Electrical connector for smart clothing

Abstract

An electrical connector system may be used to couple a smart garment sensor harness to a control component. Embodiments include a connector plug on a wire cable of a sensor harness and a connector socket on a control component. The connector plug includes a body that releasably mates with the receptacle of the connector socket. The connector plug and the connector socket are configured to prevent the connector plug from being removed from the connector socket in a direction in which the cable extends from the body of the connector plug.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 63 / 395,186, filed on August 4, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to electrical connectors. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to electrical connectors that can be incorporated into clothing, such as, for example, smart clothing. Background Art

[0003] Wearable electronic devices and smart clothing or garments are becoming increasingly popular. These smart garments, which include sensors and other electronic components, can be used to collect a wide range of information about the user wearing the garment. Examples of such information include physiological information, such as the wearer's pulse rate or oxygen saturation, and ergonomic or movement information.

[0004] However, there continues to be a need for improved smart clothing and associated components. In particular, there continues to be a need for smart clothing and components that are durable, easy to use, and can accurately provide information about the user. Summary of the invention

[0005] The connector according to the disclosed example can provide many advantages, especially when used in combination with smart clothing. For example, when engaged or connected, the components of the connector provide high-quality mechanical and electrical connections. The characteristics of the electrical connection include low resistance, and robust, continuous electrical coupling, even in the case of external forces or stresses on the connector during use, for example, there will be no electrical interruption or intermittent disconnection. The characteristics of the mechanical connection include a high resistance to the undesired mechanical separation or disconnection of the connector components. However, when the user needs, the connector components can be separated relatively easily. The connector components are resistant to dust, dirt and corrosion. At least the clothing side components of the connector are able to resist or prevent external materials and / or factors such as water, detergents or heat, so that the component (for example, when attached to clothing) can be washed, dried, or otherwise cared for with the clothing. The connector and its components can be configured to be small enough to be used in clothing without discomfort to the user, while being large enough to be relatively easy for the user to physically handle and manipulate. The embodiment is effectively designed to allow the components to be coupled in only one configuration, thereby minimizing incorrect coupling and any associated complexity. The connector and its components can be manufactured efficiently.

[0006] According to one example ("Example 1"), an electrical connector system includes: an electronic component, the electronic component including: a housing; a socket on the housing, the socket being defined by one or more socket walls and including at least a socket contact wall; one or more protrusions and / or one or more protrusion receiving features on at least one socket wall of the one or more socket walls; at least one first electrical contact on the socket contact wall; a connector plug, the connector plug being configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to the electronic component in a releasable manner, the connector plug including: a main body, the main body including a mating portion and one or more protrusions and / or one or more protrusion receiving features, wherein the mating portion of the main body is configured to mate with the socket of the electronic component along a coupling path and be engaged in a coupling position in which the mating portion faces the socket contact wall. The socket receives, and wherein each of the tab receiving features of the electronic component and the connector plug is configured to mate with one of the tabs of the electronic component and the connector plug; at least one second electrical contact on the mating portion, wherein each of the second electrical contacts is electrically coupled to one of the first electrical contacts when the mating portion of the body is in a coupled position in the socket; one or more wires, one or more wires extending from the body in a direction that is not parallel to the coupling path, wherein each of the one or more wires is electrically connected to one of the second electrical contacts; and wherein the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being removed from the electronic component in the direction in which the one or more wires extend from the body of the connector plug.

[0007] According to another example ("Example 2"), further to Example 1, the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent removal of the connector plug from the electronic component in all directions different from a direction of the coupling path.

[0008] According to another example ("Example 3"), further to Examples 1-2, wherein the housing includes a first outer wall; and the one or more receptacle walls define receptacles in the first outer wall of the housing.

[0009] According to another example (“Example 4”), further to the example, wherein the one or more socket walls are substantially perpendicular to the first outer wall of the housing.

[0010] According to another example ("Example 5"), further to any one of Examples 3-4, wherein the outer wall includes a second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at the edge of the shell; and one or more socket walls define sockets located in the first outer wall and the second outer wall and passing through the edge of the shell.

[0011] According to another example ("Example 6"), further to Example 5, the electronic component includes one or more protrusions on the housing; the second outer wall of the housing includes an opening having a first side edge and / or a second side edge; and each of the one or more protrusions on the housing extends into the opening of the second outer wall to partially define a socket.

[0012] According to another example ("Example 7"), further to any one of Examples 1-6, it also includes alignment features on one or more socket walls in the socket wall and the body of the connector plug, wherein the alignment features are configured to facilitate one-way mating of the mating portion of the body with the electronic component.

[0013] According to another example ("Example 8"), further in any one of Examples 1-7, it also includes a compression spring on one or both of the electronic component and the connector plug, for promoting coupling of the connector plug with the electronic component when the mating portion of the body is in the coupled position.

[0014] According to another example ("Example 9"), further to Example 8, the compression spring is located on the electronic component; and the connector plug does not have the compression spring.

[0015] According to another example ("Example 10"), further in any of Examples 1-9, wherein the mating portions of the socket and the body are substantially rectangular.

[0016] According to another example ("Example 11"), further to any of Examples 1-10, wherein the first electrical contact comprises a spring-loaded contact extending from the socket contact wall into the socket.

[0017] According to another example ("Example 12"), further in any of Examples 1-12, wherein the second electrical contact is fixedly mounted relative to the mating portion.

[0018] According to another example ("Example 13"), further to Example 12, wherein the second electrical contact includes a contact surface having an outer edge, and wherein the contact surface is substantially parallel to the mating portion.

[0019] According to another example ("Example 14"), further to Example 13, wherein a contact surface of the second electrical contact is flush with the mating portion.

[0020] According to another example ("Example 15"), further to Examples 12-14, an outer edge of the second electrical contact is engaged to the body of the mating portion without a gap therebetween.

[0021] According to another example ("Example 16"), further to Examples 1-15, the body of the connector plug also includes a molded portion extending from the mating portion, and wherein one or more wires extend from the connector plug at the molded portion of the body.

[0022] According to another example ("Example 17"), further to Example 16, wherein when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component, at least a portion of the overmold portion of the body is located outside of a housing of the electronic component.

[0023] According to another example ("Example 18"), further in any of Examples 16-17, wherein the mating portion and the overmold portion of the body define a 90 degree elbow shape.

[0024] According to another example ("Example 19"), further to Example 17, the housing of the electronic component includes a first outer wall and a second outer wall, the second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at the edge of the housing; one or more socket walls of the housing define sockets located in the first outer wall and the second outer wall and passing through the edge of the housing; and when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component, the overmolded portion of the body extends from the housing through the second outer wall of the housing.

[0025] According to another example (“Example 20”), further in any of Examples 1-19, the one or more wires extend at an angle of 45 degrees to 135 degrees relative to the direction of the coupling path.

[0026] According to another example ("Example 21"), further in any of Examples 1-20, wherein the mating portions of the contact wall and the body define a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of the coupling path.

[0027] According to another example ("Example 22"), further to any one of Examples 1-21, wherein one or more socket walls are substantially perpendicular to the first outer wall of the shell; and the shell bottom wall is substantially parallel to the first outer wall of the shell.

[0028] According to another example ("Example 23"), further to any one of Examples 1-22, wherein the connector plug includes a support member, and wherein the second electrical contact is mounted to the support member; and the connector plug includes: a first polymer member; a second polymer member joined to the first polymer member, the support member being sealed between the first polymer member and the second polymer member; and an overmold portion is sealingly connected to at least a portion of the first polymer member and the second polymer member and extends over at least a portion, and wherein a portion of the cable extends from the overmold portion.

[0029] According to another example ("Example 24"), further in any of Examples 1-23, one or both of the electronic component and the plug connector are configured to be water resistant and suitable for repeated machine washing.

[0030] According to another example ("Example 25"), further to any of Examples 1-24, the electronic component includes one or more of a controller, a sensor, a transmitter, or a receiver located in the housing and coupled to the first electrical contact.

[0031] According to another example ("Example 26"), further to any one of Examples 1-25, further including a wiring harness, the wiring harness including one or more sensors, the wiring harness optionally including one or more of an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor coupled to multiple wires, and wherein the wiring harness is configured to attach to clothing.

[0032] According to another example ("Example 27"), further to Example 26, also including a garment, and wherein the harness is attached to the garment.

[0033] According to another example ("Example 28"), further to any of Examples 1-27, wherein the one or more wires include a cable, the cable includes a plurality of wires, and wherein each of the wires is coupled to one of the second electrical contacts.

[0034] The above examples are limited to this and should not be construed as limiting or otherwise narrowing the scope of any inventive concept otherwise provided by the present invention. Although multiple examples are disclosed, other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes exemplary examples. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive in nature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0036] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic diagrams of the front and back sides of smart clothing according to embodiments.

[0037] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Schematic diagrams of the interior and exterior, respectively, of a portion of a smart garment according to an embodiment, the portion comprising a pocket for receiving an electronic component.

[0038] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a sensor harness of a smart garment according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a smart garment including a tunnel structure for attaching a sensor harness to the garment according to an embodiment.

