Google files patent for smart fabric
07/10/2016
Sportstextiles.com reported earlier this year that Google has partnered with denim company Levi Strauss & Co to create a smart denim jacket as part of its Jacquard Project. The Commuter Trucker jacket is targeted at urban bike commuters.
Google’s Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) team weaved conductive yarn and tiny circuits into the fabric to produce tough-sensitive surfaces. This allows touch-based hand gestures to control devices or carry out pre-determined functions.
According to the patent application, the interactive textile consists of two layers, which are configure to form a “capacitive touch sensor”, which is combined with a textile controlled that can detect input via sensors. The data from this input can be used to control devices wirelessly.
The new fabric is suitable for use in a variety of garments, including jackets, caps and shirts. It will allow wearers to answer calls, control volume levels of music or change song track without touching their smartphone.
Image courtesy of Google.
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