Researchers from Canada’s Université Laval’s faculty of science and engineering and center for optics, photonics, and lasers have developed smart textiles that can monitor and transmit the wearers’ biomedical information via wireless or cellular networks.
According to study by the research team led by Professor Younis Messaddeq, the Canadian university has managed to produce a fibre and incorporate a textile. The fibre acts both as a sensor and as an antenna, whose surface can be modified so that it captures information on glucose levels, heart rate, brain activity, movements, spatial coordinates or something. Each fibre would be a function of its own, the report says.
Professor Messaddeq, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Photonic Innovations, said that the smart fabric was created by successfully superimposing multiple layers of copper, polymers, glass, and silver. The fabric is durable but malleable, and can be woven with wool or cotton.
The researchers have filed a patent application, though certain elements still need to be fine-tuned before the innovation is ready for commercialization, he informed.
Professor Messaddeq said the technology will have to be connected to a wireless network, and there is the issue of power supply to be solved. The researchers have tested a number of solutions, and the results are promising. They also have to make sure the fabric is robust, and can stand up to chemicals found in laundry detergent.
The dress collection made with this fabric can be used for people with diabetes, heart problems, epilepsy or Alzheimer, elderly people living alone or even fire fighters or soldiers in service. (GK)