[0040] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a snap fastener structure and portions of a sensor harness that may be used to attach the sensor harness to a garment, according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 6 is an isometric illustration of electronic components including connector sockets that may be used with smart clothing, according to an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 7 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a sensor harness including a connector plug that may be used with smart clothing according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 8 is an isometric illustration of a connector plug mechanically and electrically coupled to a connector socket of an electronic component according to an embodiment.

[0044] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device (electronic) incorporated into an electronic component according to an embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B 2 are diagrams of the front and back sides of a smart garment according to an embodiment, respectively.

[0046] Fig.11 is a detailed illustration of a portion of a smart garment including a tunnel for receiving electronic components according to an embodiment. Specific implementation plan

[0047] The disclosures of all cited patent and non-patent literature are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0048] As used herein, the terms "embodiment" or "disclosure" are not limiting, but apply generally to any embodiment described in the claims or otherwise herein. These terms are used interchangeably herein.

[0049] Unless disclosed otherwise, the terms "a" and "an" as used herein are intended to cover one or more (ie, at least one) of the referenced features.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will more easily understand the features and advantages of the present disclosure by reading the following specific embodiments. It should be appreciated that, for the sake of clarity, certain features of the present disclosure described above and below in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, for the sake of brevity, the various features of the current disclosure described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided individually or in any sub-combination. In addition, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, references to the singular may also include the plural (e.g., "a" and "an" may refer to one or more).

[0051] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the use of numerical values ​​in the various ranges specified in this application are expressed as approximate values, as if the minimum and maximum values ​​in the range were preceded by the word "about". In this way, slight variations above and below the ranges can be used to achieve substantially the same results as the values ​​within the ranges. In addition, the disclosure of these ranges is intended to represent a continuous range that includes every value between the minimum and maximum values. Description of various embodiments

[0052] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the various aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented by any number of methods and devices configured to perform the intended functions. It should also be noted that the drawings referred to in the present disclosure are not necessarily drawn to scale, but may be exaggerated to illustrate the various aspects of the present disclosure, and in this regard, the drawings should not be interpreted as limiting.

[0053] Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe front and back sides of an exemplary smart clothing 10 according to an embodiment are illustrated respectively. The smart clothing 10 includes clothing 12 and a sensor harness 14. As described in more detail below, the sensor harness 14 includes an attachment structure 16, which is configured to receive an electronic component 18 that can be coupled to the sensor harness 14 and hold or attach it to the clothing. The attachment structure 16 is configured to receive the electronic component 18 in a releasable manner to facilitate attaching the electronic component to the clothing and removing the electronic component from the clothing. The electronic component 18 is configured to be coupled to the sensor harness 14 in a releasable manner to facilitate electrical and mechanical connection between the electronic component and the sensor harness, and also to facilitate disconnecting the electronic component from the sensor harness. When the electronic component 18 is attached to the clothing 12 and coupled to the sensor harness 14, and the smart clothing 10 is worn by the user, the sensor harness captures the user's data (such as motion data and / or physiological data), and couples the collected data to the electronic component (e.g., for storage and / or transmission). The electronic components 18 can be conveniently disconnected from the sensor harness 14 and removed from the clothing 12. In an embodiment, the clothing 12 is waterproof or water-resistant. Therefore, after the electronic components 18 are removed, the smart clothing 10 (including the clothing 12 and the sensor harness attached to the smart clothing 10) can be washed or otherwise cleaned. The sensor harness 14 can be waterproof or water-resistant, defined as the ability to maintain suitable performance after at least 50 machine washes at 40°C / gentle tumble drying. For example, when the sensor harness 14 is attached to the clothing and the connector plug 46 does not receive any electronic components, the smart clothing is configured to be washable. The sensor harness 14 and its position on the clothing 12 facilitate accurate capture of user data. In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the sensor harness is invisible from the outside of the clothing.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the clothing 12 is a shirt or similar clothing item, and the clothing 12 is configured to cover at least part of the upper body or torso of the user. However, other embodiments include other types of clothing, including clothing configured to cover at least part of the lower body of the user, such as pants. The illustrated clothing 12 includes a trunk portion 20 and a first limb portion 22 and a second limb portion 24 extending from the trunk portion, respectively. The trunk portion 20 is configured to extend on or around all or part of the user's trunk when worn, and in the illustrated embodiment, it includes a first portion 26 configured to cover the upper part of the trunk (such as, for example, shoulders and / or chest), and a second portion 28 configured to cover the lower part of the trunk (such as, for example, waist and / or hips (for example, the area around the user's pelvis)). In the illustrated embodiment, the first limb portion 22 and the second limb portion 24 are long sleeves, and include a first or upper arm portion 30 and a second or lower arm portion 32. Upper arm portion 30 of first limb portion 22 and second limb portion 24 is configured to cover at least a portion of an upper arm of a user, and lower arm portion 32 is configured to cover at least a portion of a lower arm of a user. Figure 1A and Figure 1B A long sleeve shirt is shown, but other embodiments of garment 12 include short sleeve shirts (eg, shirts that do not include lower arm portions 32). In some embodiments, smart garment 10 may be waterproof or water resistant.

[0055] In an embodiment, the garment 12 can be made of one or more fabric panels or components by conventional methods or other known methods, each of which includes one or more layers of material. Sewing, sewing, laminating, heat-pressing bonding, and adhesive bonding are examples of methods for attaching panels or components of the garment 12 to each other. For example, each of the first limb portion 22 and the second limb portion 24 can be made separately from one or more material components separated from the trunk portion 20 by methods including sewing, sewing, gluing, laminating, or welding, and attached to the torso portion by sewing, sewing, gluing, laminating, or welding. The material of the first limb portion 22 and the second limb portion 24 can be the same or different from the material of the torso portion 20. The torso portion 20 can be formed by one or more material components having one or more layers. In an embodiment, for example, the first portion 26 and the second portion 28 of the torso portion 20 are formed by one or more material components by methods such as sewing, sewing, gluing, laminating, or welding, and are attached to each other by methods such as sewing, sewing, gluing, laminating, or welding.

[0056] Non-limiting examples of suitable materials from which the garment 12 may be formed include woven, knitted or nonwoven fabrics or textile substrates made from natural or synthetic fibers, filaments, yarns, or any combination thereof. For example, the textile substrate may be made from a natural material such as wool, cotton, silk, linen, hemp, jute, sisal, cellulose. Alternatively or additionally, the material may be made from a polymer material, optionally one or more of the following: silicone; polyurethane; polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate and / or polybutylene terephthalate; polyamides, such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6; polyaramids, such as Aromatic amide or Aramids; acrylic polymers; fluoropolymers, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE); acrylates; methacrylates; polyethers; polyesteramides, polyetheramides; polyetheresters; polyether polyurethanes; polyester polyurethanes; or polyetherester polyurethanes; or copolymers, blends, or multilayer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the textile substrates may be flexible, stretchable, and / or elastic, and / or they may be breathable, having a moisture vapor transmission rate greater than 1000 g / m2 / day and less than 5000 g / m2 / day (according to the MVTR test disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)). As used herein, the term "elastic" means that the substrate can be stretched to a length greater than or equal to 5% of its original unstretched length and can recover more than 90% of its original length when the tension is released. In other embodiments, the substrate can be stretched to about 100% of its original unstretched length and can recover more than 80% of its original length when the tension is released. Conventional or other known weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, woven, felting, banding, or braiding processes are non-limiting examples of methods that may be used to produce materials for textile embodiments of the base plate 118 .

[0057] In an embodiment, the garment is an upper body garment (e.g., a shirt) that includes a torso portion, wherein the first portion 26 and the second portion 28 of the torso portion 20 have different properties, such as, for example, to provide different fit properties when worn by a user. For example, the size and / or elastic properties of the second portion 28 or at least a portion of the second portion 28 may be different from the size and / or elastic properties of the first portion 26, so that the second portion 28, including or at least including the pocket 16, fits more closely and more snugly around the waist and / or hips of the user than the first portion 26. In some embodiments, the first portion 26 is configured to extend around the torso of the user when worn by the user, and the first portion 26 has a first diameter in an unstretched state; and the second portion 28 attached to the first portion is also configured to extend around the torso of the user, and the second portion 28 has a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter in an unstretched state. For example, Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The figure shows an embodiment of a garment 12 having a first portion 26, the size and shape of which are designed to fit relatively loosely on a portion of a user's body, for example, when the user's arms are not stretched, the first portion 26 includes a slack portion that is not under tension. The size and shape of the second portion 28 can be designed to fit more closely than the first portion 26, and can be under tension around the user's hips. Therefore, other undesirable movements of the electronic components 18 that may distract attention or be electronic components 18 can be prevented or minimized. The size of the upper portion 26 and / or the first limb portion 22 and the second limb portion 28 can be designed to provide sufficient comfort when worn by the user, without significantly restricting or interfering with its movement, while being sufficiently fitted so that the sensor harness 14 can be accurately positioned relative to the user's body, thereby facilitating accurate collection of motion data. In these types of embodiments, the diameter of the second portion 28 in the unstretched state can be smaller than the diameter of the first portion 26 in the unstretched shape. Alternatively or additionally, the elasticity of the second portion 28 (e.g., along the circumference or diameter direction that compresses the second portion 28 onto the user's torso) can be greater than the elasticity of the first portion 26.

