E-textile

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to an e-textile with a magnetic connector. E- textiles are textile materials that incorporate advanced technologies to enhance their functionality beyond traditional fabrics. E-textiles are designed to sense, react, or adapt to various environmental conditions or user inputs. The present invention relates to an e-textile that integrates a removable connector that allows an electronic connection between an external module and textile embedded components such as sensors or alike.

Description

[0001] E-TEXTILE

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003]

[0001] The technical field of this invention is in the area of smart textiles and wearable technology. Specifically, it falls under the category of electronic textiles or e- textiles, which refers to the integration of electronic components or electrically conductive materials into textile fabrics. This invention focuses on developing an e- textile that incorporates magnetic connectors to establish electrical connections with removable electronic modules.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005]

[0002] The concept of e-textiles has been around for several decades, but significant advancements in materials science, electronics, and manufacturing processes have led to the development of practical e-textile technologies in more recent years.

[0006]

[0003] Early experiments with smart textiles date back to the late 20th century, but it wasn't until the late 1990s and early 2000s that more tangible developments and commercial applications started to appear. For instance, researchers started embedding conductive materials into fabrics to create wearable electronic devices, and companies began exploring ways to integrate sensors, actuators, and other electronic components into textiles.

[0007]

[0004] Over the past two decades, there has been considerable progress in the field of e-textiles, driven by advancements in nanotechnology, flexible electronics, and wireless communication technologies. This progress has enabled the creation of sophisticated smart textiles with capabilities such as sensing, actuation, energy harvesting, and connectivity.

[0008]

[0005] Today, e-textiles are increasingly finding their way into various industries, including sports and fitness, healthcare, fashion, automotive, aerospace, and home textiles. Ongoing research and development continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with e-textiles, opening up new opportunities for innovation and applications in the years to come.

[0006] Numerous applications of e-textiles necessitate an electronic link to either a power source or an external device at some stage. This connection serves various purposes, including supplying electrical power for recharging embedded applications or facilitating data transfer between the embedded application and an external module, such as for data collection or readout. While wireless methods can fulfil both power supply and data transfer needs in many cases, certain situations still demand a physical electrical connection.

[0009]

[0007] The need for an electrical connection can vary in duration, either persisting throughout the application's use or being necessary only temporarily. For example, a fabric-embedded application might necessitate a continuous electrical link during operation, especially if it has high power demands or generates substantial data requiring recording by an external module. Conversely, a temporary physical electronic connection might be preferred when wireless charging cannot achieve a very brief battery charging cycle.

[0010]

[0008] In the art, conventional electrical connectors and ports, such as USB ports or snap connectors, are known and are allowing for easy connection to external power sources like batteries or charging stations. These connector types require however some dexterity from the user to establish the connection, and may often not be able to establish a sufficiently reliable connection for the application. This is particularly relevant for e-textile applications intended to be worn by users, as any external connection must withstand vibrations or movements experienced during use and should not disconnect when subjected to shocks.

[0011]

[0009] In order to ensure the electrical connection between the e-textile and a power supply or external device, conventional electrical connectors use mechanical connections means such as pins and corresponding holes. Such mechanical connection means not only require a certain level of dexterity from the user, but they are often fragile and sensitive to shocks.

[0012] Summary of the Invention

[0013]

[0010] The following is a summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of this section is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0014]

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention an e-textile as set out in claim 1 is provided. The e-textile comprises an electrically non-conductive substrate, a substrate-integrated electronic circuit and a magnetic connector for electrically connecting the substrate-integrated electronic circuit to a removable electronic module having contact points. The magnetic connector comprises multiple spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate, each patch electrically connected to the substrate-integrated electronic circuit and multiple permanent magnets at a second side of the substrate at an opposite side of the contact patches. The number of spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate is in principle not limited. In preferred embodiments the number of spatially arranged contact patches ranges between 2 and 10 and is for example 3, 4, 5 or 6. The contact patches can be arranged in different spatial arrangements. The contact patches are for example positioned at the vertices of a polygon such as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon or the contact patches can be positioned in a circle. In other spatial arrangements the contact patches are positioned at the vertices of a polygon as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon with some additional contact patches in the area defined by the vertices. A preferred spatial arrangement comprises 5 contact patches of which 4 contact patches are positioned on the vertices of a square and 1 contact patch is positioned at the center of the square.

