Electrical Connectors for Smart Clothing

Abstract

An electrical connector system usable to couple a smart garment sensor harness to a control component includes a connector plug on an electrical wire cable of the sensor harness and a connector socket on the control component. The connector plug includes a body that removably engages with a receptacle of the connector socket. The connector plug and connector socket are configured to prevent the connector plug from being removed from the connector socket in the direction the cable extends from the body of the connector plug.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 63 / 395,186, filed August 4, 2022, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0002] Field The present disclosure relates generally to electrical connectors and, more particularly, to electrical connectors that can be incorporated into clothing, such as smart clothing. [Background technology]

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

[0004] However, there remains a continuing need for improved smart clothing and related components, particularly smart clothing and components that are durable, easy to use, and capable of accurately providing information about the user. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Abstract Connectors according to embodiments of the present disclosure can offer many advantages, particularly when used in conjunction with smart clothing. For example, the connector components provide a high-quality mechanical and electrical connection when mated or connected. Characteristics of the electrical connection include low electrical resistance and a robust, continuous electrical connection without electrical discontinuities or intermittent disconnections, even when the connector is subjected to external forces or stresses during use. Characteristics of the mechanical connection include high resistance to undesired mechanical separation or disconnection of the connector components. Yet, the connector components can be relatively easily separated by a user when desired. The connector components are resistant to dust, dirt, and corrosion. At least the garment-facing components of the connector are resistant or protective against external materials and / or factors such as water, detergents, or heat, allowing the components to be washed, dried, or otherwise cared for along with the clothing (e.g., while attached to the clothing). The connector and its components can be configured in a form factor that is small enough to be used on clothing without causing discomfort to the user, yet large enough to be relatively easily physically handled and manipulated by the user. The embodiments are effectively keyed so that the components can be mated in only one configuration, thereby minimizing mis-mating and any associated complications. The connector and its components can be efficiently manufactured.

[0006] According to one example ("Example 1"), an electrical connector system includes: a housing; a receptacle on the housing, the receptacle defined by one or more receptacle walls and including at least a receptacle contact wall; an electronic component including one or more tabs and / or one or more tab-receiving features on at least one of the one or more receptacle walls; and at least one first electrical contact on the receptacle contact wall; a connector plug configured to be coupled to the electronic component in a mechanically and electrically releasable manner, the connector plug including a body including an engaging portion and one or more tabs and / or one or more tab-receiving features, wherein the engaging portion of the body engages with the receptacle of the electronic component along a coupling path and is configured to be received in the receptacle in a coupled position with the engaging portion facing the receptacle contact wall. the connector plug includes: a connector plug having a mating portion on the body, the mating portion being configured to receive and engage one of the tabs on 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 mating position within the receptacle; and one or more wires extending from the body in a direction non-parallel to a mating path, the one or more wires being electrically connected to one of the second electrical contacts, wherein the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being disconnected from the electronic component in a direction in which the one or more wires extend from the body of the connector plug.

[0007] According to another example ("Example 2"), in addition to Example 1, the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being removed from the electronic component in any direction other than the direction of the coupling path.

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

[0009] According to another example ("Example 4"), further to the examples, the one or more receptacle walls are generally perpendicular to the first exterior wall of the housing.

[0010] According to another example ("Example 5"), further to any of Examples 3-4, the housing includes a second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at an edge of the housing, and the one or more receptacle walls define a receptacle within the first outer wall and the second outer wall and through the edge of the housing.

[0011] According to another example ("Example 6"), in addition to Example 5, the electronic component includes one or more tabs on the housing, a 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 in the second outer wall to partially define the receptacle.

[0012] According to another example ("Example 7"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 6, the connector plug further includes alignment features on one or more of the receptacle walls and the body of the connector plug, the alignment features configured to facilitate unidirectional engagement of an engagement portion of the body to the electronic component.

[0013] According to another example ("Example 8"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 7, a compression spring is further included on one or both of the electronic component and the connector plug to facilitate coupling of the connector plug to the electronic component when the engagement portion of the main body is in the coupled position.

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

[0015] According to another example ("Example 10"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 9, the receptacle and the mating portion of the body are generally rectangular in shape.

[0016] According to another example ("Example 11"), in addition to any of Examples 1-10, the first electrical contact includes a spring-loaded contact extending from the receptacle contact wall into the receptacle.

[0017] According to another example ("Example 12"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 11, the second electrical contact is fixedly attached to the engaging portion.

[0018] According to another example ("Example 13"), in addition to example 12, the second electrical contact includes a contact surface having an outer edge, the contact surface being generally parallel to the engagement portion.

[0019] According to another example ("Example 14"), in addition to Example 13, the contact surface of the second electrical contact is flush with the engaging portion.

[0020] According to another example ("Example 15"), in addition to any of Examples 12 to 14, the outer edge of the second electrical contact is joined to the main body of the engaging portion without any gap.

[0021] According to another example ("Example 16"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 15, the body of the connector plug further includes an overmolded portion extending from the engagement portion, and the one or more wires extend from the connector plug at the overmolded portion of the body.

[0022] According to another example ("Example 17"), in addition to Example 16, when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component, at least a portion of the overmolded portion of the body is positioned outside the housing of the electronic component.

[0023] According to another example ("Example 18"), in addition to any of Examples 16-17, the engaging portion of the body and the overmolded portion define a 90° elbow shape.

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

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

[0026] According to another example ("Example 21"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 20, the contact wall and the engagement portion of the body define a plane that is approximately perpendicular to the direction of the coupling path.

[0027] According to another example ("Example 22"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 21, the one or more receptacle walls are approximately perpendicular to the first outer wall of the housing, and the housing bottom wall is approximately parallel to the first outer wall of the housing.

[0028] According to another example ("Example 23"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 22, the connector plug includes a support member, the second electrical contact is attached to the support member, and the connector plug includes a first polymer member, a second polymer member bonded to the first polymer member, wherein the support member is sealed between the first polymer member and the second polymer member, and an overmolded portion sealed between and extending over at least a portion of the first polymer member and the second polymer member, and a portion of the cable extending from the overmolded portion.

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

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

[0031] According to another example ("Example 26"), in addition to any of Examples 1 to 25, the present invention further includes a wiring harness coupled to the plurality of wires, the wiring harness including one or more sensors, optionally one or more of an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor, the wiring harness being configured to be attached to a garment.

[0032] According to another example ("Example 27"), in addition to Example 26, the device further includes clothing, and the wiring harness is attached to the clothing.

[0033] According to another example ("Example 28"), in addition to any of Examples 1-27, the one or more wires include a cable including a plurality of wires, each wire coupled to one of the second electrical contacts.

[0034] The foregoing examples are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting or narrowing the scope of any of the inventive concepts otherwise provided by this disclosure. While multiple examples are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative examples. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings 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] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of the front and back, respectively, of a smart garment according to an embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of the front and back of a smart garment according to an embodiment.

[0037] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a detailed schematic diagram of the interior and exterior, respectively, of a portion of smart clothing including a pocket for receiving electronic components, according to an embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a detailed schematic diagram of the interior and exterior, respectively, of a portion of smart clothing including a pocket for receiving electronic components, according to an embodiment.

[0038] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a sensor harness for smart clothing, according to an embodiment.

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

[0040] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor harness and a snap fastener structure that can be used to attach the sensor harness to clothing, according to an embodiment.

[0041] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an electronic component including a connector socket that can be used in smart clothing, according to an embodiment.

[0042] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a portion of a sensor harness including a connector plug that can be used in smart clothing, according to an embodiment.

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

[0044] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device incorporating an electronic component, according to an embodiment.

[0045] [Figure 10A] 10A-10C are front and back views, respectively, of a smart garment, according to an embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B shows front and back views, respectively, of a smart garment, according to an embodiment.

