Scientists have yet to be the targets of TMZ cameras for their avant-garde fashion statements. Nevertheless, in the world of technology, new “Fabric Circuit Boards” may become all the rage.
Most digital devices made today use PCBs – printed circuit boards – while wearable technology is yet limited to smartwatches and Google Glass. However, researchers Qiao Li and Xiao Ming Tao in Hong Kong are now boasting of wiring sewn into elastic yarn and polyurethane-coated copper fibers in a new engineering publication. Using a computerized knitting machine, the fabric’s comfort and malleability are the most advanced yet. Shirts using this technology are already being used by the ball-boys at championship tennis matches.
Testing of the material has included washing it, machine-stress tests, and even shooting the FCB. The fabric experienced minimal loss of conductivity after extreme wear as well as machine washing and drying. Integrated with a Kevlar vest, the FCB even showed solid performance after being shot with bullets! Naturally, law enforcement and military applications should be expected to take this technology to the next level. Imagine remotely sending vital signs, 24/7, of soldiers on the battlefield, or tracking an officer who has been shot in the line of duty and needs assistance. This could be a life-saver a million times over.
A few other possible applications come to mind, as well. What about zoological research? Sew a comfortable vest for an animal that’s usually otherwise impossible to track in the wild – especially at high altitudes or extreme ocean-depths – and let it go about normal life while sending data back to a receiver. One day we might be able to predict earthquakes or send early warning signals of tsunamis or volcanic eruptions.
In health care, too, we might be able to restore vital signs in patients in a hospital before a nurse or doctor gets to the room. Perhaps we could prevent SIDS – a baby wearing pajamas that detect vital signs could alert parents before tragedy strikes.
I also wonder if the FCB can be integrated with photo-voltaic panels. Your cowboy hat could be reinvented to unknown dimensions. Mixed with open-source programmability, the options are nearly limitless.
Marketability of this fabric technology will be dependent on the usual suspects – mass production at low costs, fashionability, and durability in the washer and dryer. It’s got to pass the smell test, after all.
One thing is for sure. The next generation of Cosby sweaters will be the best ones yet.
