. These strain data provide valuable information for the further optimization and the next stage development of the intelligent textile technology.

Robust monitoring of vital signs integrated in textile

“…From gaming to medical surveillance, a broad spectrum of devices can be conceived. The shear number of research groups presenting their ideas [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] supports this fact. Whereas in some cases there is a tendency to move the sensor systems away from the body [9] (because they can be forgotten, used wrongly, etc.…”

“…), the link with the body is imperative for monitoring biomedical signals. In the development of smart textiles, two main approaches can be distinguished: the first focuses on the use of textiles as sensors [1,2], the second uses existing sensors and components, that are integrated onto the textile [3][4][5][6]. This last group can be divided into two groups as well.…”

Wearable Flexible Sensors: A Review

“…Another application of WFS is as glucose sensors via different mediums like tear [111], immobilization of glucose oxidase [112,113], etc. Electronic skins or e-skins [114,115] are another categories which was developed to mimic the functions like that of a natural skin and determine the changes in temperature, pressure or even your health conditions. These sensors [116] are integrated with thermal actuators and organic displays.…”

Electrostatic power generation using carbon-activated cotton thread on textile

“…Remarkable advancements of micro/nanotechnologies have resulted in the emergence of new applications including novel wearable electronics, the importance of which is on the rise [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]. As device size is minimized for certain applications, the development of compatible small power sources and connections has become more important than ever.…”