[0046] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a detailed view of a portion of a smart garment including a tunnel for receiving electronic components, according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

[0048] As used herein, the terms "embodiment" or "disclosure" are not intended to be limiting and apply generally to any of the embodiments claimed or described herein. These terms are used interchangeably herein.

[0049] Unless otherwise specified, as used herein, the terms "a" and "an" are intended to encompass one or more (i.e., at least one) of the referenced feature.

[0050] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more readily understood by those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description. It is to be understood that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described above and below in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single element. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Furthermore, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, references in the singular may also include the plural (e.g., "a" and "an" can refer to one or more).

[0051] The use of various ranges of numerical values specified in this application, unless otherwise stated, are stated as approximations, as if both the minimum and maximum values within the stated range were preceded by the word "about." In this manner, slight variations above and below the stated ranges can be used to achieve substantially the same results as values within the range. Also, the disclosure of these ranges is intended as a continuous range including each and every value between the minimum and maximum values.

[0052] Description of Various Embodiments 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 apparatus configured to perform the intended functions. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawings referred to herein are not necessarily drawn to scale and may be exaggerated to illustrate various aspects of the present disclosure, and in that regard, the drawings should not be construed as limiting.

[0053] 1A and 1B show the front and back views, respectively, of an exemplary smart garment 10 according to an embodiment. The smart garment 10 includes a garment 12 and a sensor harness 14. As described in more detail below, the sensor harness 14 includes an attachment structure 16 configured to receive and hold or attach electronic components 18, which are coupleable to the sensor harness 14, to the garment. The attachment structure 16 is configured to removably receive the electronic components 18, thereby facilitating attachment and removal of the electronic components from the garment. The electronic components 18 are configured to removably couple to the sensor harness 14, thereby facilitating electrical and mechanical connection and removal of the electronic components from the sensor harness. When the electronic components 18 are attached to the garment 12 and coupled to the sensor harness 14 and the smart garment 10 is worn by a user, the sensor harness captures data, such as the user's athletic data and / or physiological data, and couples the collected data to the electronic components (e.g., for storage and / or transmission). The electronic components 18 can be conveniently detached from the sensor harness 14 and removed from the garment 12. In an embodiment, the garment 12 is water-resistant or waterproof. Thus, when the electronic components 18 are removed, the smart garment 10, including the garment 12 and attached sensor harness 14, can be washed or otherwise cleaned. The sensor harness 14 can be water-resistant or waterproof, as defined by its ability to provide adequate performance after at least 50 40°C washes / warm tumble dryers. The smart garment is configured to be washable, for example, when the sensor harness 14 is attached to the garment and no electrical components are received by the connector plug 46. The sensor harness 14 and its location on the garment 12 enable accurate capture of user data. In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the sensor harness is not visible from the exterior of the garment.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, garment 12 is a shirt or similar article of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a user's upper body or torso. However, other embodiments include other types of garments, including pants or other articles of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a user's lower body. The illustrated garment 12 includes a torso portion 20 and first and second limb portions 22 and 24 extending from the torso portion, respectively. When worn, torso portion 20 is configured to extend over or around all or a portion of a user's torso, and the illustrated embodiment includes a first portion 26 configured to cover an upper portion of the torso, such as the shoulders and / or chest, and a second portion 28 configured to cover a lower portion of the torso, such as the waist and / or buttocks (e.g., the area surrounding the user's pelvis). The first and second limb portions 22 and 24 are long-sleeved in the illustrated embodiment and include a first portion or upper arm portion 30 and a second portion or lower arm portion 32. The upper arm portions 30 of the first and second limbs 22 and 24 are configured to cover at least a portion of a user's upper arm, and the lower arm portions 32 are configured to cover at least a portion of a user's lower arm. While Figures 1A and 1B show a long-sleeved shirt, other embodiments of the garment 12 include short-sleeved shirts (e.g., shirts that do not include the lower arm portions 32). In some embodiments, the smart garment 10 can be water-resistant or waterproof.

[0055] In embodiments, the garment 12 may be formed from one or more textile panels or components, each comprising one or more layers of material, by conventional or other known approaches. Stitching, sewing, laminating, thermal bonding, and adhesive bonding are examples of methods by which the panels or components of the garment 12 may be attached to one another. For example, each of the first and second limbs 22 and 24 may be formed separately from the torso 20 from one or more components of material by approaches including stitching, sewing, adhesive, laminating, or welding, and then attached to the torso by stitching, sewing, adhesive, laminating, or welding. The material of the first and second limbs 22 and 24 may be the same or different from the material of the torso 20. The torso 20 may be formed from one or more components of material having one or more layers. In embodiments, for example, first portion 26 and second portion 28 of body portion 20 are separately formed from one or more pieces of material and attached to one another by approaches such as stitching, sewing, gluing, laminating, or welding.

[0056] Non-limiting examples of suitable materials from which garment 12 can 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, textile substrates can be made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, silk, flax, hemp, jute, sisal, cellulose, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, the material can be made from a polymeric material, optionally one or more of silicone, polyurethane, polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate and / or polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6, polyaramid such as NOMEX® aramid or KEVLAR® aramid, acrylic, fluoropolymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), acrylate, methacrylate, polyether, polyesteramide, polyetheramide, polyetherester, polyetherurethane, polyesterurethane or polyetheresterurethane, or copolymers, blends or multi-layer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the textile substrate can be flexible, extensible and / or elastic, and / or breathable, with a water vapor transmission rate of 1000 g / m or more. 2 / day, over 50,000g / m 2 / day (MVTR test as disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)). As used herein, the term "elastic" means a substrate that can be stretched to a length of 5% or more of its original, untensioned length and recovers 90% or more of its original length when the tension is released. In other embodiments, the substrate can be stretched to about 100% of its original, untensioned length and recovers 80% or more of its original length when the tension is released. Conventional or other known weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, tatting, felting, banding, or braiding processes are non-limiting examples of methods that can be used to manufacture materials for textile embodiments of substrate 118.

[0057] In some embodiments, the garment is an upper-body garment (e.g., a shirt) including a torso portion, and the first and second portions 26, 28 of the torso portion 20 have different characteristics, e.g., to provide different fit characteristics when worn by a user. For example, the size and / or elasticity of the second portion 28, or at least a portion of the second portion 28, may be different from the size and / or elasticity of the first portion 26, such that the second portion 28, including or at least including the pocket 16, fits more closely and snugly around the user's waist and / or buttocks than the first portion 26 fits around the user's chest. In some embodiments, the first portion 26 is configured to extend around the user's torso when worn, the first portion 26 having a first diameter in an unstretched state. The second portion 28 attached to the first portion is also configured to extend around the user's torso, the second portion 26 having a second diameter in an unstretched state that is smaller than the first diameter. 10A and 10B illustrate an embodiment of garment 12 having a first portion 26 sized and shaped to fit relatively loosely around portions of the user's body, including loose portions that are not under tension, such as when the user's arms are not extended. A second portion 28 is sized and shaped to fit relatively tighter than first portion 26 and can be under tension around the user's hips, thereby preventing or minimizing potential disruption or undesired movement of electronic components 18. Upper portion 26 and / or first or second limbs 22 and 28 can be sized to provide sufficient comfort when worn by a user so that the user's movement is not substantially restricted or impeded, while still providing sufficient comfort so that sensor harness 14 is positioned accurately enough relative to the user's body to facilitate accurate collection of movement data. In these types of embodiments, second portion 28 can have a diameter in an unstretched state that is smaller than the diameter of first portion 26 in its unstretched configuration. Alternatively or additionally, the resilience of second portion 28 (eg, the circumferential or diametrical direction in which second portion 28 is compressed against the user's torso) may be greater than the resilience of first portion 26.

