Ah those crafty Buckeyes. Researchers at Ohio State have been conducting some scientific tomfoolery in the world of embeddable antennae. You knew I was going to say that, didn’t you?
The researchers are trying to input an omnidirectional antenna in your shirt antenna to boost radio reception. It works by using a computer controller the size of a deck of cards clipped to the wearers belt, The system senses body movement and activates the appropriate antenna to get the best signal. Of course, this depends on the user actually wanting a better signal. I prefer my signals paltry at best.
This is, again, just a concept design. It’s not like you can go into the Gap and get antenna-enhanced clothing. Sigh. One day.
Posted in: Concept Design, Textiles, Wearable Tech
Researchers at North Carolina State University have almost prepped the “holy grail” of wearable tech, conductive nanocoating. This technology, once mastered, could turn any article of clothing into just about any gadget imaginable. The future is almost here my friends.
The researchers are developing a technique called atomic layer deposition, which grows an inorganic coating atop cloths like woven cotton. The treated fabric conducts electricity, opening the door to thin, wearable devices with the flexibility of everyday clothing. Sign me up!
The technology, of course, is in the very early stages, so don’t be getting too excited. However, it does bode well for a future where wearable tech is as commonplace as regular ole cotton is now. Who knows, maybe we’ll have to change this website’s name to Wear.com.
Posted in: Concept Design, Textiles, Wearable Computing
We all love dresses that light up. You know it. I know it. Charlie Bucket knows it. That’s why the famous designer has concocted the Fluid Dress. This dress is composed of more than 600 feet of tube lighting, make it the brightest dress on the runway, driveway or wherever it is you’d wear this thing.
The oddest design choice comes with the power source. It takes a lot of power to keep 600 feet of knitted tubing lit up, so you have to literally wear the power source. This comes in the form of a backpack, which can be seen standing behind the dress. Just be sure not to cross the streams, though.
In all seriousness though, this thing is knit beautifully and would make the right gal(Or crossdresser, no hatin’) ..read more
Posted in: Dress, LED, Runway, Textile Circuit, Textiles, Wearable Tech
Cute Circuit has its Galaxy Dress on display aat the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. This dazzling dress features 24,000 LEDs and is a truly stunning piece of tech clothing. The dress is made with 2mm by 2mm LEDs woven into a silk chiffon and organza crinoline fabrics. This makes the dress more flowing and wearable. Power comes from several iPod batteries that are hidden into the garment itself. This is perhaps the most tasteful LED garment to date.
It is common for tech companies to hire promotional modeling professionals when launching a new gadget or product.
Posted in: Concept Design, CuteCircuit, Dress, LED, Runway, Tech Clothing Industry, Textiles
Dots Gloves makes a whole lot of cool gloves. These cool knit gloves are used to be able to register on touch screens with out removing the glove. They come in left or right handed and are usable with resistive and other models with capacitive screens (iPhone users can rejoice). This version is for resistive touch and have rounded metal tips that wont scratch your screen. Really cool for $10.00.
Posted in: Button/Switch, Dots Gloves, Gloves, Mobile Phone Integration, Mobile Phone Technology, Tech Clothing Industry, Textiles, Texture Replacement, iPod Fashion
The Thanko Spy Necktie is an espionage tool that every real spy needs. This sexy tie has a built in video recorder and a tiny remote. It is mated with a 4GB USB flash to provide easy transfers to your spy laptop. So start saving $128.00, and get yours.
Posted in: Camera, Necktie, Textiles, Thanko
QIO Systems is now offering textile touch pads for fashion fabricators. Using Elektex and SOFTswitch technology, and is completely fabric. That means that it can be washed and dry cleaned. Even though it is washable, it is rated at up to 100,000 keypresses.
Next to the fabric keypad QIO Systems offers a wide range of electronic modules with control functions for the iPod, Bluetooth cell phones, wearable radio, Push-to-talk solutions and complete solution for integrated heating and integrated lighting into garments and soft goods.
Posted in: Bluetooth, Button/Switch, Components, DIY - Corner, Do-It-Yourself Industry Leaders, ElekTex Smart Fabric, Mobile Phone Integration, QIO Systems, Super Smart Fabrics, Tech Clothing Industry, Textile Circuit, Textile Switch, Textiles, Two Way Radio, Waterproof, Wearable Computing, iPhone Integration, iPod Integration
Celio comes out of the gate with this trendy tech suit. The Celio Club Suit is an iPod enabled suit using QIO Systems SOFTSwitch. The controls are inside the breast of the suit and and the dock is discretely located. For $277.00 you can get the jacket alone or add $92.70 for the matching pants. Fancy.
Posted in: Button/Switch, Celio, ElekTex Smart Fabric, Eleksen, QIO Systems, Suit, Textiles, iPhone Integration, iPod Fashion, iPod Integration
Noon Solar is back with the new Augusta line of solar bags. This bag comes in Ivory, Midnight and Rust colors. The Augusta model has a two sided design allowing the solar panel to face the sun or your body. It comes with a front pocket that tabs down with collar studs, one 10″ divider pocket, 2 interior zipper pockets – 1 for lithium-ion storage battery and electronics, and antiqued brass hardware.
The bags come with power bank, all the essential standard cable and cable plugs specific for our devices which you have to indicate during checkout. With these bags you are ready to start saving the planet and benefit from free electricity. They are made of Bavarian, chrome-free, vegetable tanned and dyed, full-grain cowhide leather, hand dyed hemp/cotton fabric with ..read more
Posted in: Bags, Noon Solar, Solar Fashion, Solar Power, Textiles
Zenga adds to it’s tech clothing line with the Freeway Jacket. This jacket features water resistant, breathable fabric. The leather and neoprene details lend to its urban look. The LEDs are located on the collar and provide safety. Look for this item to hit stores soon.
Posted in: Jacket, LED, Lighting, Safety, Textiles, Water Resistant, Zegna