[0058] Figure 2A and Figure 2BDetailed illustrations of the exterior and interior of the torso portion 20 of the garment 12, respectively, include an attachment structure 16 in the form of a tunnel 17. In some embodiments, the electronic attachment structure includes a pocket having an opening leading to the interior or exterior of the torso portion. In other embodiments, the electronic attachment structure includes a tunnel including at least two openings leading to the interior of the garment, the exterior of the garment, or both the interior and exterior of the garment. In the illustrated embodiment, the tunnel 17 is formed by a piece of material attached to the second portion 28 of the torso portion (e.g., by sewing, laminating, gluing or welding). The tunnel 17 includes an opening, such as, for example, at its upper end 21, the size of the opening being designed to facilitate the insertion and removal of the electronic component 18. A slot 19 passing through the material of the garment 12 can be used to provide access to the tunnel 17 for components of the sensor harness 14, and in the illustrated embodiment, the slot 19 leads to the interior of the tunnel 17. Slot 19 may be oriented parallel to the opening, or may be oriented at any angle relative to the opening, including approximately 180 degrees from the opening, which may facilitate insertion of components of the sensor harness into tunnel 17. As described in more detail below, a portion of sensor harness 14 may extend from the interior of garment 12, through the material of the garment, and into tunnel 17, thereby facilitating connection of the sensor harness to electronic components 18. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The configuration of the garment 12 shown in allows both the sensor harness 14 and the electronic components 18 to be covered and not visible from the outside of the garment when the garment is worn by a user. In other embodiments, the garment includes a pocket that is attached to the torso portion on at least one side, with at least a portion of the pocket open to receive the sensor harness, the electronic components, or both. The sensor harness is coupled to the electronic components, and the coupled sensor harness / electronic components are placed in the pocket, where they are securely secured during use.

[0059] Despite Figure 2A and Figure 2B 1 and 2 are shown as being located at specific locations on the garment 12 (e.g., the back and sides), but in other embodiments, the attachment structure 16 is located at other locations on the garment 12 (e.g., other locations on the back side, or other locations such as the front side of the garment). An advantage of positioning the attachment structure 16 on the exterior of the garment 12 is that it facilitates user access, attachment, and removal of the electronic components 18. In other embodiments, the attachment structure 16 is positioned at other locations, such as on the interior of the garment 12, or between multiple layers of material forming the garment.

[0060] Fig.11The figure shows an attachment structure 16 that includes a tunnel 47 in the second portion of the garment 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the tunnel 47 is defined by two material portions 49 and 51 that are stacked on top of each other to form a tunnel therebetween. For example, one or more pieces of material may be folded at an edge 53 (e.g., an edge defining the bottom of the garment 12) and the sides of the pieces of material opposite the edge 53 may be attached to the first portion 26 of the garment. In an embodiment, the tunnel 47 may extend circumferentially around all or part of the second portion 28 of the garment 12. The tunnel includes an opening 55 that leads to the exterior of the torso portion and can be used to provide access to the tunnel 47. The torso portion may also include a connector opening through which a portion of the plurality of electrical wires and electrical connector components extend into the tunnel. For example, in Fig.11 In the illustrated embodiment, opening 55 is defined by edge portions 57 of material portion 51 that are not attached to first portion 26 of garment 12. In some embodiments, the opening or slot of the pocket and / or tunnel may be elasticized to help retain sensor wiring harness and / or electronics.

[0061] Although for purposes of illustration, the attachment structure 16 is Figure 2A and Figure 2B is shown as tunnel 17 and in Fig.11 47, but in other embodiments, the attachment structure 16 can take other forms. For example, alternatively or additionally, the attachment structure 16 can include one or more of the following: snap fastener components, hook and loop fastener components, adhesives, clips, straps, stitching, pillowcase flaps, inner surfaces of non-slip materials, zippers, or other mounts or fasteners, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the tunnel, pocket, or other portion can include anti-static and / or electronic shielding materials.

[0062] Figure 3 and Figure 1A and Figure 1B The sensor harness 14 is shown. As shown, the sensor harness 14 includes a plurality of sensors 40, 41, 42, 43 and 44 arranged in a satellite configuration relative to a connector plug 46. The sensors 40-44 are physically and electrically coupled to the connector plug 46 via a conductive mesh or cable 48. The cable 48 includes a plurality of flexible conductive wires 50 supported by a flexible substrate or flexible base 52.

[0063] The illustrated embodiment of the sensor harness 14 is generally T-shaped when extended and includes a first torso portion 60, a second torso portion 62, a first sleeve portion 64, and a second sleeve portion 66. The first torso portion 60 is configured to extend generally laterally across the torso portion 20 of the garment 12, and in the illustrated embodiment, when the garment is worn, the first torso portion 60 extends across the back of the garment, between the portions of the garment covering the shoulders of the user. The first sensor 40 is shown as being positioned at a particular location on the first torso portion 60, so that when the garment is worn, the location of the first sensor 40 will be positioned adjacent to the upper and central position of the user's back, such as below the base of the user's neck. The second torso portion 62 is configured to extend generally longitudinally downward along the torso portion 20 of the garment 12, and in the illustrated embodiment, the second torso portion 62 extends from the first torso portion 60 and the first sensor 40 along the back of the garment. The connector plug 46 is located at an end of the second torso portion 62 opposite the first torso portion 60. The length of the cable 48 portion of the second torso portion 62 of the sensor harness 14 is long enough so that when the garment is worn, the connector plug 46 can be located at the attachment structure 16 of the garment 12, wherein the connector plug 46 is retained at the attachment structure 16 and does not substantially restrict or interfere with the user's movement. The first sleeve portion 64 and the second sleeve portion 66 extend from opposite sides or opposite ends of the first torso portion 60 and are configured to extend along the limb portions 22 and 24 of the garment 12, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sleeve portion 64 and the second sleeve portion 66 are configured to extend across the outside of the limb portions 22 and 24 of the garment 12, respectively. The sensors 41 and 43 are positioned at specific locations on the sleeve portions 64 and 66 of the sensor harness 14 so that when the garment 12 is worn, the location of the sensors 41 and 43 will be positioned adjacent to the upper arm of the user, for example, near the biceps. Sensors 42 and 44 are positioned at specific locations on sleeve portions 64 and 66 of sensor harness 14 such that when garment 12 is worn, sensors 42 and 44 will be positioned adjacent to the user's lower arm, for example, near the wrist.

[0064] The sensor harness 14 may include a plurality of conductive wires 50 (such as, for example, a single wire), and / or a cable 48 (e.g., a ribbon, bundled, or twisted multi-conductor wire). In some embodiments, the cable 48 and / or the wires 50 may be stretchable (e.g., defining a serpentine path in two or more of the x, y, and z directions relative to the plane of the flexible base 52) to accommodate the flexibility and / or stretching of the flexible base 52. According to some embodiments, the wires 50 may be positioned and / or attached on or near the surface of the flexible base 52, within the thickness of the base, or within a tunnel or channel of the base. Additionally, the flexible base 52 and harness 14 may be waterproof or water resistant, or otherwise configured to withstand machine washing or other cleaning methods.

[0065] Advantageously, the sensor harness 14 can maintain conductive properties within a certain range of stretching and / or bending, thereby reducing the possibility that the cable becomes inoperable due to stretching and / or bending of the garment 12. For example, when the sensor harness 14 is stretched to a strain of 50% of its original, relaxed configuration, the change in resistance of the sensor harness 14 is negligible. "Strain" as defined herein refers to the extension of the flexible base 52 relative to its original, relaxed configuration. In some embodiments, when the sensor harness 14 is stretched to a strain of 100% or even exceeding 100%, the change in resistance of the sensor harness 14 is negligible. In some embodiments, the sensor harness 14 is more stretchable than the garment 12.

[0066] According to certain embodiments, the term "conductive" as used herein with respect to the wire 50 is intended to describe a structure that provides a continuous line or continuous path capable of conducting electrons. The wire 50 can be independently and separately formed from the base 52 and attached to the base. In an exemplary embodiment, the wire 50 includes an insulating or non-conductive region, such as, for example, a dielectric coating. Conventional or other known cables 48 suitable for sensor harness 14 and / or garment 12 applications can be used as electrical conductors.