[0058] 2A and 2B are detailed views of the exterior and interior portions of the torso portion 20 of the garment 12, respectively, including an attachment structure 16 in the form of a tunnel 17. In some embodiments, the electronics attachment structure comprises a pocket having one opening to the interior or exterior of the torso portion. In other embodiments, the electronics attachment structure comprises a tunnel having at least two openings 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 (e.g., by stitching, laminating, adhesive, or welding) to the second portion 28 of the torso portion. The tunnel 17 includes an opening, e.g., at its upper end 21, sized to facilitate insertion and removal of the electronics 18. A slot 19 through the material of the garment 12 can be used to provide components of the sensor harness 14 access to the tunnel 17; in the illustrated embodiment, the slot 19 opens to the interior of the tunnel 17. Slot 19 may be oriented parallel to the opening or in any direction relative to the opening, for example, approximately 180° relative to the opening, to facilitate insertion of sensor harness components into tunnel 17. As described in more detail below, a portion of sensor harness 14 may extend from inside garment 12 through the garment material into tunnel 17 to facilitate connection of the sensor harness to electronics 18. The configuration of garment 12 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B may cover and shield both sensor harness 14 and electronics 18 from view from outside the garment when the user is wearing the garment. In another embodiment, the garment includes a pocket attached to the torso on at least one side, at least a portion of which is open to receive the sensor harness, the electronics, or both. The sensor harness is coupled to the electronics, and the combined sensor harness / electronics is positioned within the pocket and held securely in place during use.

[0059] 2A and 2B are shown in particular locations on garment 12 (e.g., the back and sides), in other embodiments, attachment structure 16 is located in other locations on garment 12 (e.g., other locations on the back, or other locations, such as the front of the garment). An advantage of locating attachment structure 16 on the exterior of garment 12 is that it allows a user to more easily access electronic component 18 and to easily attach and remove electronic component 18. In other embodiments, attachment structure 16 is located in other locations, such as on the interior of garment 12 or between multiple layers of material forming the garment.

[0060] FIG. 11 illustrates an attachment structure 16 including a tunnel 47 in the second portion 28 of the garment 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the tunnel 47 is defined by two portions of material 49 and 51 that overlap each other to form a tunnel between the portions of material. For example, one or more pieces of material can be folded at an edge 53 (e.g., the edge 53 defining the bottom of the garment 12), with the side of the piece of material opposite the edge 53 attached to the first portion 26 of the garment. In an embodiment, the tunnel 47 can extend around all or part of the second portion 28 of the garment 12. The tunnel can include an opening 55 to the exterior of the torso portion and can be used to provide access to the tunnel 47. The torso portion can further include a connector opening through which portions of the multiple wires and electrical connector components extend into the tunnel. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, for example, the opening 55 is defined by an edge 57 of the portion of material 51 that is not attached to the first portion 26 of the garment 12. In some embodiments, the openings or slots in the pockets and / or tunnels may be elastic to help retain the sensor harness and / or electronic components.

[0061] 2A and 2B as tunnel 17 and in FIG. 11 as tunnel 47 for illustrative purposes, attachment structure 16 can take other forms in other embodiments. For example, alternatively or additionally, attachment structure 16 can include one or more of a snap fastener element, a hook-and-loop fastener element, adhesive, a clip, a belt, stitching, a pillowcase flap, an interior surface of a non-slip material, a zipper or other mount or fastener, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the tunnel, pocket, or other portion can include an anti-static and / or electron-shielding material.

[0062] 3 and 1A and 1B illustrate a sensor harness 14. As shown, the sensor harness 14 includes multiple 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 by a conductive webbing or electrical cable 48. The cable 48 includes multiple flexible conductive wires 50 supported by a flexible substrate or base 52.

[0063] The sensor harness 14 in the illustrated embodiment is generally T-shaped when extended and includes a first torso section 60, a second torso section 62, a first sleeve section 64, and a second sleeve section 66. The first torso section 60 is configured to extend generally transversely across the torso section 20 of the garment 12 and, in the illustrated embodiment, extends across the back of the garment between the portions of the garment that cover the user's shoulders when the garment is worn. The first sensor 40 is shown positioned on the first torso section 60 in a position that will be positioned adjacent to an upper center position of the user's back when the garment is worn, e.g., below the base of the user's neck. The second torso section 62 is configured to extend generally longitudinally downward across the torso section 20 of the garment 12 and, in the illustrated embodiment, extends from the first torso section 60 and first sensor 40 along the back of the garment. The connector plug 46 is positioned on the second torso section 62 at an end opposite the first torso section 60. The length of the cable 48 portion of the second torso portion 62 of the sensor harness 14 is long enough to allow the connector plug 46 to be placed in the attachment structure 16 of the garment 12 when the garment 12 is worn, and the connector plug 46 to be retained in the attachment structure 16 without substantially restricting or impeding the user's movement. The first sleeve 64 and the second sleeve 66 extend from opposite sides or ends of the first torso portion 60 and are configured to extend along the respective limbs 22 and 24 of the garment 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sleeve 64 and the second sleeve 66 are configured to extend across the outer sides of the limbs 22 and 24 of the garment 12. The sensors 41 and 43 are positioned on the sleeves 64 and 66 of the sensor harness 14 in locations that will be positioned adjacent to the user's upper arms, e.g., near the biceps, when the garment 12 is worn. Sensors 42 and 44 are positioned on sleeves 64 and 66 of sensor harness 14 in locations that will be positioned adjacent the user's lower arms, for example, near the wrists, when garment 12 is worn.

[0064] The sensor harness 14 may include a plurality of conductive wires 50, such as, for example, individual wires, and / or a cable 48, such as, for example, a ribbon-type or bundled or twisted multi-conductor wire. In certain embodiments, the cable 48 and / or wires 50 may be extensible (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 extensibility of the flexible base 52. According to certain embodiments, the wires 50 may be disposed and / or attached on or adjacent to a surface of the flexible base 52, within the thickness of the base, or within tunnels or channels in the base. Additionally, the flexible base 52 and harness 14 may be water-resistant or waterproof, or may be configured to withstand machine washing or other cleaning.

[0065] Advantageously, the sensor harness 14 can retain its conductive performance over a range of stretch and / or flex, thereby reducing the likelihood of the cable becoming inoperable due to stretch and / or flex of the garment 12. For example, the sensor harness 14 experiences a negligible change in resistance when stretched to 50% strain of the sensor harness 14's original relaxed configuration. As defined herein, "strain" is intended to refer to the stretching of the flexible base 52 relative to the original relaxed configuration. In some embodiments, the sensor harness 14 experiences a negligible change in resistance when stretched to 100% strain or even greater than 100% strain. 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 wire 50 is intended to describe a structure that provides a continuous line or pathway capable of conducting electrons. Wire 50 can be formed separately from and attached to base 50. In exemplary embodiments, wire 50 includes an insulating or non-conductive region, such as, for example, a dielectric coating. Conventional or other known cables 48 suitable for use in sensor harness 14 and / or garment 12 can be used as electrical conductors.

[0067] In certain examples, the plurality of wires 50 can be fixed or attached to the exterior surface of the flexible base 52 and / or can be braided, woven, or otherwise integrated into the thickness or on or adjacent to the surface of the flexible base 52. Non-limiting examples of suitable flexible bases 52 include woven, knitted, or nonwoven textile substrates made from natural or synthetic fibers, filaments, yarns, or any combination thereof. For example, textile substrates can be made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, silk, flax, hemp, jute, sisal, cellulose, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, the textile substrate may be made from one or more of a polymeric material, possibly silicone, polyurethane, polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate and / or polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6, polyaramid such as NOMEX® aramid or KEVLAR® aramid, acrylic, fluoropolymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), acrylate, methacrylate, polyether, polyesteramide, polyetheramide, polyetherester, polyetherurethane, polyesterurethane or polyetheresterurethane, or copolymers, blends or multilayer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the textile substrate may be flexible, elastic and / or breathable, having a water vapor transmission rate of 1000 g / m or more. 2 / day, over 50,000g / m2 / day (MVTR test disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)).