[0015]

[0012] In the context of the invention an e-textile has to be understood as a textile material that incorporates advanced technologies to offer functionalities beyond those of traditional fabrics. These fabrics are designed to measure, sense, react, or adapt to various environmental conditions or user inputs. They can be used in a wide range of applications across different industries due to their versatility and innovative capabilities. E-textiles typically consist of several key components that enable them to perform their intended functions. These components can vary depending on the specific application and functionality of the e-textile. In essence the e-textile comprises at least a substrate in combination with conductive materials, preferably electrically conductive materials that are part of an electronic circuit.

[0016]

[0013] The e-textile is usually used in clothing or garment applications. In such applications it can be preferred that certain parts of the e-textile are in close contact with the wearers body when in use, preferably without compromising the comfort of wearing the clothing or garment, or compromising the quality and reliability of the electronic connection. The e-textile can also be used for a variety of other applications, such as covering or cladding surfaces, upholstery, and even in the construction of sails or canvases.

[0017] Substrate

[0018]

[0014] The substrate is the base material of the e-textile. Preferably, the substrate provides the e-textile flexibility, comfort and functionality. The substrate is electrically non-conductive. The substrate therefore provides for electrical insulation between the two sides or surfaces of the substrate. In case that on one side of the substrate an electrically conductive layer or material is applied, the electrical signal is not passed on to the other side of the substrate. The substrate therefore serves as an insulating barrier for the electronic signal on one side of the substrate. This feature has the advantage that when the substrate of the e-textile is in close contact with for instance the skin of the garments’ wearer or a moist environment, there is no risk that the electrical connection would suffer from loss in connection quality because of direct contact of the electrically conducting portions with the skin of the wearer of the garment.

[0019]

[0015] In the context of this invention, an electrically non-conductive material or substrate is a material which has very high electrical resistivities, often greater than 104Q-m, for example greater than 106Q-m, greater than 108Q-m or greater than 101° Q-m. Electrically conductive materials typically have low electrical resistivities, typically in the range of 10-8to 10-4Q-m, for example a resistivity of 10-7Q-m., 10'6Q m or 10-5Q-m.

[0020]

[0016] The substrate can be made of natural fibres, such as for instance cotton, wool, or silk, or can be made of man-made fibres, such as for instance polyester, polyamide or nylon, or a combination of the above, all of which are electrically non-conductive materials. The substrate comprises for example a textile fabric for example a non-woven, a woven, a knitted or a braided fabric.

[0021]

[0017] In general, all materials that are applied for example in clothing and footwear may be considered as a substrate in an e-textile. For instance, also leather may be considered as a substrate in e-textile.

[0018] Alternatively, the substrate may comprise a membrane or film, preferably a flexible membrane or film. Examples comprise polyethylene (PE) films, polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membranes or films.

[0022]

[0019] The substrate may comprise a monolayer structure or a multilayer structure.

[0023]

[0020] Furthermore, the substrate or one or more layers of the substrate may be provided with one or more coated layers, for example to add an additional functionality such as water-repellence.

[0024] Substrate-integrated electronic circuit

[0025]

[0021] Electronic conductors enable the transmission of electrical signals throughout the substrate or e-textile and may form an electronic circuit or are part of an electronic circuit that is integrated into the substrate or the e-textile. An electronic circuit refers therefore in the context of the invention to a circuit that is made up at least partially of electrically conductive materials. The electronic circuit may further comprise other components that provide further functions such as sensors, batteries, electronic components, integrated circuits or alike. In the context of this invention, the term “substrate-integrated electronic circuit” refers to electronic circuits that are combined or merged directly into the substrate of the fabric. By integrating electronics into the substrate, the electronic components become an inherent part of the fabric, rather than being attached or embedded onto the surface.

