Detecting bends and fabric folds using stitched sensors

Guido Gioberto, James Coughlin, Kaila Bibeau, Lucy E Dunne

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

35 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper we describe a novel method for detecting bends and folds in fabric structures. Bending and folding can be used to detect human joint angles directly, or to detect possible errors in the signals of other joint-movement sensors due to fabric folding. Detection is achieved through measuring changes in the resistance of a complex stitch, formed by an industrial coverstitch machine using an uninsulated conductive yarn, on the surface of the fabric. We evaluate self-intersecting folds which cause short-circuits in the sensor, creating a quasi-binary resistance response, and non-contact bends, which deform the stitch structure and result in a more linear response. Folds and bends created by human movement were measured on the dorsal and lateral knee of both a robotic mannequin and a human. Preliminary results are promising. Both dorsal and lateral stitches showed repeatable characteristics during testing on a mechanical mannequin and a human.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationISWC 2013 - Proceedings of the 2013 ACM International Symposium on Wearable Computers
Pages53-56
Number of pages4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013
Event2013 17th ACM International Symposium on Wearable Computers, ISWC 2013 - Zurich, Switzerland
Duration: Sep 9 2013Sep 12 2013

Publication series

NameISWC 2013 - Proceedings of the 2013 ACM International Symposium on Wearable Computers

Other

Other2013 17th ACM International Symposium on Wearable Computers, ISWC 2013
Country/TerritorySwitzerland
CityZurich
Period9/9/139/12/13

Keywords

  • E-textile
  • Smart clothing
  • Stitched sensor
  • Wearable sensor
  • Wearable technology

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