[0068] In certain instances, the wire 50 can be secured or attached to the exterior surface of a flexible base 52 comprising a film or membrane. Non-limiting examples of suitable film or membrane flexible bases 52 include natural materials such as leather or fur, or polymeric materials, possibly one or more of silicone, polyurethane, polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate and / or polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6, polyaramid such as NOMEX® aramid or KEVLAR® aramid, acrylic, fluoropolymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), acrylate, methacrylate, polyether, polyesteramide, polyetheramide, polyetherester, polyetherurethane, polyesterurethane, or polyetheresterurethane, or copolymers, blends, or multi-layer laminates thereof. In some embodiments, the film or membrane substrate can be flexible, elastic, and / or breathable, with a water vapor transmission rate of 1000 g / m 2 / day, over 50,000g / m 2 / day (MVTR test disclosed in DIN EN ISO 15496 (2004)).

[0069] Elastic embodiments of the flexible base 52 can have a stretch of 5% or more and a recovery of 90% or more. In other embodiments, the elastic substrate can have a stretch of 100% or less and a recovery of 80% or more. Embodiments of the flexible base 52 are woven, knitted, or nonwoven textiles comprising intertwined filament structures such as yarns, threads, or fibers. Conventional or other known weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, tatting, felting, banding, or braiding processes are non-limiting examples of methods that can be used to manufacture materials for textile embodiments of the flexible base 52.

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

[0071] Embodiments include an adhesive for attaching all or a portion of the wire 50 to the flexible base 52 (e.g., the adhesive is disposed between the conductive wire and the base). Conventional or other known adhesives suitable for application to the wire 50 and flexible base 52 can be used to attach the conductive wire to the surface of the base. Non-limiting examples of such adhesives include polyurethane, polyester, polyolefin, epoxy, acrylate, and methacrylate. In embodiments, the adhesive attaching the wire 50 to the flexible base 52 is disposed in discrete locations spaced apart from one another 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 to attach all or a portion of the wire 50 to the flexible base 52 (e.g., the potting material extends from one or more sides or top of the conductive wire onto the base to at least partially overcoat or encapsulate a portion of the wire and an adjacent portion of the base, thereby securing the wire to the surface of the base). Conventional or other known potting materials suitable for 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 the adhesives described above. In embodiments, the potting material attaching the conductive wire 50 to the flexible base 52 is disposed at discrete, spaced-apart locations 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 stitching to attach all or a portion of the conductive wire 50 to the flexible base 52. For example, a filament such as a thread or wire can be wrapped over and around the conductive wire and into or through the flexible base 52 by conventional or other known stitching approaches. Still other embodiments include other mechanical structures, such as staples, to secure the wire 50 to the flexible base 52.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, all or a portion of the conductive wire 50 can be woven, knitted, or otherwise inserted into the material of the flexible base 52 (e.g., within the thickness of the substrate or disposed on or near the surface of the substrate) to attach the conductive wire to the base. For example, in some instances, the wire 50 can be woven, knitted, or otherwise inserted into the flexible base 52 during the manufacture of the textile substrate. In other instances, the conductive wire 50 can be woven, knitted, or otherwise inserted into the flexible base 52 after the flexible base is manufactured.

[0075] As used herein, "fixed" or "attached" means that wire 50, fabricated separately from base 50, is bonded to the base (e.g., on or adjacent to a surface of the base and / or within the thickness of the base) or otherwise maintained or retained on the base. In at least some of the embodiments described above, for example, conductive wire 50 is "fixed" or "attached" to flexible base 52 by a method performed after and / or during fabrication of the base.

[0076] To accommodate the stretchability and / or flexibility of the cable 48 and the flexible base 52, the conductive wires 50 can have properties that give them stretchability (e.g., effective elongation) when a portion of the base to which they are attached stretches and / or bends. In certain embodiments, for example, the wires 50 can define a zigzag, sinusoidal, or other serpentine path to effectively stretch and accommodate the stretchability and / or bending of the flexible base 52 to which they are attached. The zigzag, sinusoidal, or other serpentine path can include conductive wires with predictable and / or repeatable spacing and / or curvature. The curvature can be greater than the minimum bend radius of the conductive wire. The spacing can be sufficient to achieve desired electrical properties (e.g., impedance, capacitance, attenuation, crosstalk, etc.). The sinusoidal path of the wires 50 can be oriented in the x-y plane of the flexible base 52 and disposed generally on the surface of the base. In embodiments, the wire 50 may be attached to the flexible base 52 by certain fibers of the base that cover a portion of the wire. The wire 50 may be attached to the flexible base 52, for example, during the process by which the base is knitted or woven. Due to its serpentine nature, the conductive wire 50 is effectively stretchable and bendable, and can stretch and bend to accommodate the stretching and / or bending of the flexible base 52 to which it is attached.

[0077] Each of the sensors 40-44 is an electronic device configured to collect data from a user wearing the smart garment 10 and / or provide electrical information representing the data to the electronic component 18 via the wires 50 and connector plug 46. The sensors 40-44 may be configured to sense and collect, for example, user movement and / or position data, and / or user physiological data (e.g., pulse rate data, blood pressure data, oxygen saturation data, cardiac data, and / or respiratory data), and / or environmental data (e.g., temperature, humidity, barometric pressure). Non-limiting examples of such sensors 40-44 include accelerometers, strain gauges, biometric sensors, temperature sensors, ECG sensors, EMG sensors, blood oxygen sensors, blood glucose sensors, magnetometers, gyroscopes, wireless communication devices, heart rate sensors, sweat sensors, pressure sensors, atmospheric oxygen sensors, air quality sensors, humidity sensors, sound level sensors, global positioning sensors (GPS), or combinations thereof. Each sensor 40-44 may include multiple sensors configured to collect redundant and / or different types of data.

[0078] The sensors 40-44 are coupled to the connector plug 46 via one or more wires 50. The wires 50 may include any known or other conventional structure for coupling electrical signals, including, for example, printed ink conductors and metal wires. While five wires 50 are shown in FIG. 3 for illustrative purposes, 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 operation of each sensor (e.g., to provide power as needed) and to couple collected data to the connector plug 46. While shown as including a multi-conductor cable 48, other embodiments of the sensor harness 14 may include one or more single wires, such as the wires 50.

[0079] 1A, 1B, and 3 have five sensors 40-44, other embodiments have more or fewer sensors. For example, a short-sleeve embodiment of smart garment 12 in the form of a shirt may lack sensors such as sensors 42 and 44 configured to be positioned adjacent a user's lower arm. Embodiments may alternatively or additionally position one or more sensors on sensor harness 14 in a position such that, when sensor harness is attached to garment 12, the sensor is positioned adjacent the waist or wrist of a user wearing the garment.

[0080] The sensor harness 14 preferably (1) positions the sensors 40-44 in desired, predetermined locations on the garment to facilitate accurate data collection when the garment is worn, (2) is secure enough to facilitate washing or other cleaning of the smart garment without portions of the sensor harness excessively moving or detaching from the garment, and / or (3) is attached to the garment 12 in a manner that allows for 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 discarding or recycling the garment). Some or all of the sensor harness 14 may be disposed on either or both the inside and outside of the garment 12. In embodiments, some or all of the sensor harness 14 may be disposed 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 embodiments, all or a portion of the sensor harness 14 is covered with a material, for example, to minimize or reduce the visibility of the sensor harness 14 when the smart garment 10 is worn and / or to enhance the visual appearance of the smart garment.