[0067] In some examples, the plurality of wires 50 may be secured or attached to an outer surface of the flexible base 52, and / or may be braided, woven, or otherwise incorporated into the thickness of the flexible base 52, or located on or near the surface of the flexible base 52. Non-limiting examples of suitable flexible bases 52 include woven, knitted, or non-woven textile substrates made from natural or synthetic fibers, filaments, yarns, or any combination thereof. For example, the textile substrate may be made from a natural material such as wool, cotton, silk, linen, hemp, jute, sisal, cellulose. Alternatively or additionally, the textile substrate may be made from a polymer material, optionally one or more of the following materials: silicone; polyurethane; polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, and / or polybutylene terephthalate; polyamides, such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6; polyaramids, such as Aromatic amide or Aramid; acrylic polymer; fluoropolymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE); acrylate; methacrylate; polyether; polyesteramide, polyetheramide; polyetherester; polyether polyurethane; polyester polyurethane; or polyetherester polyurethane; or copolymers, blends or multilayer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the textile substrates can be flexible, elastic, and / or they can be breathable, having a moisture vapor transmission rate greater than 1000 g / m2 / day and less than 5000 g / m2 / day (according to the MVTR test disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)).

[0068] In some embodiments, the wire 50 can be fixed or attached to the outer surface of the flexible base 52 including a film or membrane layer. Non-limiting examples of suitable film or membrane layer flexible base 52 include natural materials, such as leather or fur, or polymer materials, optionally, the polymer material is one or more of the following materials: silicone; polyurethane; polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate and / or polybutylene terephthalate; polyamide, such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6; polyaramid, such as Aromatic amide or Aramid; acrylic polymer; fluoropolymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE); acrylate; methacrylate; polyether; polyesteramide, polyetheramide; polyetherester; polyether polyurethane; polyester polyurethane; or polyetherester polyurethane; or copolymers, blends or multilayer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the film or membrane substrate can be flexible, elastic, and / or they can be breathable, having a moisture vapor transmission rate greater than 1000 g / m2 / day and less than 5000 g / m2 / day (according to the MVTR test disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)).

[0069] The elastic embodiment of the flexible base 52 can have a stretch greater than or equal to 5% and have a recovery rate of at least 90%. In other embodiments, the elastic substrate can have a stretch less than or equal to 100% and have a recovery rate of at least 80%. An embodiment of the flexible base 52 is a woven, knitted or non-woven textile composed of a filamentary structure such as yarn, thread or fiber interlacing. Traditional or other known weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, weaving, felting, tying or braiding processes are non-limiting examples of methods that can be used to produce materials of the textile embodiment of the flexible base 52.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the wires 50 may be attached to an outer surface of the flexible base 52 to form the sensor harness 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible base 52 is flat (i.e., planar) and does not contain wrinkles when the wires 50 are applied. The wires 50 may be attached such that the wires 50 are positioned on at least a portion of the outer surface of the flexible base 52 to form the sensor harness 14.

[0071] Embodiments include adhesives for attaching all or part of the wire to the flexible base 52 (e.g., the adhesive is located between the conductive wire and the base). Conventional or other known adhesives suitable for use with the wire 50 and the flexible base 52 can be used to attach the conductive wire to the surface of the base. Non-limiting examples of such adhesives include polyurethanes, polyesters, polyolefins, epoxies, acrylates, and methacrylates. In embodiments, the adhesive attaching the wire 50 to the flexible base 52 is located at discrete locations spaced apart from each other along the length of the conductive wire. In other embodiments, the adhesive extends continuously along the length of the wire 50 attached to the flexible base 52.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, embodiments include potting for attaching all or part of the wire 50 to the flexible base 51 (e.g., potting material extends from one or more of the sides or top of the conductive wire onto the base to at least partially cover or encapsulate portions of the wire and adjacent portions of the base, thereby securing the wire to the surface of the base). Conventional or other known potting materials suitable for use in sensor harness 14 applications can be used to attach the conductive wire 50 to the surface of the flexible base 52. Non-limiting examples of such potting materials include adhesives as described above. In embodiments, the potting material that attaches the conductive wire 50 to the flexible base 52 is located at discrete locations spaced apart from one another along the length of the conductive wire. In other embodiments, the potting material extends continuously along the length of the conductive wire 50 attached to the flexible base 52.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, embodiments include sewing for attaching all or part of the conductive thread 50 to the flexible base 52. For example, a filament such as a thread or wire may be wrapped around and around the conductive thread and into or through the flexible base 52 by conventional or other known sewing methods. Still other embodiments include other mechanical structures, such as staples for securing the wire 50 to the flexible base 52.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, all or a portion of the conductive wires 50 may be fabricated, woven, or otherwise inserted into the material of the flexible base 52 (e.g., within the thickness of the substrate, or on or near the surface of the substrate), thereby attaching the conductive wires to the base. For example, in some instances, the wires 50 may be woven, braided, or otherwise inserted into the flexible base 52 during the manufacturing process of the textile substrate. In other instances, the conductive wires 50 may be woven, braided, or otherwise inserted into the flexible base 52 after the base is manufactured.

[0075] As used herein, "fixed" or "attached to" refers to a wire 50 that is manufactured separately from a base 52 being joined (e.g., on or near the surface of the base, and / or within the thickness of the base) or otherwise held or fixed to the base. In at least some of the embodiments described above, for example, the conductive wire 50 is "fixed" or "attached to" the flexible base 52 by a process that occurs after and / or during the manufacture of the base.

[0076] In order to adapt to the stretching and / or flexibility of the cable 48 and the flexible base 52, the conductive wire 50 can have the characteristic of providing them with extensibility (e.g., effectively stretching) when the base part to which they are attached stretches and / or bends. In some embodiments, for example, the wire 50 can define a zigzag, sinusoidal or other serpentine path to effectively stretch and adapt to the stretching and / or bending of the flexible base 52 to which the wire 50 is attached. Zigzag, sinusoidal or other serpentine paths can include conductive wires with predictable and / or repeatable spacing and / or curvature. The curvature can be greater than the minimum bending radius of the conductive wire. The spacing can be sufficient to achieve the desired electrical properties (such as, for example, impedance, capacitance, attenuation, crosstalk, etc.). The sinusoidal path of the wire 50 can be oriented about the xy plane of the flexible base 52 and can be roughly located on the surface of the base. In an embodiment, the wire 50 can be attached to the flexible base 52 by some fibers of the base covering the wire portion. For example, the wire 50 can be attached to the flexible base 52 during the braiding or weaving process of the flexible base 52. Due to the serpentine nature of the conductive wires 50 , the conductive wires 50 have good extensibility and bendability, and can stretch and bend to accommodate the stretching and / or bending of the flexible base 52 to which they are attached.

[0077] Each of the sensors 40-44 is an electronic device configured to collect data from a user wearing the smart clothing 10, and / or to provide electrical information representing the data to the electronic component 18 via the wire and connector plug 46. The sensors 40-44 can be configured, for example, to sense and collect user movement and / or position data, and / or user physiological data (such as pulse rate data, blood pressure data, blood oxygen saturation data, heart data and / or breathing data), and / or environmental data (such as air temperature, humidity, air pressure). Non-limiting examples of sensors 40-44 include accelerometers, strain gauges, biometric sensors, temperature sensors, ECG sensors, EMG sensors, blood oxygen sensors, blood glucose level sensors, magnetometers, gyroscopes, wireless communication devices, heart rate sensors, sweat sensors, pressure sensors, and atmospheric oxygen sensors, air quality sensors, humidity sensors, noise level sensors, global positioning system (GPS) sensors, or combinations thereof. Each sensor 40-44 can include multiple sensors configured to collect redundant and / or different types of data.

[0078] Sensors 40-44 are coupled to connector plug 46 via one or more of wires 50. Wires 50 may include any known or other conventional structure for coupling electrical signals, including, for example, printed ink conductors and metal wires. Although for purposes of illustration, Figure 34, five wires 50 are shown, but other embodiments of the sensor harness 14 may include more or fewer wires. For example, the sensor harness 14 may be configured with a sufficient number of wires 50 to enable each sensor to operate (e.g., be powered as needed) and couple the collected data to the connector plug 46. Although illustrated as including a multi-conductor cable 48, other embodiments of the sensor harness 14 include one or more single wires (such as 50).

[0079] although Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 The exemplary smart garment 10 and sensor harness 14 shown in FIG. 1 have five sensors, but other embodiments have more or fewer sensors. For example, a short-sleeved embodiment of the smart garment 12 in the form of a shirt may not have sensors such as 42 and 44 that are configured to be positioned near the user's lower arms. Additionally or alternatively, an embodiment may have one or more sensors positioned on the sensor harness 14 that are positioned so that when the sensor harness is mounted to the garment 12, the sensors are located near the lower back or wrist of the user wearing the garment.

[0080] The sensor harness 14 is preferably mounted to the garment 12 in a manner that: (1) positions the sensors 40-44 at desired predetermined locations on the garment so that data can be accurately collected while the garment is worn, (2) is secure enough to facilitate washing or other cleaning of the smart garment without excessive movement or separation of portions of the sensor harness from the garment, and / or (3) enables relatively easy or convenient removal of the sensor harness from the garment when it is desired to remove the sensor harness from the garment (e.g., when disposing of or recycling the garment). Part or all of the sensor harness 14 may be located on one or both of the interior or exterior of the garment 12. In an embodiment, part or all of the sensor harness 14 may be located within the thickness of the material of the garment 12 (e.g., between two layers of material, or within a single layer of material). In an embodiment, all or part of the sensor harness 14 is covered by a material, for example, in a manner that minimizes or reduces the visibility of the sensor harness 14 when the smart garment 10 is worn, and / or in a manner that enhances the visual appearance of the smart garment.

