Smart textiles—used in health monitoring, wearable tech, and interactive clothing—need to connect easily and reliably to electronic devices. Existing connectors like snaps, pogo pins, zippers, or Velcro often have major drawbacks: they’re bulky, uncomfortable, hard to wash, or not flexible enough for everyday clothing. They can damage fabric, fall off easily, or fail to support multiple data and power connections at once.
Core Features of the Invention
This invention introduces a multi-point connector designed specifically for smart fabrics. It’s made from flexible materials like cloth or leather and uses at least one button or wireless connection to link electronic components—such as sensors, processors, or batteries—to transmission lines embedded in the fabric. The connector is washable, comfortable, compact, and can handle dozens or even hundreds of connections at once. It also uses hot melt adhesive films to secure and insulate the system without harmful glues or bulky plastics.
Inventive Step (What’s New)
Unlike existing connectors that are rigid or hard to integrate, this connector blends seamlessly with soft materials and uses radial wiring and modular assembly. It allows components to be made separately and easily replaced—you don’t have to throw away the whole garment if one piece breaks. It can be connected without soldering, using sewing, printing, or gluing, and can be either wired or wireless.
Benefits
- Easy to manufacture with standard textile equipment
- Comfortable to wear and safe for the skin
- Removable and replaceable components reduce waste
- Resistant to washing, bending, and stretching
- Built-in backup circuits for added safety
Broader Impact
This innovation could accelerate the use of smart textiles in healthcare, sports, fashion, and consumer electronics, helping create more sustainable, repairable, and user-friendly wearable tech.