[0081] FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of the torso portion 20 and first limb 22 of garment 12 in the form of a long-sleeved shirt, including a harness cover 70 for securing first sleeve 64 of sensor harness 14 to the garment. In the illustrated embodiment, harness cover 70 is formed from a plurality of cover tunnel sections 72 and 74 formed by a material member attached to garment 12 (e.g., by stitching 76 to the side edges of the material member). Cover tunnel sections 72 and 74 define passageways, channels, or tunnels 75 with the material surface of torso portion 20. Harness cover 70 can include openings 78 at locations on garment 12 (e.g., first limb 22) where sensors, such as sensors 41 and 42, are located. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, opening 78 between cover tunnel sections 72 and 74 is located at the desired location of sensor 41, and opening 78 at the end of cover tunnel section 74 opposite cover tunnel section 72 is located at the desired location of sensor 42. The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 includes a sensor cover 80 that covers one or more of sensors 41 and 42, forming a barrier between the sensors and the skin of a user wearing the garment. Sensor cover 80 can reduce irritation or discomfort that may result from direct physical contact of sensors, such as sensors 41 and 42, with the user's skin, and also acts as a barrier to minimize or otherwise reduce the likelihood that skin and other body tissue, such as sweat, may contact the sensors and adversely affect their operation. In some embodiments, sensor cover 80 is configured to attach associated one or more of the sensors to the garment. This sensor cover 80 can help reduce sensor movement, potentially providing more accurate movement data.

[0082] Tunnel 75 is sized to securely secure a portion of sensor harness 14, such as cable 48, to garment 12. Harness cover 70 is formed before sensor harness 14 is attached to garment 12, and tunnel 75 is made large enough to facilitate insertion of first sleeve 64 of sensor harness 14 through the tunnel. In these types of embodiments, sensor harness 14 can be detached or removed from garment 12 by pulling sensor harness 14 through harness cover 70. In other embodiments, harness cover 70 is attached to garment 12 over cable 48 and / or other portions of sensor harness 14. Tunnel 75 does not need to be large enough to accommodate sensors, such as sensors 41 and 42 in these embodiments. In these types of embodiments, cover tunnel sections 72 and 74 can be detached from garment 12 to provide an opening for removing sensor harness 14 from the garment. For example, stitching or other structures, such as adhesive or other bonds, can be removed or destroyed to provide an opening for removing sensor harness 14. Alternatively or additionally, cover tunnel sections 72 and 74 may be cut along their lengths to provide openings for removing sensor harness 14 .

[0083] 4 for illustrative purposes, cover tunnel structures substantially the same as or similar to harness cover 70 can be formed on garment 12 at appropriate locations for securing first torso portion 60, second torso portion 62, and second sleeve portion 64 of sensor harness 14 to garment 12. For example, a harness cover such as harness cover 70 can be placed at the center of the back of garment 12 and extend vertically downward from near the collar to the bottom of the garment to secure second torso portion 62 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1B).

[0084] Tunnels such as tunnel 75 can also be formed by other structural arrangements. For example, one or more pintuck tunnels (not shown) can be formed from the material of garment 12 by folding and folding a portion of the garment over to form a two-layer flap extending in the desired tunnel direction and location, and attaching (e.g., by stitching) the free end of the flap and the edge of the flap that abuts the other portions of the garment material to the garment material. This defines the tunnel between the two-layer flap and the adjacent portion of garment 12. An opening can be formed in the material of the flap at the desired location for the sensor. As yet another example, in garment 12 formed from multiple layers of material, the tunnel can be defined between the multiple layers of material (e.g., by stitching), and an opening can be formed in the inner layer of the material at the desired location for the sensor. In some embodiments, harness cover 70 and sensor cover 80 can each be independently formed from a textile or polymer encapsulant. In some embodiments, harness cover 70 and sensor cover 80 are made from the same textile as garment 10. In some embodiments, the harness cover 70 and the sensor cover 80 are made from a different textile than the garment 10 .

[0085] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary snap fastener structure 90 that can be used to secure the sensor harness 14 to the garment 12. The snap fastener structure 90 includes a first fastener component 92 and a second, complementary fastener component 94 that can be releasably mechanically coupled to one another. The first fastener component 92, shown in this example as having a receiving member 96, is attached to the garment 12. The second fastener component 94, shown in this example as having a post 98 that is received by the receiving member 96 of the first fastener component 92, is attached to the sensor harness 14. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the second fastener component 94 is attached to the sensor 41. The first fastener component 92 can be positioned on a surface of the garment 12 (not shown in FIG. 5) where it is desired to secure the sensor 41 to the garment, such as the upper arm 30. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more snap fastener structures, such as the snap fastener structure 90, can be positioned in other corresponding locations on the garment 12 and the sensor harness 14 (e.g., the cable 48) to releasably secure those portions of the sensor harness to desired locations on the garment.

[0086] Other embodiments of the smart garment 12 include other types of removable fastener structures (e.g., hook and loop fasteners) having complementary parts for attaching the sensor harness 14 to the garment 12. One or more removable fastener structures, such as removable fastener structure 90, can also be used in combination with one or more harness cover structures, such as the harness cover structure 70 described above. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor harness 14 can be attached to the garment 12 by other structures or approaches, such as stitching, adhesives, and / or staples (e.g., the cable 48 can be sewn into the material of the garment 12).

[0087] Figure 6 is an isometric view of an electronic component 18 including a connector socket 100, according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is an isometric view of a portion of a sensor harness 14 including an embodiment of a connector plug 46 that can be mechanically and electrically coupled to a cable 48 and an electronic component 18, according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is an isometric view of the connector plug 46 mechanically and electrically coupled to the connector socket 100 of the electronic component 18. The electronic component 18 including the connector socket 100 and the connector plug 46 cooperate 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 major wall 106, first, second, third, and fourth side walls 108, 110, 112, and 114, respectively, and a second main wall (not visible in FIG. 6 ). The first, second, third, and fourth side walls 108, 110, 112, and 114 have edges joined to and extending between the edges of the first and second main walls 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 receptacle 120 in a first major wall 106 of the housing 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacle 120 is disposed adjacent to a side wall 108 of the housing 104 and opens or extends into the housing from the side wall 108. The illustrated embodiment of the receptacle 120 thereby defines an opening that extends into the housing 104 through intersecting edges 122 of the first main wall 106 and the side wall 108. The receptacle 120, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally rectangular in shape and is defined by a bottom or receptacle 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 first main wall 106 and an edge of the contact wall opposite the side wall 108. The sidewall 132 extends between the sidewall 108 and the side edge of the inner wall 136 and between the first major wall 106 and the side edge of the contact wall 130. Similar to the sidewall 132, but on the side of the receptacle 120 opposite the contact wall 130 and the inner wall 136, the sidewall 134 extends between the sidewall 108 and the side edge of the inner wall 136 and between the first major wall 106 and the side edge of the contact wall 130. In some embodiments, the contact wall 130 can be essentially flush 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 receptacle 120 includes the lip or raised portion 131 at the edge of the receptacle adjacent the sidewall 108. The surface of the contact wall 130 can be recessed relative to the raised portion 131. The raised portion 131 can engage complementary features on the connector plug 14 to help hold the electronic component 18 and the connector plug 46 in a mated 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 (two are shown in FIG. 6 for illustrative purposes) extend into the receptacle from one or both of the receptacle side walls 132 or 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 140 extend into the receptacle 120 from each of the receptacle side walls 132 and 134 at locations adjacent the housing side wall 108. The tabs 140 are generally rectangular in cross section and extend substantially the entire height of the receptacle side walls or the entire depth of the receptacle 120 (e.g., in the direction between the first major wall 106 and the contact wall 130). As shown in FIG. 6 , in the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 140 are configured to define the receptacle 120 to include spaces between the tabs on both the first major wall 106 and the housing side wall 108. In other embodiments (not shown), the one or more tabs 140 can have other configurations, such as shapes and sizes.

