1
|
Stanley J, Kunovski P, Hunt JA, Wei Y. Stretchable electronic strips for electronic textiles enabled by 3D helical structure. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11065. [PMID: 38744933 PMCID: PMC11094078 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61406-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of stretchable electronic devices is a critical area of research for wearable electronics, particularly electronic textiles (e-textiles), where electronic devices embedded in clothing need to stretch and bend with the body. While stretchable electronics technologies exist, none have been widely adopted. This work presents a novel and potentially transformative approach to stretchable electronics using a ubiquitous structure: the helix. A strip of flexible circuitry ('e-strip') is twisted to form a helical ribbon, transforming it from flexible to stretchable. A stretchable core-in this case rubber cord-supports the structure, preventing damage from buckling. Existing helical electronics have only extended to stretchable interconnects between circuit modules, and individual components such as printed helical transistors. Fully stretchable circuits have, until now, only been produced in planar form: flat circuits, either using curved geometry to enable them to stretch, or using inherently stretchable elastomer substrates. Helical e-strips can bend along multiple axes, and repeatedly stretch between 30 and 50%, depending on core material and diameter. LED and temperature sensing helical e-strips are demonstrated, along with design rules for helical e-strip fabrication. Widely available materials and standard fabrication processes were prioritized to maximize scalability and accessibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Stanley
- Smart Wearable Research Group, Department of Engineering, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | | | - John A Hunt
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- College of Biomedical Engineering, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yang Wei
- Smart Wearable Research Group, Department of Engineering, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li S, Li H, Lu Y, Zhou M, Jiang S, Du X, Guo C. Advanced Textile-Based Wearable Biosensors for Healthcare Monitoring. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:909. [PMID: 37887102 PMCID: PMC10605256 DOI: 10.3390/bios13100909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
With the innovation of wearable technology and the rapid development of biosensors, wearable biosensors based on flexible textile materials have become a hot topic. Such textile-based wearable biosensors promote the development of health monitoring, motion detection and medical management, and they have become an important support tool for human healthcare monitoring. Textile-based wearable biosensors not only non-invasively monitor various physiological indicators of the human body in real time, but they also provide accurate feedback of individual health information. This review examines the recent research progress of fabric-based wearable biosensors. Moreover, materials, detection principles and fabrication methods for textile-based wearable biosensors are introduced. In addition, the applications of biosensors in monitoring vital signs and detecting body fluids are also presented. Finally, we also discuss several challenges faced by textile-based wearable biosensors and the direction of future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Li
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
- CCZU-ARK Institute of Carbon Materials, Nanjing 210012, China
| | - Huan Li
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
| | - Yongcai Lu
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
| | - Minhao Zhou
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
| | - Sai Jiang
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
| | - Xiaosong Du
- School of Microelectronics and Control Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; (S.L.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (M.Z.); (S.J.)
| | - Chang Guo
- CCZU-ARK Institute of Carbon Materials, Nanjing 210012, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Rail Transit, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rafique A, Ferreira I, Abbas G, Baptista AC. Recent Advances and Challenges Toward Application of Fibers and Textiles in Integrated Photovoltaic Energy Storage Devices. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2023; 15:40. [PMID: 36662335 PMCID: PMC9860006 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-022-01008-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Flexible microelectronic devices have seen an increasing trend toward development of miniaturized, portable, and integrated devices as wearable electronics which have the requirement for being light weight, small in dimension, and suppleness. Traditional three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) electronics gadgets fail to effectively comply with these necessities owing to their stiffness and large weights. Investigations have come up with a new family of one-dimensional (1D) flexible and fiber-based electronic devices (FBEDs) comprising power storage, energy-scavenging, implantable sensing, and flexible displays gadgets. However, development and manufacturing are still a challenge owing to their small radius, flexibility, low weight, weave ability and integration in textile electronics. This paper will provide a detailed review on the importance of substrates in electronic devices, intrinsic property requirements, fabrication classification and applications in energy harvesting, energy storage and other flexible electronic devices. Fiber- and textile-based electronic devices for bulk/scalable fabrications, encapsulation, and testing are reviewed and presented future research ideas to enhance the commercialization of these fiber-based electronics devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amjid Rafique
