StretchEBand Scientifically Integrates Smart Sensors Into Normal Fabric

Jeremy S. Cook
Jul 26, 2017 · 2 min read

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.

StretchEBand is a textile-based stretch sensor for interacting with a variety of devices. (📷: Media Interaction Lab)

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.

Going for a run? Switch between songs or control your stopwatch by pulling the band. (📷: Media Interaction Lab)

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.

StretchEBand can turn everyday objects like pillows into a remote for your TV. (📷: Media Interaction Lab)

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.

Hackster Blog

Hackster.io, an Avnet community, is the world’s largest network for hardware & software developers. With 1 million members and 17,000+ projects, beginners and professionals can learn and share how to build robotics, industrial automation systems, AI-powered machines, and more.

Jeremy S. Cook

Written by

Engineer, tech writer, content creator, maker of random contraptions for fun and profit.

Hackster Blog

Hackster.io, an Avnet community, is the world’s largest network for hardware & software developers. With 1 million members and 17,000+ projects, beginners and professionals can learn and share how to build robotics, industrial automation systems, AI-powered machines, and more.

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