[0081] Figure 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a portion of a torso portion 20 and a first limb portion 22 of a garment 12 in the form of a long-sleeved shirt, Figure 4A harness cover 70 is included for securing the first sleeve portion 64 of the sensor harness 14 to the garment. In the illustrated embodiment, the harness cover 70 is formed by a plurality of cover tunnel portions 72 and 74 formed by a material member attached to the garment 12 (e.g., by stitches 76 on the side edges of the material member). The cover tunnel portions 72 and 74 together with the material surface of the torso portion 20 define an aisle, passage, or tunnel 75. The harness cover 70 can include an opening 78 at a location on the garment 12 (e.g., on the first limb portion 22) where a sensor (such as sensors 41 and 42) is located. For example, the opening 78 between the cover tunnel portions 72 and 74 is located at a desired location for the sensor 41, and in the illustrated embodiment, an end of the cover tunnel portion 74 opposite the cover tunnel portion 72 is located at a desired location for the sensor 42. Figure 4 The embodiment illustrated in the figure includes a sensor cover 80 that covers one or more of the sensors 41 and 42, thereby forming a barrier between the sensor and the skin of the user wearing the clothing. The sensor cover 80 can reduce any irritation or discomfort that may be caused by the sensors (such as 41 and 42) being in direct physical contact with the user's skin, and the sensor cover 80 can also act as a barrier to minimize or otherwise reduce contact between the skin and other body tissues (such as sweat) and the sensors, thereby preventing possible adverse effects on the operation of the sensors. In some embodiments, the sensor cover 80 is configured to attach one or more associated sensors of the multiple sensors to the clothing. The sensor cover 80 can help reduce the movement of the sensors, thereby potentially providing more accurate motion data.

[0082] The size of the tunnel 75 is designed to securely hold a portion of the sensor harness 14 (such as the cable 48) to the garment 12. The harness cover 70 can be formed before the sensor harness 14 is attached to the garment 12, and the tunnel 75 is made large enough to facilitate the insertion of the first sleeve portion 64 of the sensor harness 14 through the tunnel. In these types of embodiments, the sensor harness 14 can be disassembled or removed from the garment 12 by pulling the sensor harness through the harness cover 70. In other embodiments, the harness cover 70 is attached to the garment 12 while covering the cable 48 and / or other portions of the sensor harness. In these embodiments, the size of the tunnel 75 may not be sufficient to receive sensors (such as 41 and 42). In these types of embodiments, the cover tunnel portions 72 and 74 can be removed from the garment 12, thereby providing an opening for the sensor harness 14 to be removed from the garment. For example, an opening for removing the sensor harness 14 can be provided by removing or destroying sutures or other structures (such as adhesives or other bonding). Alternatively or additionally, the cover tunnel portions 72 and 74 may be cut along their lengths to provide openings for removing the sensor harness 14 .

[0083] Although for the purpose of example Figure 4 Only the harness cover 70 is shown in the figure, but a cover tunnel structure substantially the same as or similar to the harness cover 70 can be formed at an appropriate position of the garment 12 to fix the first torso portion 60, the second torso portion 62, and the second sleeve portion 64 of the sensor harness 14 to the garment 12. For example, a harness cover such as 70 can be located in the middle of the back of the garment 12 and extend longitudinally from near the collar to the bottom of the garment to fix the second torso portion 62 (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 1B shown).

[0084] Tunnels such as 75 may also be formed by other structural arrangements. For example, one or more pin-tuck tunnels (not shown) may be formed by the material of the garment 12 in the following manner: folding and folding back portions of the garment to form a double-layer hem extending in the direction and position of the desired tunnel, and then attaching the free edge side of the hem and the edge of the hem on the side that is in contact with the other parts of the garment material to the garment material (e.g., by sewing). The tunnel is thus defined between the double-layer hem and the adjacent portion of the garment 12. An opening may be formed in the material of the hem at the desired position of the sensor. As yet another example, in a garment 12 formed by a multi-layer material, a tunnel may be defined between the multi-layer material (e.g., by sewing), and an opening may be formed in the inner layer of the material at the desired position of the sensor. In some embodiments, each of the harness cover 70 and the sensor cover 80 may be independently formed by a textile or polymer encapsulation material. In some embodiments, the harness cover 70 and the sensor cover 80 are made of the same textile as the garment 10. In some embodiments, the harness cover 70 and the sensor cover 80 are made of textiles different from the garment 10.

[0085] Figure 5 The figure shows an exemplary snap fastener structure 90 that can be used to secure the sensor harness 14 to the article of clothing 12. The snap fastener structure 90 includes a first fastener component 92 and a complementary second fastener component 94, which can be releasably mechanically coupled to each other. The first fastener component 92 is mounted to the article of clothing 12, and in this example, the first fastener component 92 is shown as having a receiving member 96. The second fastener component 94 is mounted to the sensor harness 14, and in this example, the second fastener component 94 has a post 98 that is received by the receiving member 96 of the first fastener component 92. Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the second fastener component 94 is mounted to the sensor 41. The first fastener component 92 may be located on the surface of the garment 12 (at Figure 54 (not shown) and located at a desired location on the garment to secure the sensor 41, such as, for example, the upper arm portion 30. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more snap fastener structures, such as 90, may be located at other corresponding locations on the garment 12 and the sensor harness 14 (e.g., on the cable 48) to releasably secure these portions of the sensor harness to the desired location on the garment.

[0086] Other embodiments of the smart garment 12 include other types of releasable fastener mechanisms (e.g., hook and loop fasteners) with complementary components for mounting the sensor harness 14 to the garment 12. One or more releasable fastener structures (such as 90) may also be used in conjunction with one or more harness cover structures (such as 70) as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor harness 14 may be attached to the garment 12 by other structures or methods such as stitching, adhesives, and / or snaps (e.g., the cable 48 may be sewn to the material of the garment 12).

[0087] Figure 6 is an isometric illustration of an electronic component 18 including a connector socket 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a sensor harness 14 including an electrical cable 48 and an embodiment of a connector plug 46 that may be mechanically and electrically coupled to an electronic component 18 , according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is an isometric illustration of a connector plug 46 mechanically and electrically coupled to a connector socket 100 of an electronic component 18. The electronic component 18 including the connector socket 100 and the connector plug 46 mate with each other to form an electrical connector system that can be incorporated into the smart garment 10.

[0088] The electronic component 18 includes a housing 104 having a first main wall 106, four side walls (first side wall 108, second side wall 110, third side wall 112 and fourth side wall 114), and a second main wall (at Figure 6 The first side wall 108, the second side wall 110, the third side wall 112, and the fourth side wall 114 have edge portions that are joined to and extend between the edge portions of the first main wall 106 and the second main wall to define a space within the housing 104. An electronic device 116 within the housing 104 is electrically coupled to the connector socket 100.

[0089] The connector socket 100 includes a recess or socket 120 in the first main wall 106 of the housing 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the socket 120 is located near the side wall 108 of the housing 104 and also opens or extends from the side wall 108 to the housing interior. The illustrated embodiment of the socket 120 thus defines an opening that extends into the housing 104 through the intersecting edge portion 122 of the first main wall 106 and the side wall 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the socket 120 is generally rectangular and is defined by a bottom or socket contact wall 130, side walls 132 and 134, and an inner wall 136. The contact wall 130 extends from the side wall 108. The inner wall 136 extends between the edge portions of the first main wall 106 and the contact wall opposite the side wall 108. The side wall 132 extends between the side edge portions of the side wall 108 and the inner wall 136 and between the side edge portions of the first main wall 106 and the contact wall. Similar to the side wall 132, but on the side of the socket 120 opposite the contact wall 130 and the inner wall 136, the side wall 134 extends between the side edge portions of the side wall 108 and the inner wall 136 and between the side edges of the first main wall 106 and the contact wall. In some embodiments, the contact wall 130 can be substantially coplanar across the entire surface of the contact wall 130. In other embodiments, the contact wall 130 can have a lip or raised portion 131. The illustrated embodiment of the socket 120 includes a lip or raised portion 131 located at the edge of the socket adjacent to the side wall 108. The surface of the contact wall 130 can be recessed relative to the raised portion 131. The raised portion 131 can cooperate with a complementary feature on the connector plug 14 to help keep the electronic component 18 and the connector plug 46 in a coupled configuration. Other embodiments may not include structures such as the raised portion 131, and the surface of the contact wall 130 can be coplanar with the exterior of the housing 104.

[0090] One or more tabs 140 (for purposes of illustration) Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, a tab 140 extends from each of the socket side walls 132 and 134 into the socket 120 at a location adjacent to the housing side wall 108. The tab 140 is generally rectangular in cross-section and extends substantially along the entire height of the socket side wall or the entire depth of the socket 120 (e.g., in a direction between the first main wall 106 and the contact wall 130). Figure 6 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 140 are configured to define the receptacle 120 to include the space between the tabs in both the first main wall 106 and the housing side wall 108. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more tabs 140 may have other configurations, such as shapes and sizes.