[0026]

[0022] Electronic circuits are the functional electronic components that may be embedded within or integrated into the fabric, such as conductive loops, sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, or communication modules. In the context of the invention, a conductive loop crafted from conductive material can function as an electronic circuit, serving as for instance an antenna, an inductive coil or a resistive heating element. These components enable the fabric to provide a specific function, sense, process, and respond to various stimuli or inputs.

[0027]

[0023] The term “integrated” in this context includes any way of embedding or integrating electrically conductive material or an electronic circuit in or into a substrate as well as any way to attach or connect electrically conductive material or an electronic circuit on or onto a substrate. The resulting e-textile has enhanced functionalities, such as measuring, sensing, computing, or communication, that are enabled by the integrated electronics.

[0028]

[0024] The integration of an electronic circuit in a substrate can be achieved by various techniques, such as printing (including transfer printing), coating, melting, laminating, sewing, stitching, embroidering, knitting, weaving or braiding electrically conductive material and / or components into or on the substrate.

[0029]

[0025] The electrically conductive material may comprise any electrically conductive material known in the art and comprises for example metals (such as silver, copper, or gold), metal alloys, carbon nanotubes, conductive polymers or conductive paint or ink.

[0030]

[0026] The electrically conductive material can include elongated electrically conductive elements or electrically conductive layers or coatings.

[0031]

[0027] Elongated elements are to be understood as objects comprising one or more thin, flexible object having a relatively small cross-section compared to its length. Elongated elements include fibres, filaments (either monofilaments as multifilaments), wires, threads, yarns, ribbons, strips and cords. Electrically conductive elongated elements typically comprise metals (such as silver, copper or gold), metal alloy, or conductive polymers.

[0032]

[0028] Fibres and filaments are defined as units of material having a length being at least 100 times their diameter or width. Wires and filaments have a length to diameter ratio which is substantially larger than the length to diameter ratio of fibres. Wires usually refer to metal wires.

[0033] A yam is defined as a thin, long, continuous strand of fibres, filaments or wires in a form suitable to make a textile fabric for example by knitting or weaving.

[0034] A thread is defined as a type of yarn designed for sewing, stitching or embroidering, with specific qualities like strength and smoothness.

[0035] A ribbon is defined as an elongated element having a flat, usually rectangular or substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0036] A cord is defined as a group of fibres, filaments, wires, strands of fibres, filaments or wires twisted, cabled or bunched together.

[0029] An electrically conductive layer or coating comprises any kind of layer of an electrically conductive material and comprises for example metals (such as silver, copper, or gold), metal alloys, carbon nanotubes, conductive polymers or conductive paint or ink .

[0037]

[0030] Typical examples of electrically conductive layers or coatings comprise inherently electrically conductive polymers such as polyaniline (PAN I), poly- 3,4 ethylene dioxythiophene (PEDOT), polypyrol (PPy) and polyacethyleen or polymers such as polyurethane or polyacrylic polymers doped with conductive electrically conductive particles such as metal and / or carbon particles.

[0038]

[0031] In particular embodiments, the electrically conductive material of the electronic circuit is integrated into the substrate, meaning that the conductive material has been incorporated or embedded into the substrate, for example into a textile fabric. This integration typically involves weaving, knitting, glueing, melting, mechanically fastening or otherwise combining the electrically conductive material with the substrate during the manufacturing process. Care has to be taken however that the insulating characteristic of the substrate is not jeopardized by exposing the conductive materials on both sides of the substrate when applying these techniques. As mentioned above, it is important that the substrate serves as an insulating barrier for the electronic signal applied on one side of the substrate.