- CENIMAT|I3N, Department of Materials Science, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
| | - Isabel Ferreira
- CENIMAT|I3N, Department of Materials Science, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ghulam Abbas
- CENIMAT|I3N, Department of Materials Science, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Baptista
- CENIMAT|I3N, Department of Materials Science, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Saidi A, Gauvin C, Ladhari S, Nguyen-Tri P. Advanced Functional Materials for Intelligent Thermoregulation in Personal Protective Equipment. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:3711. [PMID: 34771268 PMCID: PMC8587695 DOI: 10.3390/polym13213711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The exposure to extreme temperatures in workplaces involves physical hazards for workers. A poorly acclimated worker may have lower performance and vigilance and therefore may be more exposed to accidents and injuries. Due to the incompatibility of the existing standards implemented in some workplaces and the lack of thermoregulation in many types of protective equipment that are commonly fabricated using various types of polymeric materials, thermal stress remains one of the most frequent physical hazards in many work sectors. However, many of these problems can be overcome with the use of smart textile technologies that enable intelligent thermoregulation in personal protective equipment. Being based on conductive and functional polymeric materials, smart textiles can detect many external stimuli and react to them. Interconnected sensors and actuators that interact and react to existing risks can provide the wearer with increased safety, protection, and comfort. Thus, the skills of smart protective equipment can contribute to the reduction of errors and the number and severity of accidents in the workplace and thus promote improved performance, efficiency, and productivity. This review provides an overview and opinions of authors on the current state of knowledge on these types of technologies by reviewing and discussing the state of the art of commercially available systems and the advances made in previous research works.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Saidi
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials for Energy and Environment, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada;
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail (IRSST), 505 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montréal, QC H3A 3C2, Canada;
| | - Chantal Gauvin
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail (IRSST), 505 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montréal, QC H3A 3C2, Canada;
| | - Safa Ladhari
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials for Energy and Environment, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada;
| | - Phuong Nguyen-Tri
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials for Energy and Environment, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Blachowicz T, Ehrmann G, Ehrmann A. Textile-Based Sensors for Biosignal Detection and Monitoring. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:6042. [PMID: 34577254 PMCID: PMC8470234 DOI: 10.3390/s21186042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Biosignals often have to be detected in sports or for medical reasons. Typical biosignals are pulse and ECG (electrocardiogram), breathing, blood pressure, skin temperature, oxygen saturation, bioimpedance, etc. Typically, scientists attempt to measure these biosignals noninvasively, i.e., with electrodes or other sensors, detecting electric signals, measuring optical or chemical information. While short-time measurements or monitoring of patients in a hospital can be performed by systems based on common rigid electrodes, usually containing a large amount of wiring, long-term measurements on mobile patients or athletes necessitate other equipment. Here, textile-based sensors and textile-integrated data connections are preferred to avoid skin irritations and other unnecessary limitations of the monitored person. In this review, we give an overview of recent progress in textile-based electrodes for electrical measurements and new developments in textile-based chemical and other sensors for detection and monitoring of biosignals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Blachowicz
- Center for Science and Education, Institute of Physics, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Guido Ehrmann
- Virtual Institute of Applied Research on Advanced Materials (VIARAM);
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Namisnak LH, Khoshnevis S, Diller KR. A Conformable Two-Dimensional Resistance Temperature Detector for Measuring Average Skin Temperature. J Med Device 2021; 15:031010. [PMID: 34336080 DOI: 10.1115/1.4051442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Thermoregulation research and various medical procedures are accomplished by manipulating skin temperature in a nonuniform pattern. Skin temperature monitoring is essential to assess conformance to protocol specifications and to prevent thermal injury. Existing solutions for skin temperature monitoring include single point sensors, such as thermocouples, and two-dimensional methods of sensing surface temperature, such as infrared thermography, and wearable technology. Single point sensors cannot detect the average temperature and consequently their measurements cannot be representative of average surface temperature in a nonuniform temperature field. Infrared thermography requires optical access, and existing ambulatory sensors may require complex manufacturing processes and impede the heat exchange with a source by including a structural substrate layer. Our solution is a two-dimensional resistance temperature detector (two-dimensional (2D) RTD) created by knitting copper magnet wire into custom shapes. The 2D RTDs were calibrated, compared to one-dimensional sensors and wearable sensors, and analyzed for hysteresis, repeatability, and surface area conformation. Resistance and temperature were correlated with an R2 of 0.99. The 2D RTD proved to be a superior device for measuring average skin temperature over a defined area exposed to a nonuniform temperature boundary in the absence of optical access such as when a full body thermal control garment is worn.