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

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

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

[0094] 9 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary physical components (e.g., hardware) of electronics 116 that may be incorporated into electronic component 18 and communicatively coupled to sensor harness 14 (e.g., to sensors 40-44) as described herein. In a basic configuration, electronics 116 is configured as a computing device or controller with data interface capabilities and may include at least one processing unit 802 and system memory 804. Depending on the configuration and type of computing device, 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 such memory. System memory 804 may include one or more components, such as an operating system 805 and a sensing and processing component 820.

[0095] For example, operating system 805 may be suitable for controlling the operation of electronic device 116. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in combination with graphics libraries, other operating systems, or other application programs and are not limited to any particular application or system. This basic configuration is illustrated in FIG. 9 by the components within dashed line 808. Electronic device 116 may have additional features or functionality. For example, electronic device 116 may also include additional data storage devices (removable and / or non-removable). Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 9 by removable storage device 809 and non-removable storage device 810. Removable storage devices, such as removable storage device 809, may be used to transfer information collected from sensor harness 14 to other systems for use or analysis (e.g., the operation of an application or other program on a computer system or mobile device).

[0096] As mentioned above, a number of program modules and data files may be stored in the system memory 804. While executing on the processing unit 802, the program modules 806 (e.g., sensing and processing component 820) may perform processes, including but not limited to, aspects such as those described herein, e.g., data sensing aspects.

[0097] Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented on electrical circuits including discrete electronic elements, packaged or integrated electronic chips including logic gates, microprocessor-based circuits, or a single chip including electronic elements or a microprocessor. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented via a system-on-chip (SOC) in which each or many of the components shown in FIG. 9 may be integrated onto a single integrated circuit. Such an SOC device may include one or more processing units, graphics units, communications units, system virtualization units, and various application functions, all integrated (or "burned") onto the chip substrate as a single integrated circuit. When operating via an SOC, the functionality described herein regarding the client's ability to switch protocols may operate via application-specific logic integrated with other components of the electronics 116 on a single integrated circuit (chip). Embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented using other technologies capable of performing logical operations such as AND, OR, and NOT, including, but not limited to, mechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented within a general-purpose computer or other circuit or system.

[0098] The electronics 116 may also have one or more input devices 812, such as a visual image sensor, an audio sensor, a sound or voice input device, a touch or swipe input device, etc. Output devices 814, such as a display, a speaker, etc., may also be included. The aforementioned devices are examples, and other devices may be used. The electronics 116 may include one or more communication connections 816 that enable communication with other computing devices. The computing devices may, for example, process and analyze data collected by the sensor harness 14 or use it in other ways (e.g., in an application or other program operation on a computer system or mobile device). Examples of suitable communication connections 816 include, but are not limited to, radio frequency (RF) transmitter, receiver, and / or transceiver circuitry, a universal serial bus (USB), a parallel port, and / or a serial port. In other embodiments, the electronics 18 may further include any one or more of the motion, position, physiological, and / or environmental data sensors described herein.

[0099] The term computer-readable medium, as used herein, can include computer storage media. Computer storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of 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 devices). Computer storage media can include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or other articles of manufacture that can be used to store information and that can be accessed by electronic device 116. Any such computer storage media can 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 be embodied by 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 includes any information delivery media. The term "modulated data signal" may describe a signal that has one or more characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode 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] 6-8 , the connector plug 46 includes a body 200 having an engaging portion 202, an overmolded portion 203, and one or more second electrical contacts 204 on the engaging portion. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple second electrical contacts 204 are shown. A cable 48 extends from the body 200, and each wire 50 of the cable (not visible in FIGS. 7 or 8 ) is electrically coupled to at least one of the second electrical contacts 204 via a support member (not shown). In some embodiments, the connector plug includes a support member, and the second electrical contacts are attached to the support member. The engaging portion 202 of the body 200 is configured to engage with the receptacle 120 of the connector socket 100 (e.g., positioned, sized, and shaped to fit within the receptacle) and is defined by a bottom wall 210, a top wall 212, side walls 214 and 216, and an end wall 218. The overmolded portion 203 extends from the side of the mating portion 202 opposite the end wall 218 and 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 overmolded portion 203 extend generally flush 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 overmolded portion 203 has a different configuration. Yet other embodiments (not shown) of the connector plug 46 do not include the overmolded portion 203. The connector plug 46 can be a unitarily molded member. For example, the engagement portion 202 can be formed from a first polymer member and a second polymer member (not shown separately) that are joined together to seal the second electrical contact 204 within the body 200, and the overmolded portion 203 can be formed on the body to cover the cable 48 and a portion of the body and enhance the waterproof properties of the body.In some embodiments, connector plug 46 includes a first polymer member, a second polymer member joined to the first polymer member, with a support member sealed between the first and second polymer members, and an overmolded portion sealed to and extending over at least a portion of the first and second polymer members, with a portion of the cable extending from the overmolded portion.

[0102] The second electrical contact 204 of the connector plug 46 is disposed on the mating portion 202 and is configured to cooperate with the first electrical contact 150 of the connector socket 100 to couple an electrical signal from the sensor harness 14 to the electronics 106 of the electronic component 18 when the mating portion is received in the connector socket receptacle 120. In an embodiment, the second electrical contact 204 of the connector plug 46 is in physical mechanical contact with the first electrical contact 150 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug 46 is mated to the connector socket. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrical contact 204 is disposed on a bottom wall 210 of the mating portion 202. The second electrical contact 204 can be a conductive member, such as a metal member, optionally a copper- or gold-plated conductive member, and is fixedly attached to the bottom wall 210. For example, the material forming the mating portion 202 may physically contact at least a peripheral side of the second electrical contact 204 to provide a water-resistant or waterproof seal between the mating portion 202 of the body and the electrical contact 204. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, 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 may be generally flush with 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 engagement portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more tab recesses 230 (two are shown for illustrative purposes) in one or more of the side walls 214 and 216. Each tab recess 230 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and engage 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 still other embodiments (not shown), one or more tabs, such as tab 140, may be located on the connector plug 46 (e.g., rather than on the connector socket 100), and a complementary engagement tab recess, such as complementary engagement tab recess 230, may be located on the connector socket (e.g., rather than on the connector plug).

[0104] The illustrated embodiment of the engaging portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more alignment recesses 232 (three are shown for illustrative purposes) in the end wall 218. Each alignment recess 232 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and engage 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 recesses 232. In yet other embodiments (not shown), one or more alignment structures, such as the alignment structure 146, may be located on the connector plug 46 (e.g., rather than the connector socket 100), and a complementary engaging alignment recess, such as the complementary engaging alignment recess 232, may be located on the connector socket (e.g., rather than the connector plug).

[0105] The illustrated embodiment of the engaging portion 202 of the connector plug 46 includes one or more spring recesses 234 (two are shown for illustrative purposes) in one or more side walls 214 and 216. Each spring recess 234 is configured (e.g., positioned, sized, and / or shaped) to receive and engage one of the springs 144 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug 46 is coupled to the connector socket. Embodiments of the connector plug 46 may not include spring recesses 234, even if the connector socket 100 includes springs 144. Embodiments of the connector plug 46 configured for use with embodiments of the connector socket 100 that do not include springs 144 may not include spring recesses 234. In still other embodiments (not shown), one or more springs, such as spring 144, may be located in the connector plug 46 (e.g., rather than in the connector socket 100), and a complementary engaging spring recess, such as complementary engaging spring recess 234, may be located in the connector socket (e.g., rather than in the connector plug).

