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Digitally-embroidered liquid metal electronic textiles for wearable wireless systems
Rongzhou Lin1, Han-Joon Kim2, Sippanat Achavananthadith2
1Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
Nature Communications
|April 22, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed electronic textiles using liquid metal fibers for health monitoring. This washable shirt wirelessly powers and senses body temperature, even during exercise.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Wearable Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electronic textiles offer non-intrusive health monitoring but face challenges in material durability and performance.
- Existing materials struggle with the mechanical, thermal, and chemical stresses of daily wear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create robust electronic textile systems for powering and communication using novel materials.
- To overcome limitations in flexibility, durability, and electronic performance for integrated clothing electronics.
Main Methods:
- Digital embroidery of liquid metal fibers to create electronic textile systems.
- Fabrication of electronic textiles with optimized electromagnetic patterns for wireless connectivity.
- Integration of sensing capabilities for continuous physiological monitoring.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated electronic textiles with near-field powering and communication functionalities.
- Achieved robust wireless connectivity and body conformity using liquid metal fibers.
- Developed a washable electronic shirt capable of wireless powering and axillary temperature monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Liquid metal fiber embroidery provides a viable method for creating durable and functional electronic textiles.
- These systems enable seamless, non-intrusive health monitoring integrated into daily life.
- The technology holds promise for advanced wearable health solutions and smart clothing applications.