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Namisnak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street Stop C0800, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Sepideh Khoshnevis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street Stop C0800, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Kenneth R Diller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street Stop C0800, Austin, TX 78712
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Saliba Thorne C, Gatt A, DeRaffaele C, Bazena A, Formosa C. Digital foot health technology and diabetic foot monitoring: A systematic review. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2021; 175:108783. [PMID: 33775686 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2021.108783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In diabetic foot ulceration, a correlation between pressure and skin temperature is suspected. The aim of this systematic review is to provide a more rigorous analysis of existing literature related to the various technologies used to read and measure both in-shoe plantar pressures, and in-shoe skin temperatures simultaneously. METHODS A systematic review of the literature related to the topic was searched in database sources such as Medline OVID, Cochrane Library, PubMed, CONAHL, PROSPERO, and Elsevier. Outcome measures of interest included validity, reliability and responsiveness of in-shoe temperature and/or pressure mapping device used, and characteristics and quantity of sensors used, anatomical landmarks and statistical analysis used to interpret the data. Quality of evidence and risk of bias was evaluated using the QUADAS-2. RESULTS Nineteen studies were identified and included in this review. The majority of studies used a small sample size (mean n = 17) and recruited healthy participants. All studies have shown excellent validity but only a few tested for the reliability of the device. None of the studies tested for responsiveness of the device. Quality assessment results scored high risk in view of 'patient selection', 'use of reference standard' and 'applicability', and low risk in view of 'use if index test' and 'flow and timing'. CONCLUSIONS The data outlined in this review confirms that further improvement, reliability testing and clinical validation of the developed systems is required despite the results of excellent performance in detecting changes of in-shoe skin temperature and pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alfred Gatt
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Malta
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Melt Spinning of Highly Stretchable, Electrically Conductive Filament Yarns. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13040590. [PMID: 33669330 PMCID: PMC7920307 DOI: 10.3390/polym13040590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrically conductive fibers are required for various applications in modern textile technology, e.g., the manufacturing of smart textiles and fiber composite systems with textile-based sensor and actuator systems. According to the state of the art, fine copper wires, carbon rovings, or metallized filament yarns, which offer very good electrical conductivity but low mechanical elongation capabilities, are primarily used for this purpose. However, for applications requiring highly flexible textile structures, as, for example, in the case of wearable smart textiles and fiber elastomer composites, the development of electrically conductive, elastic yarns is of great importance. Therefore, highly stretchable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was compounded with electrically conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and subsequently melt spun. The melt spinning technology had to be modified for the processing of highly viscous TPU–CNT compounds with fill levels of up to 6 wt.% CNT. The optimal configuration was achieved at a CNT content of 5 wt.%, providing an electrical resistance of 110 Ωcm and an elongation at break of 400%.
Collapse
|
9
|
Saleh R, Barth M, Eberhardt W, Zimmermann A. Bending Setups for Reliability Investigation of Flexible Electronics. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:78. [PMID: 33451151 PMCID: PMC7828635 DOI: 10.3390/mi12010078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Flexible electronics is a rapidly growing technology for a multitude of applications. Wearables and flexible displays are some application examples. Various technologies and processes are used to produce flexible electronics. An important aspect to be considered when developing these systems is their reliability, especially with regard to repeated bending. In this paper, the frequently used methods for investigating the bending reliability of flexible electronics are presented. This is done to provide an overview of the types of tests that can be performed to investigate the bending reliability. Furthermore, it is shown which devices are developed and optimized to gain more knowledge about the behavior of flexible systems under bending. Both static and dynamic bending test methods are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafat Saleh
- Hahn-Schickard, Allmandring 9b, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (M.B.); (W.E.); (A.Z.)