[0039]

[0032] In other embodiments, the electrically conductive material is applied (at least partially) on the outside or surface of the substrate, i.e. as a layer or coating on the outside or surface of the substrate. Application of electrically conductive material on the surface of the substrate is preferred for some substrates, for example for nonwoven structures, (soft) plastic membranes, films or leather substrates as the integration of electrically conductive material in the substrate might be challenging. A preferred technique to apply conductive material on a surface of a substrate comprises printing, for example screen-printing or inkjet-printing. Other examples of applying conductive materials on the outside or surface of a substrate comprise glueing, stitching, sewing, mechanically fastening or bonding or otherwise connecting electrically conductive material for example electrically conductive elongated elements such as wires, threads or yams onto a surface. It is clear that the type of material that is used as a substrate determines which type of integration of the conductive material can be applied.

[0033] For substrates comprising a textile fabric such as a woven, a knitted or braided structure, conductive materials can also be directly incorporated into the elongated elements, for example into the yam or thread, before the textile is produced.

[0040] Removable electronic module

[0041]

[0034] The removable electronic module is, in the context of the invention, a device external to the e-textile that is configured and designed to electronically connect with the substrate-integrated electronic circuit through a magnetic connector such that the substrate-integrated electronic circuit is operated. The removable electronic module may for instance comprise a power source for powering the substrate- integrated electronic circuit, a processing device for reading out and analysing data that may be generated by the substrate-integrated electronic circuit, or alike. The removable electronic device may be, as explained above, continuously in contact with the substrate-integrated electronic circuit during usage, or only for limited periods of time.

[0042] Magnetic connector system

[0043]

[0035] In the context of the invention, a magnetic connector system is a type of connection mechanism that uses permanent magnets to secure and align two connecting components together. Such a magnetic connector system consists of two parts of which at least one is equipped with a permanent magnet and the other with either a permanent magnet (comprising hard magnetic material) or a soft magnetic material (such as iron) such that a magnetic attraction between the two parts is established. In the context of this invention, a magnet has to be understood as a permanent magnet. A permanent magnet consists of ferromagnetic material that is a so-called “hard” magnetic material which exhibits strong magnetic properties at all times, and therefore is “permanently” magnetized. Hard magnetic materials are characterized by their ability to retain magnetization over long periods, even after the external magnetic field is removed. They have high coercivity, which means they require a strong magnetic field to become demagnetized. Examples of hard magnetic materials include alnico alloys and certain types of ferrites and rare-earth magnets like neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo). Soft magnetic materials lose their magnetism quickly when the external magnetic field is removed.

[0036] When the two components are brought close together, the magnet attracts the counterpart, pulling the connectors into alignment and providing a secure connection.

[0044]

[0037] Magnetic connector systems are commonly used in various electronic devices and accessories, such as charging cables, docking stations, and cases for smartphones and tablets. They offer several advantages over traditional connectors, including ease of use, quick attachment and detachment, and reduced wear and tear on the connectors themselves.

[0045]

[0038] The e-textile according to the present invention is provided with a magnetic connector configured to connect with a removable electronic module that has a number of electrically conductive contact points, for example magnetic orferromagnetic contact points, to establish an electronic connection when connected. Magnetic or ferromagnetic contact points have to be understood as electrically conductive contact points comprising magnetic properties, such that they can be attracted by ferromagnetic materials. The magnetic connector comprises multiple spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate, each patch electrically connected to said substrate-integrated electronic circuit by means of an electric conductor and multiple magnets at a second side of the substrate at an opposite side of the contact patches. This means that a contact patch provides at least a partial electrically conductive surface on a first side of the substrate or the e-textile to establish an electrical connection with a corresponding contact point of the removable electronic module and is configured with a magnet behind it, i.e. at the second side of the substrate or the e-textile to attract a corresponding contact point of the removable electronic module.

[0046]

[0039] In order to establish the electrical connection, the contact patches expose electrically conductive material at a first side of the surface of the e-textile, such that portions of the electrically conductive material may be brought into direct contact with the contact points of the removable electronic module. In general the conductive surface of the contact patch is dimensioned to be sufficiently large to meet the required conductive characteristics.

