A team at Nottingham Trent University's Medical Technologies Innovation Facility has made significant strides in the development of a new generation of electronic devices that could revolutionize the fields of healthcare and elite sports. Led by researchers at the facility, in collaboration with industry partner Kymira Ltd, the groundbreaking work has opened up possibilities for embedding electronic devices in clothing.
The research, recently published in Scientific Reports, highlights the innovative nature of the new electronic strip. Unlike existing technologies, this strip boasts enhanced flexibility and functionality, allowing it to stretch and bend seamlessly with the body's movements. Its unique 3D structure, designed as a helical ribbon, enables it to stretch in multiple directions and bend without constraints, making it ideal for applications in various settings.
One of the key advantages of this new electronic strip is its stretchability, a crucial feature for applications in fields such as medical wearables and sports gear. The ability of the strip to stretch up to at least half its original size ensures that it can adapt to the wearer's movements without restricting mobility. This flexibility is essential for garments like medical compression wear and sportswear, where freedom of movement is paramount.
As part of the study, the researchers successfully demonstrated the functionality of LED and temperature sensing helical e-strips. To ensure durability and practicality, a rubber cord was incorporated into the design to provide structural support and prevent damage from buckling. Moreover, considerations were made regarding the strip's compatibility with clothing and its washability, making it a viable option for integration into various textile products.
Dr. Yang Wei, an expert in electronic textiles and electronic engineering at Nottingham Trent University and the principal investigator of the research, expressed optimism about the potential of this new technology. "We have been able to show the potential for a new form of 3D helical strip for embedded electronics in e-textiles," Dr. Wei stated, emphasizing the transformative impact this innovation could have on the future of wearable electronics.