- Institute for Micro Integration (IFM), University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 9B, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Maximilian Barth
- Hahn-Schickard, Allmandring 9b, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (M.B.); (W.E.); (A.Z.)
| | - Wolfgang Eberhardt
- Hahn-Schickard, Allmandring 9b, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (M.B.); (W.E.); (A.Z.)
| | - André Zimmermann
- Hahn-Schickard, Allmandring 9b, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (M.B.); (W.E.); (A.Z.)
- Institute for Micro Integration (IFM), University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 9B, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hardy DA, Rahemtulla Z, Satharasinghe A, Shahidi A, Oliveira C, Anastasopoulos I, Nashed MN, Kgatuke M, Komolafe A, Torah R, Tudor J, Hughes-Riley T, Beeby S, Dias T. Wash Testing of Electronic Yarn. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13051228. [PMID: 32182823 PMCID: PMC7085099 DOI: 10.3390/ma13051228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Electronically active yarn (E-yarn) pioneered by the Advanced Textiles Research Group of Nottingham Trent University contains a fine conductive copper wire soldered onto a package die, micro-electro-mechanical systems device or flexible circuit. The die or circuit is then held within a protective polymer packaging (micro-pod) and the ensemble is inserted into a textile sheath, forming a flexible yarn with electronic functionality such as sensing or illumination. It is vital to be able to wash E-yarns, so that the textiles into which they are incorporated can be treated as normal consumer products. The wash durability of E-yarns is summarized in this publication. Wash tests followed a modified version of BS EN ISO 6330:2012 procedure 4N. It was observed that E-yarns containing only a fine multi-strand copper wire survived 25 cycles of machine washing and line drying; and between 5 and 15 cycles of machine washing followed by tumble-drying. Four out of five temperature sensing E-yarns (crafted with thermistors) and single pairs of LEDs within E-yarns functioned correctly after 25 cycles of machine washing and line drying. E-yarns that required larger micro-pods (i.e., 4 mm diameter or 9 mm length) were less resilient to washing. Only one out of five acoustic sensing E-yarns (4 mm diameter micro-pod) operated correctly after 20 cycles of washing with either line drying or tumble-drying. Creating an E-yarn with an embedded flexible circuit populated with components also required a relatively large micro-pod (diameter 0.93 mm, length 9.23 mm). Only one embedded circuit functioned after 25 cycles of washing and line drying. The tests showed that E-yarns are suitable for inclusion in textiles that require washing, with some limitations when larger micro-pods were used. Reduction in the circuit’s size and therefore the size of the micro-pod, may increase wash resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy Anne Hardy
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
- Correspondence: (D.A.H.); (T.H.-R.)
| | - Zahra Rahemtulla
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Achala Satharasinghe
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Arash Shahidi
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Carlos Oliveira
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Ioannis Anastasopoulos
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Mohamad Nour Nashed
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Matholo Kgatuke
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| | - Abiodun Komolafe
- School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (A.K.); (R.T.); (J.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Russel Torah
- School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (A.K.); (R.T.); (J.T.); (S.B.)
| | - John Tudor
- School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (A.K.); (R.T.); (J.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Theodore Hughes-Riley
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
- Correspondence: (D.A.H.); (T.H.-R.)