[0047]

[0040] In addition, by providing a contact patch applied on a first side of the substrate with a magnet behind it, i.e. at the second side of the substrate or the e- textile, the e-textile may attract a corresponding contact point of the removable electronic module. The magnet can be provided by any technique known in the art, for example by means of glueing, embedding, sewing or alike.

[0048]

[0041] Preferably, each of the contact patches of the multiple spatially arranged contact patches provides an electrically conductive surface on a first side of the substrate or e-textile and is configured with a magnet behind it, i.e. at the second side of the substrate or the e-textile. The magnet can be provided by any technique known in the art, for example by means of glueing, embedding, sewing or alike.

[0049]

[0042] The removable electronic module is provided with multiple spatially arranged electrically conductive contact points. The number of spatially arranged electrically conductive contact points is in principle not limited. The number of spatially arranged contact point is in principle not limited. In preferred embodiments the number of spatially arranged contact points ranges between 2 and 10 and is for example 3, 4, 5 or 6. The contact points can be arranged in different spatial arrangements. The contact points are for example positioned at the vertices of a polygon such as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon or the contact points can be positioned in a circle. In other spatial arrangements the contact points are positioned at the vertices of a polygon as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon with some additional contact points in the area defined by the vertices. A particular spatial arrangement comprises 5 contact points of which 4 contact points are positioned on the vertices of a square and one contact point is positioned at the center of the square.

[0050]

[0043] The spatial distribution and size of the contact patches of the magnetic connector of the invention are preferably adapted to optimize the electric connection with the contact points of the removable electronic module when connected and / or to optimize the magnetic attraction between the magnetic connector of the e-textile and the contact points of the removable electronic module.

[0051]

[0044] The multiple electrically conductive contact points are preferably spatially arranged so that at least part of the contact points of the removable electronic module corresponds with at least part of the multiple spatially arranged contact patches of the magnetic connector. Preferably, each of the multiple spatially arranged contact points of the removable electronic module correspond with a contact patch of the multiple spatially arranged contact patches of the magnetic connector.

[0052]

[0045] The particular layout arrangement of the contact patches on the magnetic connector and the choice of polarities of the magnets behind each contact patch can ensure that there is only one correct alignment possible between the removable electronic module and the magnetic connector. This means that the unique polarity arrangement of the magnets behind the contact patches can be matched with a specific polarity arrangement for the contact points on the removable electronic module, thus allowing for instance only one orientation of the removable connector to fit the magnetic connector of the e-textile. In other words, the design of the contact patches and their corresponding magnets ensures that the connection between the two components can only be made in a number of desired correct ways, preventing accidental or incorrect connections from being established. This unique alignment arrangement is achieved by carefully planning the layout of the contact patches on the magnetic connector and the polarities of the magnets behind each patch to match with the specific polarity arrangement of the contact points on the removable electronic module. As a result, for instance only one orientation of the removable connector can fit the magnetic connector of the e-textile, ensuring secure and reliable connections.

[0053]

[0046] Moreover this arrangement of the multiple contact patches and / or of the multiple contact points of the removable electronic module makes it easier for a user to establish the connection without requiring a high dexterity from the user. When the removable electronic module is presented to or brought in the vicinity of the magnetic connector with an orientation according to (or close to) the correct alignment, the contact points will snap onto the magnetic connector, making it easy for the user to establish a good connection between the module and the magnetic connector. In a first step, the magnetic fields of the magnets behind the contact patches of the magnetic connector and the connection points interact, causing the connector to selfalign with the connection points when aligned more or less correctly. This means that the connector will automatically position itself correctly, without requiring precise manual adjustment. Once the connector is aligned, the magnetic forces between the magnets behind the contact patches of the magnetic connector and the connection points will pull them together. This attraction ensures that the connector remains securely attached, even under movement or vibration. As the magnetic connector snaps into place, it makes electrical contact with the connection points. This contact allows for the transfer of power or data between the connected devices. The design of the magnetic connector and connection points typically ensures a stable and reliable electrical connection.

