The innovative technologies of the twenty-first century have begun to reshape the production and design of textile products. The current consumption culture has accelerated the dynamism of continuous innovation and change in the textile sector. Technical textile technology, which has made significant improvements since 1980s, started to produce functional fabrics. Non-flammable and liquid-proof fabrics evolved from technical textiles, used as T-shirts applicable with mobile phones are no longer science fiction. A research project led by the University of Nottingham Trent in the UK can make future-oriented technology a reality. The University's Advanced Textile Research Group (ATRG) has received £ 1.3 million in donations to develop technology that will advance the world's first wearable technology.
Conductive Yarn Production is in Process
The project aims to create a production process to process complex electronic circuit into yarns on an industrial scale. The research group, which has pioneered technologies such as solar cell garments to charge mobile phones, will develop the process of creating conductive yarns (or E-yarns) over the next three years.
Not Noticeable From The Outside
‘’This project will allow us to make a quantum leap to see wearable E-textiles in the open market’’, said Professor Tilak Dias, who leads ATRG at the University's School of Art and Design. Complex E-thread circuits that cannot be detected by any user will allow the development of wearable electronics to be as sophisticated as the computer. In the future, it may mean that your T-shirt or jacket can be used as a mobile phone and that your collar may be compatible to talk. But with the naked eye, it will look like another garment, and none of the technology will be felt by the user. With the technology processed on these yarns, your heart rate can be used as a means of communication that can monitor your oxygen levels in the blood and there will be many features. ”
Revolution In Textile Industry
‘’They can be used in many sectors, including medicine, defense, aerospace, performance sports, automotive, and fashion’’ said, Will Hurley, stating that e-yarns have the potential to revolutionize the textile industry and textile-based industries. Although there are many more steps to be taken, this project is an important development that will play a major role in making science fiction a reality.