[0091] Embodiments of the connector socket 100 include springs 144 extending from one or more of the socket walls 132, 134, and 136 into the socket 120. The illustrated embodiment includes two compression springs 144 extending from the socket side walls 132 and 134, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the springs 144 are located between the tabs 140 and the inner wall 136. In other embodiments (not shown), the springs 144 may be located in other locations, such as, for example, located on the inner wall 136 opposite the tabs 140. As described in more detail below, the springs 144 are configured to help retain the connector plug 46 within the socket 120 when the connector plug is coupled to the connector socket 100.

[0092] Embodiments of the connector socket 100 include alignment structures 146 extending from one or more of the socket walls 132, 134, and 136 into the socket 120. The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality (three are shown for purposes of illustration) of alignment structures 146 extending from the socket interior wall 136. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment structures 146 are generally rectangular in cross-section and, in the illustrated embodiment, taper to a smaller cross-sectional dimension at the end adjacent the first main wall 106. As described in more detail below, the alignment structures 146 cooperate with the connector plug 46 to guide the connector plug to a correct mating position in the socket 120 when the connector plug is coupled to the connector socket 100.

[0093] The connector socket 100 also includes one or more electrical contacts 150 located on and / or extending from the contact wall 130. The illustrated embodiment of the connector socket 100 includes a plurality of first electrical contacts 150. In an embodiment, the first electrical contacts 150 are spring-loaded pogo pin contacts extending from the contact wall 130 into the receptacle 120. Other embodiments of the connector socket 100 include other types of electrical contacts, such as blade connectors, leaf spring connectors, or combinations thereof.

[0094] Fig. 9804 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary physical components (e.g., hardware) of an electronic device 116, which may be incorporated into the electronic components 18 and communicatively coupled to the sensor harness 14 (e.g., coupled to the sensors 40-44), as described herein. In a basic configuration, the electronic device 116 is configured as a computing device or controller with data interface capabilities and may include at least one processing unit 802 and a system memory 804. Depending on the configuration and type of the computing device, the system memory 804 may include, but is not limited to, volatile storage (e.g., random access memory), non-volatile storage (e.g., read-only memory), flash memory, or any combination of these memories. The system memory 804 may include an operating system 805 and one or more, such as sensing and processing components 820.

[0095] For example, the operating system 805 may be suitable for controlling the operation of the electronic device 116. In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with a graphics library, other operating systems, or any other application program, and are not limited to any particular application or system. Fig. 9 808 are illustrated by those components within the dashed line 808. The electronic device 116 may have additional features or functionality. For example, the electronic device 116 may also include additional data storage devices (removable and / or non-removable). Such additional storage Fig. 9 8 is illustrated by a removable storage device 809 and a non-removable storage device 810. A removable storage device such as 809 may be used to transmit information collected from the sensor harness 14 to other systems for use or analysis (e.g., an application or other program on a computer system or mobile device).

[0096] As described above, a number of program modules and data files may be stored in system memory 804. When executed on processing unit 802, program modules 806 (eg, sensing and processing component 820) may perform processing including, but not limited to, aspects as described herein, for example, data sensing aspects.

[0097] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented on circuits including discrete electronic components, packaged or integrated electronic chips containing logic gates, circuits utilizing microprocessors, or a single chip containing electronic components or microprocessors. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented via a system on a chip (SOC), wherein Fig. 9Each of the components illustrated in the figure or multiple components can be integrated into a single integrated circuit. Such a SOC device may include one or more processing units, a graphics unit, a communication unit, a system virtualization unit, and various application functions, all of which are integrated (or "burned") into the chip substrate as a single integrated circuit. When operated via the SOC, the functions described herein regarding the client switching protocol capability can be operated via specific application logic integrated with other components of the electronic device 116 on a single integrated circuit (chip). The embodiments of the present disclosure can also be implemented using other technologies capable of performing logical operations (such as, for example, and, or, not), including but not limited to mechanical technology, optical technology, fluid technology, and quantum technology. In addition, the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in a general-purpose computer or in any other circuit or system.

[0098] The electronic device 116 may also have one or more input devices 812, such as a visual image sensor, an audio sensor, a sound or voice input sensor, a touch or sliding input device, etc. The electronic device 116 may also include (multiple) output devices 814, such as a display, a speaker, etc. The above devices are examples, and other devices may also be used. The electronic device 116 may include one or more communication connections 816, which allow communication with other computing devices (e.g., computer systems or applications or other programs on mobile) that process and analyze or otherwise use data collected by the sensor harness 14. Examples of suitable communication connections 816 include, but are not limited to, radio frequency (RF) transmitters, receivers, and / or transceiver circuits; universal serial bus (USB), parallel and / or serial ports. In other embodiments, the electronic component 18 may also include any one or more sensors of the mobile, position, physiological, and / or environmental data sensors described herein.

[0099] The term "computer storage media" as used herein may include computer storage media. Computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as, computer readable instructions, data structures, or program modules). System memory 804, removable storage device 809, and non-removable storage device 810 are all examples of computer storage media (e.g., memory storage). Computer storage media may include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, optical storage, magnetic storage devices, or any other article that can be used to store information and can be accessed by electronic device 116. Any such computer storage media may be part of electronic device 116. Computer storage media does not include carrier waves or other propagated or modulated data signals.

[0100] Communication media may embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and include any information delivery media. The term "modulated data signal" may describe a signal that has one or more characteristics set or changed in a manner that encodes the information in the signal. By way of example and not limitation, communication media may include: wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection; and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared and other wireless media.

[0101] Reference again Figures 6 to 8 The connector plug 46 includes a body 200 having a mating portion 202, a molded portion 203, and one or more second electrical contacts 204 on the mating portion. A plurality of second electrical contacts 204 are shown in the illustrated embodiment. The cable 48 extends from the body 200, and each wire 50 of the cable (at Figure 7 or Figure 8The mating portion 202 of the body 200 is configured to mate with the receptacle 120 of the connector socket 100 (e.g., the position, size, and shape of the mating portion 202 are designed to mate within the receptacle), and the mating portion 202 is defined by a bottom wall 210, a top wall 212, side walls 214 and 216, and an end wall 218. The overmold portion 203 extends from a side of the mating portion 202 opposite the end wall 218, and the overmold portion 203 is defined by a bottom wall 220, a top wall 222, side walls 224 and 226, and an end wall 228. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom wall 220, top wall 222, and side walls 224 and 226 of the overmold portion 203 extend substantially coplanar with the corresponding bottom wall 210, top wall 212, and side walls 214 and 216 of the mating portion 202. In other embodiments (not shown), the overmold portion 203 has a different configuration. Still other embodiments of the connector plug 146 (not shown) do not include the overmold portion 203. The connector plug 46 can be an integral molded component. For example, the mating portion 202 can be formed by a first polymer component and a second polymer component (not shown separately), which are engaged with each other to seal the second electrical contact 204 within the body 200, and the overmold portion 203 can be formed on the body to cover the cable 48 and a portion of the body, thereby enhancing the waterproof properties of the body. In some embodiments, the connector plug 46 includes: a first polymer member; a second polymer member joined to the first polymer member, a support member sealed between the first polymer member and the second polymer member; and a molded portion sealingly connected to at least a portion of the first polymer member and the second polymer member and extending over at least a portion, and wherein a portion of the cable extends from the molded portion.

[0102] The second electrical contact 204 of the connector plug 46 is positioned on the mating portion 202 and is configured to mate with the first electrical contact 150 of the connector socket 100 to couple the electrical signal from the sensor harness 14 to the electronic device 106 of the electronic component 18 when the mating portion is received in the socket 120 of the connector socket. In an embodiment, when the connector plug 46 is coupled to the connector socket, the second electrical contact 204 of the connector plug 46 is in physical and mechanical contact with the first electrical contact 150 of the connector socket 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrical contact 204 is positioned on the bottom wall 210 of the mating portion 202. The second electrical contact 204 can be a conductive member fixedly mounted relative to the bottom wall 210, such as, for example, a metal member, optionally a copper-plated or gold-plated conductive member. For example, the material forming the mating portion 202 can physically contact at least the peripheral side of the second electrical contact 204 to provide a waterproof or water-resistant seal between the mating portion 202 of the body and the electrical contact 204. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the contact surface of the second electrical contact 204 is recessed below the bottom wall 210 of the mating portion 202. In other embodiments (not shown), the contact surface of the second electrical contact 204 is substantially flush or parallel to the bottom wall 210, or may extend beyond the bottom wall. Other embodiments of the connector plug 46 include other types and / or configurations of second electrical contacts 204.

