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In a new study, North Carolina State University researchers demonstrated they could print layers of electrically conductive ink on polyester fabric to make an e-textile that could be used in the design of future wearable devices.
Since the printing method can be completed at room temperature and in normal atmospheric conditions, researchers believe inkjet printing could offer a simpler and more effective method of manufacturing electronic textiles, also known as e-textiles. In addition, researchers said the findings suggest they could extend techniques common in the flexible electronic industry to textile manufacturing. They reported their findings in the journal
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.
Researchers have taken a step forward in developing a new armband that can track the heart’s electrical activity without requiring bulky wiring or sticky gel on the skin.
Specifically, they determined the ideal placement for three electrodes in the band design, and how tightly the band needs to be to best detect electrical signals from the heart.
The findings are the latest advance in a multi-institutional effort to develop an armband that takes electrocardiogram, or ECG, measurements in order to track heart rate. Researchers ultimately envision a device that could be worn as an arm sleeve throughout the day. Energy from body heat or movement would supply the power.