[0106] Alternatively or additionally, the connector socket 100 and / or the connector plug 46 may include other structures to enhance and maintain the retention of the connector plug in the connector socket when these connector components are mated. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive may be applied to one or more walls or other surfaces of the connector socket 100 and / or the connector plug 46, which contact the walls or other surfaces of the other components. As another example, hook-and-loop fasteners may be incorporated into the connector socket 100 and the connector plug 46. In another embodiment, the electronic component 18 includes a slide lock (not shown) that can be moved from a first, disengaged position (e.g., parallel or flush 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 the mated position to help retain the connector plug 46 in the mated position. In other embodiments, an elastic band, clip, or other known retention mechanism may be used to retain the connector plug 46 on the electronic component 18.

[0107] The connector plug 46 and the socket connector 100 are configured such that, when mated with one another, the engaging portion 202 of the connector plug 46 is received within the receptacle 120 of the socket connector 100 and the second electrical contacts 204 of the connector plug are electrically coupled to, and in embodiments, physically contact, the associated first electrical contacts 150 of the connector socket 100. A bottom wall 210 of the connector plug 46 is disposed adjacent to, and in embodiments generally parallel to, the bottom wall 130 of the connector socket 100 when the connector plug is mated with the connector socket 100.

[0108] The connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 are connected or attached in a mating relationship by moving the connector plug relative to the connector socket along a mating path. Similarly, the connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 can be removed, disconnected, or separated from the mating relationship by moving the connector plug relative to the connector socket along the mating path. The mating path in the illustrated embodiment extends generally through 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 socket 100 are connected, the connector plug leads the bottom wall 210 during movement along the mating path, effectively entering the receptacle 120 through an opening in the first major wall 106 of the housing 104. Similarly, when the connector plug 46 and the connector socket 100 are disconnected, the connector plug 46 follows the bottom wall 210 during movement along the mating path. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 210 engages the bottom wall 130 during connection. In embodiments, when bottom wall 130 includes ridge 131, bottom wall 210 is shaped to fit against bottom wall 130, and ridge 131 serves to retain connector plug 46 from being removed in a direction other than along the mating path. For example, a portion of engagement portion 202 and / or overmolded portion 203 is recessed relative to bottom wall 210 and defines a shoulder opposite engagement portion end wall 218, the shoulder being configured to engage ridge 131.

[0109] The movement around and direction of the coupling path may be guided by characteristics such as the orientation of one or more of the walls 132, 134, and 136, alignment structure 146, and / or tab 140, and / or ridge 131 of the connector socket 100, and / or the walls 212, 214, and 216, alignment recess 232, and / or tab recess 230 of the connector plug 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the walls 132, 134, and 136, alignment structure 146, and tab 140 of the connector socket 100 and the walls 212, 214, and 216, alignment recess 232, and tab recess 230 of the connector plug 46 are generally perpendicular to the major plane of the first major wall 106 of the housing 104 and generally parallel to the side wall 108 of the housing. Thus, the illustrated embodiment of the connector plug 46 moves along a mating path that is generally perpendicular to the first major wall 106 of the housing when the connector plug is connected to and removed from the connector socket 100. The alignment structure 146, in cooperation with the alignment recess 232, helps to guide and ensure that the connector plug 46 is accurately positioned within the connector socket 100 during connection of the connector plug to the connector socket. In addition to the corresponding cooperating shapes and sizes of the engaging portion 202 of the connector plug 46 and the receptacle 120 of the connector socket 100, the tab 140 of the connector socket, in cooperation with the tab recess 230 of the connector plug, helps to hold the connector plug in a mated position with the connector socket. Similarly, the spring 144 of the connector socket 100 engages the side walls 214 and 216 of the connector plug 46 and, in cooperation with a spring recess, such as the spring recess 234 of the connector plug, helps to hold the connector plug in a mated position with the connector socket.

[0110] As perhaps best shown in FIG. 8 , when the connector plug 46 is mated to the connector socket 100 of the electronic component 18, a portion of the body 202, including at least a portion of the overmolded portion 203, extends from the receptacle 120 beyond the sidewall 108 of the housing 104. In embodiments, a portion of the engaging 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 generally parallel to the first major wall 106 of the housing 104 of the electronic component 18 and, in embodiments, is generally flush or coplanar with the first major wall 106. The illustrated configurations of the connector plug 46 and connector socket 100 resist movement and separation relative to one another along any path extending 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 connector socket 100 causes the connector plug to resist separation from the connector socket in response to a force in any direction other than the direction of the mating path.

[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 an overmolded portion 203 of the body 200. In other embodiments (not shown), for example, without the overmolded portion 203, the cable 48 extends from other portions 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 generally perpendicular to the direction of the mating path along which the connector plug moves when connecting and disconnecting from the connector socket 100. This configuration ensures that separation of the connector plug 46 from the connector socket 100 is resistant to forces exerted by the cable 48 on the connector plug when the smart garment 10 is worn by a user. In other embodiments, advantageous separation resistance characteristics of the connector system can be provided when the cable 48 extends from the body 200 of the connector plug 46 at other angles, for example, between 45° and 135° relative to the mating path.

[0112] The smart garment 10 can provide accurate and reliable data collection from a user wearing the garment. The data can be used for various purposes, such as ergonomic analysis (e.g., back and shoulder ergonomic analysis in shirt or jacket embodiments of the smart garment 10). The smart garment 10 is comfortable to wear and has minimal or no substantial impact on a user's ability to perform routine or expected activities. Prototypes have been demonstrated to provide adequate performance after at least 50 40°C washes / warm tumble dry machine washes and 1,500 mating cycles of the connector plug 46 and connector socket 100.

[0113] Ergonomic sensing data quality can depend, at least in part, on knowledge of sensor location. Smart garment 10 provides these and other characteristics. The sensors are fixed in position and / or orientation and are as close to the body as reasonably possible to provide accurate motion and other data. The smart garment provides comfort, durability, and hygiene when worn, all with a relatively short setup time.

[0114] An embodiment of the smart garment 10 includes, for example, a mid-layer shirt, such as a long-sleeved shirt or jacket made of a high-performance fabric, with an integrated electronic sensor harness that facilitates multi-point upper-body motion capture. An embodiment of the sensor harness includes electronic webbing (e.g., wires knitted into an elastic textile trim), one or more (e.g., five) satellite sensor devices (e.g., each including one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, and / or magnetometers), and a connector. The sensor harness may be T-shaped and electrically connects and positions the satellite sensors (e.g., two on each arm, such as the wrist and upper arm, and one on the neck). The sensors can be permanently attached (e.g., soldered) to the electronic webbing and encapsulated for waterproofness against washing. Encapsulating the sensors and attachment points can help provide a waterproof or water-resistant harness for the smart garment 10. A connector plug 46 terminates at the bottom of the “T” and facilitates connection to electronic components such as a controller. The electronic components can provide control, power, and other functions and can also include sensors (e.g., for sensing motion). The sensor harness can be attached to the garment by stitching or other approaches / structures, for example, attached to the inside of the garment and extending along the back of the arm and down the spine. The sensors can be covered with a textile badge to minimize or prevent interaction with the user's skin. In embodiments where the sensor harness is inside the garment, these electronic components may be essentially invisible. Attaching the sensor harness to the garment allows for easy removal at the end of its life. The harness connector can be placed in a pocket or attached to the garment by other attachment structures. It can also be placed on a tighter-fitting elastic waistband or other part of the garment, such as behind the buttocks. To attach the controller, the user can pull the connector from the pocket, attach it to the controller, and store the controller (and in embodiments, the connector) in the pocket.The connector and pocket can be configured for convenient access by the user, and the pocket can hold the controller relatively securely, thereby obtaining accurate data such as movement from the user's pelvis, physiological data, or other data, and reducing the likelihood of the controller becoming detached from the sensor harness or clothing.