| | - Steve Beeby
- School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (A.K.); (R.T.); (J.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Tilak Dias
- The Advanced Textiles Research Group, School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (Z.R.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (C.O.); (I.A.); (M.N.N.); (M.K.); (T.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lugoda P, Costa JC, Oliveira C, Garcia-Garcia LA, Wickramasinghe SD, Pouryazdan A, Roggen D, Dias T, Münzenrieder N. Flexible Temperature Sensor Integration into E-Textiles Using Different Industrial Yarn Fabrication Processes. SENSORS 2019; 20:s20010073. [PMID: 31877742 PMCID: PMC6982775 DOI: 10.3390/s20010073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Textiles enhanced with thin-film flexible sensors are well-suited for unobtrusive monitoring of skin parameters due to the sensors' high conformability. These sensors can be damaged if they are attached to the surface of the textile, also affecting the textiles' aesthetics and feel. We investigate the effect of embedding flexible temperature sensors within textile yarns, which adds a layer of protection to the sensor. Industrial yarn manufacturing techniques including knit braiding, braiding, and double covering were utilised to identify an appropriate incorporation technique. The thermal time constants recorded by all three sensing yarns was <10 s. Simultaneously, effective sensitivity only decreased by a maximum of 14% compared to the uncovered sensor. This is due to the sensor being positioned within the yarn instead of being in direct contact with the measured surface. These sensor yarns were not affected by bending and produced repeatable measurements. The double covering method was observed to have the least impact on the sensors' performance due to the yarn's smaller dimensions. Finally, a sensing yarn was incorporated in an armband and used to measure changes in skin temperature. The demonstrated textile integration techniques for flexible sensors using industrial yarn manufacturing processes enable large-scale smart textile fabrication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasindu Lugoda
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Julio C. Costa
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Carlos Oliveira
- Advanced Textiles Research Group, Nottingham Trent University Nottingham NG1 4GG, UK; (C.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Leonardo A. Garcia-Garcia
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Sanjula D. Wickramasinghe
- Stretchline (Zhongshan) Limited, Goldenbell Section, Fu Zhong Lu, Shunjing Industrial Park, Banfu Town, Zhongshan City 528459, China;
| | - Arash Pouryazdan
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Daniel Roggen
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Tilak Dias
- Advanced Textiles Research Group, Nottingham Trent University Nottingham NG1 4GG, UK; (C.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Niko Münzenrieder
- Sensor Technology Research Centre, University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QT, UK; (J.C.C.); (L.A.G.-G.); (A.P.); (D.R.); (N.M.)
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39100 Bozen, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang K, Isaia B, Brown LJE, Beeby S. E-Textiles for Healthy Ageing. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E4463. [PMID: 31618875 PMCID: PMC6832571 DOI: 10.3390/s19204463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The ageing population has grown quickly in the last half century with increased longevity and declining birth rate. This presents challenges to health services and the wider society. This review paper considers different aspects (e.g., physical, mental, and social well-being) of healthy ageing and how health devices can help people to monitor health conditions, treat diseases and promote social interactions. Existing technologies for addressing non-physical (e.g., Alzheimer's, loneliness) and physical (e.g., stroke, bedsores, and fall) related challenges are presented together with the drivers and constraints of using e-textiles for these applications. E-textiles provide a platform that enables unobtrusive and ubiquitous deployment of sensors and actuators for healthy ageing applications. However, constraints remain on battery, integration, data accuracy, manufacturing, durability, ethics/privacy issues, and regulations. These challenges can only effectively be met by interdisciplinary teams sharing expertise and methods, and involving end users and other key stakeholders at an early stage in the research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yang
- Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Beckie Isaia
- Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Laura J E Brown
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Steve Beeby
- Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zuluaga-Gomez J, Zerhouni N, Al Masry Z, Devalland C, Varnier C. A survey of breast cancer screening techniques: thermography and electrical impedance tomography. J Med Eng Technol 2019; 43:305-322. [DOI: 10.1080/03091902.2019.1664672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Zuluaga-Gomez
- FEMTO-ST Institute, University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, ENSMM, Besançon, France
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Oviedo, Gijon, Spain
- Universidad Autonoma Del Caribe, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - N. Zerhouni
- FEMTO-ST Institute, University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, ENSMM, Besançon, France
| | - Z. Al Masry
- FEMTO-ST Institute, University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, ENSMM, Besançon, France
| | - C. Devalland
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Nord Franche-Comte, Belfort, France
| | - C. Varnier
- FEMTO-ST Institute, University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, ENSMM, Besançon, France
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Flexible sensors have the potential to be seamlessly applied to soft and irregularly shaped surfaces such as the human skin or textile fabrics. This benefits conformability dependant applications including smart tattoos, artificial skins and soft robotics. Consequently, materials and structures for innovative flexible sensors, as well as their integration into systems, continue to be in the spotlight of research. This review outlines the current state of flexible sensor technologies and the impact of material developments on this field. Special attention is given to strain, temperature, chemical, light and electropotential sensors, as well as their respective applications.
