Smart clothing has evolved significantly in recent years, becoming more sophisticated in its integration of electronic components and connectivity. These garments, equipped with sensors and advanced textiles, serve to gather biometric and physical data from the wearer, such as heart rate and body temperature.

This data is then transmitted to associated smartphone apps via Bluetooth for user accessibility. The development of smart clothing involves the convergence of various technologies, including advanced fibres, 3D printing, power supply innovations, sensor durability enhancements, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).

Current trends in smart clothing technology

Here's an overview of the latest technology trends shaping the smart clothing landscape:

1. Advanced Fibers

Material science advancements have enabled the integration of various functionalities into textiles. Metallics, optical fibres, and conductive polymers are being incorporated into fabrics to enable sensory capabilities, electrical conductivity, and data transmission.

Textile companies are collaborating with tech firms to integrate these materials into a range of fabrics, including nylon, cotton, polyester, silk, wool, and Kevlar.

To enhance durability and maintain textile properties, fabrics are often coated with nanoparticles. These nanoparticles offer benefits such as increased durability, antibacterial properties, water repellence, and UV protection.

2. 3D Printing

3D printing technology is gaining traction in the apparel industry, particularly in the realm of smart clothing. Researchers and companies are utilising 3D printers to create intricate patterns and designs on fabrics, enabling the transformation of movement into energy.

Intel, for instance, has leveraged 3D printing to develop sensor-embedded smart clothing prototypes, paving the way for future innovations in textiles and wearable technology.

3. Power Supply Innovations

While lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in smart clothing, researchers are exploring alternative power sources to address the issue of frequent charging. Recent developments include the creation of nylon fibres capable of generating electricity from body movements.

Initiatives like Thermo Tex and the Smart2Go project, funded by the EU, are focused on developing thermoelectric textiles and autonomous energy supply platforms for wearables, respectively, aiming to overcome power supply constraints and enhance the practicality of smart clothing.

4. Enhanced Sensors

Sensors are integral to smart clothing, enabling users to monitor their health and fitness. Efforts are underway to develop sensors that can withstand multiple washes without compromising performance.

For instance, researchers at MIT have developed washable biosensors woven into garments for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, demonstrating progress in sensor durability and functionality.

5. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is increasingly being integrated into smart clothing applications, particularly in virtual fitness coaching systems. Start-ups like Sensoria offer AI-based coaching apps that analyse garment-generated data to provide personalised feedback and guidance for improving athletic performance.

Similarly, collaborations between tech giants like Google and apparel companies have led to the integration of AI assistants into garments, allowing users to access information and perform tasks through simple gestures.

Looking ahead, AI is expected to play a pivotal role in the further development of smart clothing, particularly in product design, service development, and data analysis. Companies with expertise in AI, such as Google, IBM, and Amazon, are poised to lead this evolution in wearable technology.

As technology continues to advance, smart clothing holds the promise of revolutionising various industries, from healthcare and fitness to fashion and beyond. With ongoing innovation and collaboration, the future of wearable technology looks increasingly intelligent and interconnected.