
Fibretronic introduced its latest innovation in wearable electronic accessories the Wearable Bluetooth module at Avantex 2007 in June and is now commercially available. The BT-MOD, as it is called, is a self-contained soft module for the hands-free operation of cellphones.
The wearable Bluetooth module incorporates a speaker, a microphone, call answer/hang-up button, speaker volume controls and a internal rechargeable battery which can be charged via a mini USB port.
This represents basically the standard functions of such BT hands-free devices except the addition of the speaker which allow you to either make phone calls without earplug or listen to music from your cellphone without the need of headphones plugged in all the time.
What makes the wearable Bluetooth module unique is the soft body with textile cover that gives the whole ..read more
Posted in: Bluetooth, Fibretronic, Mobile Phone Integration

The iPod enabled or shall we say enhanced bag collection is getting richer in diversity. Firebox.com offers the Voltage Backpack and Voltage Messenger bag with integrated iPod controls.Firebox is multi-channel retailer in UK who is specialized in the retail, marketing and manufacture of a range of new and innovative products. It’s a cool shopping site with lots of interesting stuff on offer.
The great looking iPod-optimized Voltage Backpack and Voltage Messenger bag is functioning as a iPod remote control via the stitched-in control panels that allow you to control your iPod . Adjust the volume, rewind, fast-forward and skip tracks without having to root around in your pockets or bags for your iPod.
Looking to the control elements in the shoulder straps, we see two different types. On the Voltage Backpack ..read more
Posted in: Backpack, Bags, Fibretronic, Voltage

Avantex and Techtextil 2007 will open its doors on June 11 for 4 days of highly interesting seminars and exhibitions on the future of clothing and textile innovation.
It is the second time those two events are held at the same time and the same place. Avantex target groups of designers and garment manufacturers, focuses on high-tech apparel textiles and presents developments ranging from the concept to the prototype stages. Techtextil is the world largest Trade Fair for Technical Textiles and Nonwovens.
This almost guaranties a highly charged atmosphere for participants from the industry and businesses but also for the visitors of the exhibitions.
Unlike the Smart Fabrics 2007 in May which was more focused on technologies, the Avantex 2007 is more about consumer presentation. Companies will show on the floor the latest ..read more
Posted in: Articles, CuteCircuit, Eleksen, Fibretronic, Interactive Wear AG, Trade Shows

Soft electronic technologies developer Fibretronic Limited has wearable electronics technologies all made possible by using the Fibretronic embedded textile device system.
Fibretronic uses several platform technologies to produce economical soft component systems. Fibretronic ETD (embedded textile devices) are created by embedding micro electronic devices within the structure of fabrics and textiles and soft films. The micro devices can be embedded singularly or as micro-PCBs within the textile structure. Proprietary bonding and moulding techniques allow these components to be permanently fixed within the structure without significantly affecting the over all feel of the fabrics.
The following functions are possible using these ETD component solutions; switching, sensing, lighting, power and signal transport, wireless technology matrices.
Fabric Keypads and Backlit Fabric Keypads
The Fibretronic backlit keypad system is the world’s first ..read more
Posted in: Button/Switch, Display, Fibretronic, Technologies, Textiles

You might not be very familiar with Reusch which entered the sports market for the first time in 1972 with a collection of specially designed winter gloves.Shortly after, Reusch developed in co-operation with German goalkeeper legend, Sepp Maier, the world’s first goalie’s glove featuring a latex palm.
Fast forward to 2006, Reusch has launched the ‘Sonic Control’ iPod enabled glove for sale in Fall/Winter 06/07.
The glove uses Fibretronic’s wireless rubberized keypad system integrated into the back of the hand along with an RF wireless transmitter located in specially designed waterproof pocket on the cuff of the glove.
Using an RF Receiver connected to the iPod, the commands from the keypad can be sent to the iPod remotely up to a distance of 18 metres without the necessity to be in ‘line ..read more
Posted in: Accessories, Fibretronic, Gloves, Reusch, iPod Fashion

It’s hard to have your iPod in your hand when you’re racing down the mountain slope with your snowboard and you want to change your tunes.Or just to be in the great winter outdoors by temperatures far below the zero degree (celsius) range. Using your stiff fingers on the scroll wheel might turn out a big challenge.
The last product in the H3 Wearable Electronic range Fall/Winter 2006/07 from O’Neill, the H3 Fat Controller Glove, is just the right gear to help you.
It uses Fibretonic’s wireless iPod control system, featuring a joystick controller stitched into the glove on the back of the hand. The control system is of course waterproof and will work in any situation. The joystick commands are sent wirelessly to the iPod which is stored safely in a ..read more
Posted in: Accessories, Fibretronic, Gloves, O’Neill, iPod Fashion

Fibretronic has announced the signing of a deal with Apple Computer securing entry into the ‘Made-for-iPod’ licensing program. This agreement enables Fibretronic to develop and market ready-to-integrate iPod control products for wearable electronics applications in garments, bags and other soft-goods.
Fibretronic’s customers will no longer have to obtain a license from Apple to sell iPod enabled products. Under the new license from Apple, Fibretronic is able to directly supply the required technology for iPod integration, shortening and simplifying the development and production pathway for its customers. Companies wishing to produce iPod controls in garments, bags, backpacks or other soft products can get all their iPod interface technology requirements using Fibretronic as a single source from development through to commercialization.
This indicates, Fibretronic is getting more active and aggressive after the Wearable ..read more
Posted in: Button/Switch, Fibretronic