[0103] The illustrated embodiment of the mating portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more tab recesses 230 (two are shown for purposes of example) on one or more of the side walls 214 and 216. Each of the tab recesses 230 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and mate with one of the tabs 140 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug 46 is coupled to the connector socket. Embodiments of the connector plug 46 configured for use with embodiments of the connector socket 100 that do not include tabs 140 may not have tab recesses 230. In yet other embodiments (not shown), one or more tabs (such as 140) may be located on the connector plug 46 (e.g., instead of on the connector socket 100), and complementary mating tab recesses (such as 230) may be located on the connector socket (e.g., instead of on the connector plug).

[0104] The illustrated embodiment of the mating portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more alignment grooves 232 (three are shown for purposes of example) on the end wall 218. Each of the alignment grooves 232 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and mate with one of the alignment structures 146 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug 46 is coupled to the connector socket. Embodiments of the connector plug 46 configured for use with embodiments of the connector socket 100 that do not include the alignment structures 146 may not have the alignment grooves 232. In yet other embodiments (not shown), one or more alignment structures (such as 146) may be located on the connector plug 46 (e.g., instead of on the connector socket 100), and complementary mating alignment grooves (such as 232) may be located on the connector socket (e.g., instead of on the connector plug).

[0105] The illustrated embodiment of the mating portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more spring recesses 234 (two are shown for purposes of illustration) on one or more of the side walls 214 and 216. Each of the spring recesses 234 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and mate with one of the springs 144 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug 46 is coupled to the connector socket. Even if the connector socket 100 includes the spring 144, an embodiment of the connector plug 46 may not have the spring recess 234. An embodiment of the connector plug 46 configured for use with an embodiment of the connector socket 100 that does not include the spring 144 may not have the spring recess 234. In yet other embodiments (not shown), one or more springs (such as 144) may be located on the connector plug 46 (e.g., instead of on the connector socket 100), and a complementary mating spring recess (such as 234) may be located on the connector socket (e.g., instead of on the connector plug).

[0106] Alternatively or additionally, the connector slot 100 and / or the connector plug 46 may include other structures to enhance the strength of retention and ensure that the connector plug remains in the connector slot when these connector components are coupled to each other. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive may be applied to one or more walls or other surfaces of the connector slot 100 and / or the connector plug 46 that contact the walls or other surfaces of other components. As another example, a hook-and-loop fastener may be incorporated into the connector slot 100 and the connector plug 46. In another embodiment, the electronic component 18 includes a sliding lock (not shown) that can be moved from a first unengaged position (e.g., a position parallel to or coplanar with the first main wall 106) to a second locked position that at least partially covers the connector plug 46 when the connector plug 46 and the electronic component 18 are in a coupled position to help keep the connector plug 46 in the coupled position. In other embodiments, an elastic band, a clip, or other known retaining mechanism may be used to retain the connector plug 46 on the electronic component 18.

[0107] The connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 are configured so that when they are coupled to each other, the mating portion 202 of the connector plug 46 is received within the receptacle 120 of the connector socket 100, and the second electrical contacts 204 of the connector plug are electrically coupled to the associated first electrical contacts 150 of the connector socket 100, and in an embodiment, are also in physical contact with the first electrical contacts 150. When the connector plug is coupled to the connector socket 100, the bottom wall 210 of the connector plug 46 is adjacent to the bottom wall 130 of the connector socket 100, and in an embodiment, the bottom wall 210 of the connector plug 46 is substantially parallel to the bottom wall 130 of the connector socket 100.

[0108] By the movement of the connector plug relative to the connector slot along the coupling path, the connector plug 46 and the connector slot 100 are connected or attached in a coupling relationship. Similarly, by the movement of the connector plug relative to the connector slot along the coupling path, the connector plug 46 and the connector slot 100 can be removed, disconnected or disassembled from the coupling relationship. The coupling path of the illustrated embodiment is the direction of both the bottom wall 210 and the top wall 212 of the mating portion 202 of the connector plug 46. When the connector plug 46 and the connector slot 100 are connected, the connector plug takes the bottom surface 210 as a lead during the movement along the coupling path, and effectively enters the socket 120 through the opening of the first main wall 106 of the housing 104. Similarly, when the connector plug 46 is disconnected from the connector slot 100, the connector plug 46 takes the bottom surface 210 as a tail during the movement along the coupling path. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 210 cooperates with the bottom wall 130 when connected. In embodiments where the bottom wall 130 includes the raised portion 131, the shape of the bottom wall 210 is adapted to the bottom wall 130, and the raised portion 131 functions to prevent the connector plug 46 from being removed from any direction of the uncoupled path. For example, a portion of the mating portion 202 and / or the overmold portion 203 may be recessed relative to the bottom wall 210 to define a shoulder on a side of the mating portion opposite the end wall 218, and the shoulder is configured to engage with the raised portion 131.

[0109] The movement along the coupling path and the direction of the coupling path can be guided by characteristics including, for example, the orientation of one or more of the walls 132, 134, and 136, the alignment structures 146 and / or the tabs 140 and / or the raised portions 131 of the connector socket 100, and / or the walls 212, 214, and 216, the alignment recesses 232, and / or the tab recesses 230 of the connector plug 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the walls 132, 134, and 136, the alignment structures 146 and the tabs 140 of the connector socket 100, and the walls 212, 214, and 216, the alignment recesses 232, and the tab recesses 230 of the connector plug 46 are generally perpendicular to the major plane of the first major wall 106 of the housing 104, and are generally parallel to the side walls 108 of the housing. The illustrated embodiment of the connector plug 46 thus moves along the coupling path that is generally perpendicular to the first major wall 106 of the housing when the connector plug is connected to and disconnected from the connector socket 100. During the process of connecting the connector plug to the connector socket, the alignment structure 146 cooperates with the alignment recess 232 to guide and help ensure the accurate positioning of the connector plug 46 in the connector socket 100. In addition to the mating portion of the connector plug 46 having a corresponding and mating shape and size with the receptacle 120 of the connector socket 100, the lug 140 of the connector socket cooperates with the lug recess 230 of the connector plug to help maintain the connector plug in its coupled position with the connector socket. Similarly, the spring 144 of the connector socket 100 engages with the side walls 214 and 216 of the connector plug 46 and cooperates with any spring recess (such as 234) of the connector plug to help maintain the connector plug in its coupled position with the connector socket.

[0110] If possible Figure 8 As best shown in FIG. 1 , when the connector plug 46 is coupled in the connector socket 100 of the electronic component 18, portions of the body 202 (including at least portions of the overmold portion 203) extend from the receptacle 120 beyond the sidewall 108 of the housing 104. In an embodiment, portions of the mating portion 202 of the body 200 may also extend beyond the sidewall 108 of the housing. The top wall 212 of the connector plug 46 is substantially parallel to the first main wall 106 of the housing 104 of the electronic component 18, and in an embodiment, is flush or coplanar with the first main wall 106. The illustrated configuration of the connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 resists movement and disconnection relative to each other along any path through the sidewall 108 (e.g., any direction ±90° relative to a direction perpendicular to the sidewall 108). In fact, the configuration of the connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 enables the connector plug to resist forces in any direction other than the direction of the coupling path, thereby preventing it from disconnecting from the connector socket.

[0111] The cable 48 of the sensor harness 14 extends from the body 200 of the connector plug 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 48 extends from the overmold portion 203 of the body 200. In other embodiments (not shown), such as, for example, in embodiments without the overmold portion 203, the cable 48 extends from other parts of the body, such as the mating portion 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 48 and the wires 50 therein extend from the body 200 of the connector plug 46 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coupling path, along which the connector plug moves during connection and disconnection of the connector plug relative to the connector socket 100. With this configuration, when the user wears the smart clothing 10, the connector plug 46 can be prevented from being disconnected from the connector socket 100 due to the force exerted on the connector plug by the cable 48. In other embodiments, when the cable extends from the body 200 of the connector plug 46 at other angles, such as, for example, at an angle between 45 degrees and 135 degrees relative to the coupling path, an advantageous anti-disconnection characteristic of the connector system can be provided.

[0112] The smart clothing 10 can accurately and reliably collect data from the user wearing the clothing. The data can be used for various purposes, such as for ergonomic analysis (for example, in the shirt or jacket embodiment of the smart clothing 10, for back and shoulder ergonomic analysis). The smart clothing 10 can also be comfortable to wear and have little or no substantial effect on the user's ability to perform conventional or other expected movements. The prototype has been proven to maintain appropriate performance after at least 50 machine washes at 40°C / gentle drying using a tumble dryer and 1,500 plug-in and unplug cycles of the connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100.

[0113] The quality of ergonomically sensed data may depend, at least in part, on knowledge of sensor location. Smart clothing 10 provides these and other features. The sensors remain fixed in position and / or orientation and as close to the body as reasonably possible to provide accurate motion and other data. Smart clothing provides wearing comfort, durability, and hygiene with relatively low setup time.