[0115] The electrical connector system facilitates both electrical and mechanical connections. The electrical connection allows power, such as low-voltage current, to flow through the connector through multiple different channels. The mechanical connection allows removable components to be physically coupled to the rest of the system at the user's discretion. The connection allows users to couple and uncouple relatively easily, while posing a relatively low risk of unintended separation. The connector system exhibits several important properties. For example, the garment side of the connector can withstand garment care regimes, including mechanical stress from the laundry process, heat, detergents, stains, and corrosion. The connector is large enough to be handled by a wide range of users, but not so large that it is uncomfortable to wear. The connector system is robust enough to withstand abrasive stresses. For example, stresses do not result in an unacceptable loss of connection when a user walks or moves through an expected range of motion during normal use. The connector system is relatively easy and intuitive to use. The connector system can be efficient to manufacture.

[0116] The connector plug contacts can be relatively large and flush with the body. This provides resistance to contamination and corrosion during cleaning (e.g., as opposed to connectors with recesses or openings that can become clogged with debris during cleaning). The connector plug and connector socket can only be mated in one orientation or way. This can reduce the risks associated with accidental incorrect polarity connection. The 90-degree elbow-shaped embodiment can reduce the size of the connector plug and the overall size of the connector system when mated to the connector socket. For example, the risk of accidental separation can be reduced if the shirt-side cable is pulled in line with the electronic component. Tabs or lugs help maintain retention and also help prevent unintended separation. The use of spring-loaded pin connectors can help ensure robust electrical contact, for example, against vibrations and shocks that the electronic component may experience during use. The springs can be flat springs, which can be configured to counteract the force provided by spring-loaded pin connectors and can be adjusted or replaced as needed. Connector plug embodiments that do not include moving or sensitive parts provide washability. The connector plug profile is flush and minimal. The overmolded portion can provide stress relief or tapering between the connector plug and other components of the sensor harness. The connector plug can be potted, for example with a hot melt compound, to help ensure waterproofing and integrity. In embodiments, only relatively robust components are located within the connector plug to enhance durability through washing cycles.

[0117] The invention of this application has been described above generally and with reference to specific embodiments. It is apparent that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the embodiments cover the modifications and variations of the present invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. Electronic components and a connector plug configured to be mechanically and electrically removably coupled to the electronic component; 1. An electrical connector system comprising: The electronic component is Housing and a receptacle on the housing, the receptacle being defined by one or more receptacle walls, including at least a receptacle contact wall; one or more tabs and / or one or more tab-receiving features on at least one of the one or more receptacle walls; at least one first electrical contact on the receptacle contact wall; Including, The connector plug a body including an engagement portion and one or more tabs and / or one or more tab-receiving features; at least one second electrical contact on the engagement portion; one or more wires extending from the body in a direction non-parallel to the coupling path; Including, an engaging portion of the body configured to engage with the receptacle of the electronic component along a coupling path and to be received in the receptacle in a coupled position with the engaging portion facing the receptacle contact wall, and each of the tab-receiving features of the electronic component and the connector plug configured to receive and engage one of the tabs of the electronic component and the connector plug; each of the second electrical contacts is electrically coupled to one of the first electrical contacts when the engagement portion of the body is in a mating position within the receptacle; each of the one or more wires is electrically connected to one of the second electrical contacts; The electrical connector system, wherein the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being disconnected from the electronic component in a direction in which one or more wires extend from a body of the connector plug.

2. 2. The electrical connector system of claim 1, wherein the electronic component and the connector plug are configured to prevent the connector plug from being disengaged from the electronic component in any direction other than the direction of the mating path.

3. the housing includes a first outer wall; and The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the one or more receptacle walls define the receptacle within the first outer wall of the housing.

4. The electrical connector system of claim 3 , wherein the one or more receptacle walls are generally perpendicular to the first exterior wall of the housing.

5. the housing includes a second outer wall extending from the first outer wall at an edge of the housing; and The electrical connector system of any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the one or more receptacle walls define one or more receptacles within the first outer wall and the second outer wall and through an edge of the housing.

6. 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; The electrical connector system of claim 5 , wherein each of said one or more tabs on said housing extends into an opening in said second outer wall to partially define said receptacle.

7. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising alignment features on one or more of the receptacle walls and the body of the connector plug, the alignment features configured to facilitate one-way engagement of the engaging portion of the body with the electronic component.

8. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a compression spring on one or both of the electronic component and the connector plug to facilitate coupling of the connector plug to the electronic component when the engaging portion of the body is in the coupled position.

9. the compression spring is on the electronic component; and 9. The electrical connector system of claim 8, wherein said connector plug is free of compression springs.

10. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the receptacle and the mating portion of the body are generally rectangular in shape.

11. The electrical connector system of any preceding claim, wherein the first electrical contact comprises a spring-loaded contact extending from the receptacle contact wall into the receptacle.

12. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the second electrical contact is fixedly attached to the engaging portion.

13. 13. The electrical connector system of claim 12, wherein the second electrical contact includes a contact surface having an outer edge, the contact surface being generally parallel to the mating portion.

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

15. 15. The electrical connector system according to claim 12, wherein an outer edge of the second electrical contact is joined to the main body of the engaging portion without any gap.

16. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the body of the connector plug further includes an overmolded portion extending from the engagement portion, and the one or more wires extend from the connector plug at the overmolded portion of the body.

17. 17. The electrical connector system of claim 16, wherein at least a portion of the overmolded portion of the body is disposed outside the housing of the electronic component when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component.

18. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the mating portion of the body and the overmolded portion define a 90° elbow shape.

19. the electronic component housing includes a first outer wall at an edge of the housing and a second outer wall extending from the first outer wall; one or more receptacle walls of the housing define a receptacle within the first outer wall and the second outer wall through the edge of the housing; and 18. The electrical connector system of claim 17, wherein the overmolded portion of the body extends from the housing through a second outer wall of the housing when the connector plug is coupled to the electronic component.

20. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the one or more wires extend at an angle of between 45° and 135° relative to the direction of the coupling path.

21. The electrical connector system of any preceding claim, wherein the contact wall and the engagement portion of the body define a plane that is approximately perpendicular to the direction of the coupling path.

22. the one or more receptacle walls are approximately perpendicular to the first outer wall of the housing; The electrical connector system of any preceding claim, wherein the housing bottom wall is generally parallel to the housing first outer wall.

23. the connector plug includes a support member, the second electrical contact is attached to the support member, and The connector plug a first polymer member; a second polymer member bonded to the first polymer member; an overmolded portion sealed and extending at least partially between the first polymeric member and the second polymeric member; Including, the support member is sealed between the first polymer member and the second polymer member; The electrical connector system of any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the cable extends from the overmolded portion.

24. 24. The electrical connector system according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein one or both of the electronic component and the connector plug are waterproof and adapted to be suitable for repeated machine washing.

25. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the electronic component includes one or more of a controller, a sensor, a transmitter, or a receiver within the housing and coupled to the first electrical contact.

26. 26. The electrical connector system of claim 1, further comprising a wiring harness coupled to the plurality of wires and including one or more sensors, possibly one or more of an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor, the wiring harness configured to be attached to clothing.

27. 27. The electrical connector system of claim 26, further comprising an article of clothing, said wiring harness being attached to said article of clothing.

28. The electrical connector system of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the one or more wires comprises a cable including a plurality of wires, each wire coupled to one of the second electrical contacts.

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