StretchEBand Scientifically Integrates Smart Sensors Into Normal Fabric
You may have seen different types of sensors integrated into clothing or other textile-based objects. While interesting, these type of interactions generally require careful sensor placement and experimentation, and are built by those with a high degree of technical skill. The StretehEBand aims to make these sensors in such a way that they can be integrated into fabric with a normal sewing machine, lessening the technical barrier to smart fabrics.

As seen in the video below, the working prototypes of this concept can be employed in a wide variety of configurations. Use as a smartphone case with four tabs that can be pulled to navigate email seems extremely natural, and attaching a fabric sensor to an automotive seat also seems like an excellent application. The effectiveness of these sensors was verified experimentally, with very good results.

The project, however, goes beyond physical prototypes, as researchers have scientifically compared different stitch types, and what type of stretching each technique allows. They even compared how the type of conductive thread that they’re using affects results. From this data, they have generated several formulas dictating stitch sensor design, which could be very useful as this technology evolves.

Perhaps one day pants and shirts will not only be designed based on looks and fit, but computationally modeled to see how and where interactive elements can best be integrated! Until then, you can read more about StretchEBand in its paper here.


