A collaboration between scientists from the University of Bristol and the University of Bath has led to the development of a new technology called ‘SeamSleeve’ that can capture and record body movements while creating clothes. This innovative technology involves adding conductive threads into the seams of garments, which produce electrical circuits that change resistance based on the movements of the wearer. By efficiently monitoring and analyzing physical activities, this wearable technology is designed to enhance exercise, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation.
The team presented this study at the Designing Interactive Systems (DIS) conference in Copenhagen, Denmark. The lead scientist behind this project, Professor Mike Fraser from the University of Bristol’s School of Computer Science, explained how the design of ‘SeamSleeve’ allows for movement sensing without requiring a separate power source. The seams are paired with a charging coil that draws energy wirelessly from a mobile phone placed in the pocket. When low voltage passes through the threads, they change resistance with the wearer’s movements, allowing the fabric to sense and record posture changes.
The recorded data is then transmitted to the wearer’s mobile phone for analysis. With advanced motion sensing garments produced using existing manufacturing processes, this technology is accessible and practical for everyone. Smartphone apps utilizing artificial intelligence techniques can use this movement data to match body movements with specific postures or gestures, such as physiotherapeutic exercises.
Overall, ‘SeamSleeve’ is an exciting development that could revolutionize how we approach fitness and rehabilitation by providing more accurate and efficient ways to track body movements.
