Fabrics and Garments as Sensors: A Research Update

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Research on fabric sensors for human interaction often overlooks critical apparel and fabric properties like thermal/moisture transfer, elasticity, and durability.
• Existing research has quantified performance measures such as electrical conductivity, impedance, and capacitance.
• The dynamic nature of the apparel/human body system requires consideration of transient conditions for accurate performance assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and highlight research gaps concerning fabric-related aspects in functionalized apparel.
• To provide insights for increasing the inclusion of essential fabric properties in sensor research.
• To emphasize the importance of fabric characteristics for the successful integration of sensors into clothing.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on fabric sensors and their interaction with the human body.
• Analysis of existing research to identify overlooked fabric properties and performance considerations.
• Synthesis of information to propose a path forward for functionalized apparel development.

Main Results:

• Key structural (thermal/moisture transfer, elasticity, flexural rigidity) and performance (durability, cleaning, storage) properties are inconsistently addressed.
• Environmental effects on fabric sensors are also an under-researched area.
• The transient nature of the apparel/human body system is a critical factor for sensor performance not consistently considered.

Conclusions:

• Widespread adoption of functionalized fabrics requires addressing fabric properties to ensure they are acceptable for apparel use.
• A multidisciplinary approach involving chemistry, electronics, textiles, and standard test methods is essential.
• Integrating fabric-specific considerations and end-use requirements is key to advancing wearable sensor technology.