[0054]

[0047] This may lead to a situation where only one orientation of the removable electronic module fits the magnetic connector of the e-textile, namely the one where all magnets behind the contact patches of the magnetic connector of the e- textile have the same polarity as the corresponding magnets of the contact points of the removable connector. When the removable electronic module is wrongly aligned with the contact patches, it would not establish a secure electrical connection because the corresponding magnets behind each contact patch are designed to attract only one specific polarity arrangement of the contact points on the removable electronic module. If the removable electronic module is misaligned, the magnets will not be able to attract and align correctly with the contact points, resulting in an incomplete or non-existent electrical connection. In other words, due to the unique polarity arrangement of the magnets behind each contact patch, only one correct alignment between the removable electronic module and the magnetic connector can ensure a secure electric connection. If the alignment is incorrect, the connection will not be established, preventing any accidental or incorrect connections from being made.

[0055]

[0048] It is therefore an advantage of this type of magnetic connector that an electric connection can be established easily between a multitude of contact points, because the removable electronic module may only correctly fit the magnetic connector in one particular orientation. An incorrect alignment will result in an incomplete electronic coupling of the electronic connections.

[0056]

[0049] By virtue of the magnetic connector, the electronic components within the removable electronic module can be easily detached from the integrated components within the e-textile. This arrangement provides the advantage that only the electronic circuit that is integrated into the e-textile may be subjected to for instance washing cycles, which may advantageously safeguard the more costly electronic components that would be integrated into the removable electronic module from potential damage during the laundering process of the smart garment.

[0050] It is an important advantage of an e-textile according to the present invention that the magnetic connector or the magnetic connector system does not require an additional mechanical connection means as for example pins and corresponding holes, including but not limited to dowel pins, taper pins, roll pins, or clevis pins to ensure the physical and electrical connection with the removable electronic module.

[0057] Contact patches

[0058]

[0051] As mentioned above, the magnetic connector of an e-textile according to the present invention comprises multiple spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate. A contact patch comprises electrically conductive material. A contact patch typically has an electrical resistivity in the range of 10-8to 10-4Q-m, for example an electrical resistivity of 10-7Q-m., 10-6Q m or 10-5Q-m.

[0059]

[0052] At least part of a contact patch exposes electrically conductive material at a first side of the e-textile such that at least part of the electrically conductive material may be brought into direct contact with the contact points of the removable electronic module. According to the present invention, a contact patch (comprising an electrically conductive material) is arranged on one side, the first side, of the electrically non- conductive substrate, thereby providing the e-textile with a zone having a high electrical conductivity (or a lower electrical resistivity, typically in the range of 10-8to 10-4Q-m). The electrical resistivity of a contact patch at the first side of the e-textile is preferably several orders of magnitude smaller than the electrical resistivity of the electrically non-conductive substrate. When comparing the electrical resistivity of the two sides of an e-textile according to the present invention, a contact patch at the first side of the e-textile has preferably an electrical resistivity that is several orders of magnitude smaller than the electrical resistivity of the zone opposing such contact patch at the second side of the e-textile. The electrical resistivity of a zone of a contact patch at the first side ranges for example between 10-8to 10-4Q-m whereas the electrical resistivity of the opposing zone at the second side of the e-textile is greater than 104Q-m, greater than 106Q-m, 108Q-m or 1010Q-m. An electrical signal will not pass from the first side of the e-textile to the second side of the e-textile, also not at the zones where a contact patch is applied. By guaranteeing so, there is no risk that the electrical connection would suffer from loss in connection quality because of direct contact of the electrically conducting portions with the skin of the wearer of the garment.

[0060]

[0053] The electrically conductive material of a contact patch may comprise any electrically conductive material known in the art and comprises for example metals (such as silver, copper, or gold), metal alloys, carbon nanotubes, conductive polymers or conductive paint or ink.