Collapse
|
15
|
Martín-Vaquero J, Hernández Encinas A, Queiruga-Dios A, José Bullón J, Martínez-Nova A, Torreblanca González J, Bullón-Carbajo C. Review on Wearables to Monitor Foot Temperature in Diabetic Patients. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E776. [PMID: 30769799 PMCID: PMC6412611 DOI: 10.3390/s19040776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
One of the diseases that could affect diabetic patients is the diabetic foot problem. Unnoticed minor injuries and subsequent infection can lead to ischemic ulceration, and may end in a foot amputation. Preliminary studies have shown that there is a positive relationship between increased skin temperature and the pre⁻ulceration phase. Hence, we have carried out a review on wearables, medical devices, and sensors used specifically for collecting vital data. In particular, we are interested in the measure of the foot⁻temperature. Since there is a large amount of this type of medical wearables, we will focus on those used to measure temperature and developed in Spain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martín-Vaquero
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Salamanca, E37008 Salamanca, Spain.
- ETSII Béjar, E37700 Béjar, Spain.
| | | | - Araceli Queiruga-Dios
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Salamanca, E37008 Salamanca, Spain.
- ETSII Béjar, E37700 Béjar, Spain.
| | - Juan José Bullón
- Department of Chemical and Textile Engineering, University of Salamanca, E37008 Salamanca, Spain.
- ETSII Béjar, E37700 Béjar, Spain.
| | - Alfonso Martínez-Nova
- Department of Nursing, University of Extremadura, E06006 Badajoz, Spain.
- Centro Universitario de Plasencia, E10600 Plasencia, Spain.
| | - Jose Torreblanca González
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Salamanca, E37008 Salamanca, Spain.
- ETSII Béjar, E37700 Béjar, Spain.
| | - Cristina Bullón-Carbajo
- Department of Nursing, University of Extremadura, E06006 Badajoz, Spain.
- Centro Universitario de Plasencia, E10600 Plasencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
A Novel Method for Embedding Semiconductor Dies within Textile Yarn to Create Electronic Textiles. FIBERS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/fib7020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Electronic yarns (E-yarns) contain electronics fully incorporated into the yarn’s structure prior to textile or garment production. They consist of a conductive core made from a flexible, multi-strand copper wire onto which semiconductor dies or MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) are soldered. The device and solder joints are then encapsulated within a resin micro-pod, which is subsequently surrounded by a textile sheath, which also covers the copper wires. The encapsulation of semiconductor dies or MEMS devices within the resin polymer micro-pod is a critical component of the fabrication process, as the micro-pod protects the dies from mechanical and chemical stresses, and hermetically seals the device, which makes the E-yarn washable. The process of manufacturing E-yarns requires automation to increase production speeds and to ensure consistency of the micro-pod structure. The design and development of a semi-automated encapsulation unit used to fabricate the micro-pods is presented here. The micro-pods were made from a ultra-violet (UV) curable polymer resin. This work details the choice of machinery and methods to create a semi-automated encapsulation system in which incoming dies were detected then covered in resin micro-pods. The system detected incoming 0402 metric package dies with an accuracy of 87 to 98%.
Collapse
|
17
|
Towards The Internet-of-Smart-Clothing: A Review on IoT Wearables and Garments for Creating Intelligent Connected E-Textiles. ELECTRONICS 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/electronics7120405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Technology has become ubiquitous, it is all around us and is becoming part of us. Together with the rise of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) paradigm and enabling technologies (e.g., Augmented Reality (AR), Cyber-Physical Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain or edge computing), smart wearables and IoT-based garments can potentially have a lot of influence by harmonizing functionality and the delight created by fashion. Thus, smart clothes look for a balance among fashion, engineering, interaction, user experience, cybersecurity, design and science to reinvent technologies that can anticipate needs and desires. Nowadays, the rapid convergence of textile and electronics is enabling the seamless and massive integration of sensors into textiles and the development of conductive yarn. The potential of smart fabrics, which can communicate with smartphones to process biometric information such as heart rate, temperature, breathing, stress, movement, acceleration, or even hormone levels, promises a new era for retail. This article reviews the main requirements for developing smart IoT-enabled garments and shows smart clothing potential impact on business models in the medium-term. Specifically, a global IoT architecture is proposed, the main types and components of smart IoT wearables and garments are presented, their main requirements are analyzed and some of the most recent smart clothing applications are studied. In this way, this article reviews the past and present of smart garments in order to provide guidelines for the future developers of a network where garments will be connected like other IoT objects: the Internet-of-Smart-Clothing.
Collapse
|