[0114] Embodiments of the smart clothing 10 include mid-layer shirts, such as long-sleeved shirts or jackets made of high-performance fabrics, which have integrated electronic sensor harnesses that facilitate multi-point upper body motion capture. Embodiments of the sensor harness include an electronic mesh (e.g., wires woven into elastic fabric trim), one or more (such as, for example, five) satellite sensor devices (e.g., each device contains one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or a magnetometer), and a connector. The sensor harness can be T-shaped and electrically connect and position satellite sensors (e.g., two on each arm (such as at the wrist and biceps), and one at the neck). The sensor can be permanently attached (e.g., welded) to the electronic mesh and packaged to achieve waterproofing to resist washing. The packaging of the sensor and attachment points can help provide a waterproof or water-resistant harness for the smart clothing 10. The connector plug 46 can terminate at the bottom of the "T" and facilitate connection to electronic components such as a controller. The electronic components can provide control, power supply, and other functions, and can also include sensors (e.g., for sensing motion). The sensor harness can be attached to clothing by sewing or other methods / structures, for example, attached to the inside of clothing, and can extend down along the back of the arm and spine. The sensor can be covered by a fabric badge to minimize or prevent interaction with the user's skin. In an embodiment where the sensor harness is located inside clothing, these electronic components are essentially invisible. Attaching the sensor harness to clothing can facilitate its removal from clothing at the end of its life. The connector of the harness can reside in a pocket, or be attached to clothing by other attachment structures, and can be located on a more fitted elastic waist or other part of clothing, such as the back of the hips. In order to attach a controller, the user can pull the connector out of the pocket, attach it to the controller, and store the controller (and (in an embodiment) the connector) in the pocket. The connector and pocket can be configured to facilitate user access, and the pocket can hold the controller relatively firmly, so that accurate data (such as, for example, movement, physiological or other data from the user's pelvis) can be captured, and the possibility of the controller being disconnected from the sensor harness or clothing is reduced.

[0115] Electrical connector systems facilitate both electrical and mechanical connections. With electrical connections, electricity, such as low voltage current, can flow across the connector in multiple different channels. With mechanical connections, removable components are physically bound to the rest of the system at the will of the user. The connection can be relatively easy for the user to bind and unbind, but the risk of accidental separation is relatively low. The connector system exhibits multiple important characteristics. For example, the clothing side of the connector can withstand clothing care regimes, such as mechanical stress, heat, detergents, dirt, or corrosion during the washing process. The connector is large enough to be convenient for a wide range of users, but not so large that it is uncomfortable to wear. The connector system is robust enough to resist wear stress. For example, when the user walks or performs other expected series of movements during normal use, the stress will not cause unacceptable loss of connection. The connector system is relatively fool-proof and intuitive to use. Manufacturing can be efficient.

[0116] The electrical contacts of the connector plug can be relatively large and flush with the body. This provides resistance to dirt and corrosion during cleaning (for example, compared to connectors that may have grooves or openings blocked by debris during cleaning). The connector plug and the connector socket can be coupled in only one direction or manner. The risks associated with accidental wrong polarity connection can be mitigated. Embodiments with a 90-degree elbow shape can reduce the size of the connector plug and the overall size of the entire connector system when the connector plug is engaged to the connector socket. The risk of accidental disconnection can be reduced, for example, when the shirt-side cable is pulled in the direction of the electronic component. The tabs or lugs help to maintain fixation and also help prevent unintended disconnection. The use of a pin connector with a spring helps to ensure the robustness of the electrical contact, for example, to ensure the robustness of the electrical contact under vibration or shock that the electronic component may be subjected to during use. The spring (which can be a leaf spring) is configured to offset the force provided by the pin connector with a spring and can be adjusted or replaced as needed. Embodiments of the connector plug that do not contain moving or sensitive parts provide washability. The profile of the connector plug is flush and simple. The overmold portion may provide stress relief or tapering between the connector plug and the rest of the sensor harness. The connector plug may be potted, for example using a hot melt compound, to ensure its water resistance and integrity. In an embodiment, only relatively robust components are located in the connector plug to enhance its durability to cleaning cycles.

[0117] The invention of the present application has been described above generally and based on specific embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made in the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to enable the embodiments to cover various modifications and variations of the present invention, as long as these modifications and variations are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electrical connector system, comprising: An electronic component, comprising: case; a socket on the housing, the socket being defined by one or more socket walls and including at least a socket contact wall; one or more tabs and / or one or more tab receiving features on at least one of the one or more socket walls; at least one first electrical contact on said socket contact wall; A connector plug configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to the electronic component in a releasable manner, the connector plug comprising: a body including a mating portion and one or more tabs and / or one or more tab receiving features, wherein the mating portion of the body is configured to mate with the socket of the electronic component along a coupling path and to be received by the socket in a coupling position where the mating portion faces the socket contact wall, and wherein each of the tab receiving features of the electronic component and the connector plug is configured to mate with one of the tabs of the electronic component and the connector plug; at least one second electrical contact on the mating portion, wherein each of the second electrical contacts is electrically coupled to one of the first electrical contacts when the mating portion of the body is in the coupled position in the receptacle; one or more wires extending from the body in a direction non-parallel to the coupling path, wherein each of the one or more wires is electrically connected to one of the second electrical contacts; and Wherein the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being removed from the electronic component in the direction in which the one or more wires extend from the body of the connector plug.

2. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent removal of the connector plug from the electronic component in all directions different from a direction of the coupling path.

3. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that: The housing comprises a first outer wall; and The one or more socket walls define the socket in the first outer wall of the housing.

4. The electrical connector system according to claim 3, wherein: The one or more socket walls are generally perpendicular to the first outer wall of the housing.

5. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that: The outer wall includes a second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at an edge of the housing; and The one or more socket walls define sockets located in the first and second outer walls and through the edge of the housing.

6. The electrical connector system according to claim 5, wherein: The electronic component includes one or more tabs on the housing; The second outer wall of the housing includes an opening having a first side edge and / or a second side edge; and Each of the one or more tabs on the housing extends into the opening of the second outer wall to partially define the receptacle.

7. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising alignment features on one or more of the socket walls and the body of the connector plug, wherein: The alignment feature is configured to facilitate one-way mating of the mating portion of the body with the electronic component.

8. The electrical connector system as described in any one of claims 1-7 further includes a compression spring on one or both of the electronic component and the connector plug, for promoting the coupling of the connector plug with the electronic component when the mating portion of the body is in the coupled position.

9. The electrical connector system according to claim 8, wherein: The compression spring is located on the electronic component; and The connector plug does not have a compression spring.

10. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The socket and the mating portion of the body are substantially rectangular.

11. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: The first electrical contact comprises a spring-loaded contact extending from the socket contact wall into the socket.

12. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The second electrical contact is fixedly mounted relative to the mating portion.

13. The electrical connector system according to claim 12, wherein: The second electrical contact includes a contact surface having an outer edge, and wherein the contact surface is substantially parallel to the mating portion.

14. The electrical connector system according to claim 13, wherein: The contact surface of the second electrical contact is flush with the mating portion.

15. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that: An outer edge of the second electrical contact is engaged to the body of the mating portion without a gap therebetween.

16. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that: The body of the connector plug further includes an overmold portion extending from the mating portion, and wherein the one or more wires extend from the connector plug at the overmold portion of the body.

17. The electrical connector system according to claim 16, wherein: When the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component, at least a portion of the overmold portion of the body is located outside the housing of the electronic component.

18. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 16 to 17, characterized in that: The mating portion and the overmold portion of the body define a 90 degree elbow shape.

19. The electrical connector system according to claim 17, wherein: The housing of the electronic component includes a first outer wall and a second outer wall, the second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at an edge of the housing; the one or more receptacle walls of the housing defining receptacles located in the first outer wall and the second outer wall and passing through the edge of the housing; and The overmold portion of the body extends from the housing through the second outer wall of the housing when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component.

20. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that: The one or more electrical wires extend at an angle of 45 to 135 degrees relative to the direction of the coupling path.

21. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that: The contact wall and the mating portion of the body define a plane that is substantially orthogonal to a direction of the coupling path.

22. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that: the one or more socket walls being substantially perpendicular to the first outer wall of the housing; The housing bottom wall is substantially parallel to the first outer wall of the housing.

23. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that: The connector plug comprises a support member, and wherein the second electrical contact is mounted to the support member; and The connector plug comprises: a first polymer member; a second polymer member joined to the first polymer member, the support member being sealed between the first polymer member and the second polymer member; and The overmold portion is sealingly connected to and extends over at least a portion of the first and second polymeric members, and wherein a portion of the cable extends from the overmold portion.

24. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that: One or both of the electronic component and the plug connector are configured to be water resistant and suitable for repeated machine washing.

25. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that: The electronic component includes one or more of a controller, a sensor, a transmitter, or a receiver located in the housing and coupled to the first electrical contact.

26. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1-25, further comprising a wiring harness, the wiring harness comprising one or more sensors, the wiring harness optionally comprising one or more of an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor coupled to the plurality of wires, and wherein, The harness is configured to be attached to a garment.

27. The electrical connector system of claim 26, further comprising a garment, and wherein: The harness is attached to the garment.

28. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that: The one or more electrical wires include a cable including a plurality of electrical wires, and wherein each of the electrical wires is coupled to one of the second electrical contacts.

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