Finnish researchers develop temperature control for smart clothing
17/03/2016
The VTT technology is able to calculate whether the wearer needs to be cooled or warmed based on data measured from the person and the environment.
Individual thermal sensations are caused by differences in body composition.
As well as use in sportswear, VTT suggests it could be useful for surgical gowns.
Principal Scientist Pekka Tuomaala said: "Hospital patients have been asked about their most unpleasant experience, and the most common answer is feeling cold – pain comes second.”
A smart blanket can a patient’s ambient temperature and adjust the temperature to meet his or her needs.
The Taiwan Textile Research Institute has tested VTT's methods in designing clothing for long-distance runners in different temperatures. The technology can also be used when developing solutions for the recovery after a sporting event.
"VTT is now looking for companies to join in the development of this technology for the market. We have extensive technological know-how, for example in fibre technology and functional clothing,” added Ms Tuomaala.
Share this story:
