Programmable Weaving for E-Textiles
Last month, an article was published by Forbes. The article touched on a new smart textile manufacturing method called “programmable weaving.” This new method will, supposedly, allow for easier, more free form manufacturing. But, what is it exactly and what does it mean for the future of e-textiles?
The current issue with manufacturing e-textiles is that large-scale manufacturing is very difficult to do. There are so many components and elements, and most systems need to be tailor-made to an application. This first-of-its-kind, fully automated process can weave multiple e-textile components and fiber devices into a single layer of fabric. It is certainly game-changing, but might be too good to be true.
For this method to be effective, fiber photodetectors, fiber super capacitators, fiber transistors, and fiber LEDs must be used. This, essentially, renders all other components used in current e-textiles useless. Think of it this way: this is an entirely new method of producing e-textiles, so it requires compatible components to work. To make fiber components that perform at the level needed is a challenge, as well. And, depending on how intricate the weave is, taking apart a woven textile for troubleshooting is complicated. There are a lot of potential headaches at stake here, unfortunately.
Another factor that must be considered is potential damage to components during weaving. If the reed is moving at a higher speed, more stress is applied on the components—and irreversible damage can occur. Most industrial weaving machines operate at high speeds for quick-turn production. So, while this method may seem to make producing e-textile quicker—it may not make much of a difference if a lower power machine is used.
There were a couple impressive findings in this study, however. Water resistance was tested, and it was found that all fiber devices showed no noticeable performance change. Additionally, the devices were stored in air for six months and no noticeable degradation was detected.
While we certainly agree with the researchers that this is an “important step in textile engineering,” we do feel that this method is very complicated and will be a challenge to bring to market. It may seem, at the surface, like this will streamline production of e-textile systems. However, it is crucial to consider the potential for errors and how they may not be easily remedied. For example, say a client uses this woven e-textile in a shirt, and the components stop working. Will the entire weave need to be deconstructed in order to fix the problem? At that point, the garment is completely damaged and will need to be remade. There is a waste factor here that is of concern, as well. The industry is trying to make the production and use of e-textiles more sustainable, and disposing of a whole system just to remake it again will undoubtedly produce electronic waste.
We are all for innovation here at Loomia, and are very happy to see that people are thinking in new ways. However, there comes a time when we need to look at the practicality of a method and if it will really benefit the industry. To this idea we say: keep working on it!
Give these other articles a read!
Do e-textiles contribute to electronic waste?
What Are Flexible Electronics?
Electronics Textiles: An Ingredient for Impactful Innovation