[0061]

[0054] The electrically conductive materials can include elongated electrically conductive elements or electrically conductive layers or coatings.

[0062]

[0055] As elongated electrically conductive element any elongated element described above suitable to provide the electrically conductive material of the electronic circuit can be considered.

[0063]

[0056] As electrically conductive layer or coating, any layer or coating described above suitable to provide the electronic circuit can be considered.

[0064]

[0057] A contact patch can have any shape, for example a linear, circular, oval or polygonal shape. In preferred embodiments the shape and size of a contact patch corresponds to the shape and size of the contact points. In particular embodiments, the size of a contact patch exceeds the size of a contact point. In other embodiments, the size of a contact point exceeds the size of a contact patch.

[0065] The different contact patches of the multiple contact patches can have the same shape and / or the same size or can have different shapes and / or sizes.

[0066]

[0058] The contact patches can be obtained by any technique known in the art.

[0067]

[0059] In a first group of embodiments, the contact patches are applied at the first side of the electrically non-conductive substrate by means of needlework. In such case the contact patches comprise electrically conductive elongated elements. Any type of electrically conductive elongated elements described above can be considered. For the purpose of this invention “needlework” refers to techniques using a needle and includes for example stitching, sewing and embroidering The advantage of applying contact patches by a needlework technique is that the e-textile may maintain the characteristics of the electrically non-conductive substrate, for example the flexibility of the electrically non-conductive substrate even on the locations where the contact patches are applied. The contact patches therefore have comparable characteristics, for example a comparable flexibility, as the underlying substrate. In most embodiments, the flexibility of the e-textile and of the substrate is important as the flexibility ensures a good fit between a contact patches and a contact point of the removable electronic module, especially when multiple corresponding magnets, for example all corresponding magnets provide the magnetic attraction on multiple contact points, for example all contact points. The contact patch of the invention applied by a needlework technique can have the properties of a small cushion consisting of electrically conductive elements. Such a cushion thus has a resilient electrically conductive surface that, when brought into contact with a contact point, experiences a contact pressure force, ensuring or enhancing electrical conductivity between the contact patch and the contact point.

[0068]

[0060] By applying a needlework technique, the electrically conductive elongated element, for example the electrically conductive yam, is at least partially integrated into the substrate of the e-textile and at least a portion of the surface of electrically conductive elongated element, for example the electrically conductive yarn, is exposed to the outer surface of the contact patch. To guarantee that electrically conductive material is exposed to the outer surface of the contact patch, the electrically conductive elongated elements are preferably non-isolated.

[0069]

[0061] Although the electrically conductive elongated elements, for example the electrically conductive yarns, are at least partially integrated into the substrate of the e-textile by using a needlework technique, the second side of the substrate opposing a contact patch has a lower electrically conductivity (higher electrical resistivity) than the first side of the substrate. In preferred needlework techniques using two threads, a top thread (coming from above, typically through the needle) is an electrically conductive thread, whereas the second thread (bottom thread) is an electrically non-conductive thread or an electrical isolated electrically conductive element.

[0070]

[0062] The total exposed outer surface of the contact patch available for making electronic contact and therefore determining the total conductivity across a contact patch, can for example be influenced by the needle technique, the material of the electrically conductive elongated elements, the diameter of the electrically conductive elongated elements, the density of the electrically conductive elongated elements and the structure of needlework. It is found that applying a contact patch by needlework using stitching, sewing, weaving, knitting and embroidering whereby electrically conductive elongated elements are applied in multiple directions may improve the conductivity of the magnetic connector. As mentioned above, contact patches applied by a needlework technique guarantee sufficient flexibility of the e- textile to obtain a good electrical contact with the contact points of the removable electronic module without requiring mechanical fastening means such pins and holes.

[0071]

[0063] In a second group of embodiments, the contact patches are applied at the first side of the substrate as an electrically conductive layer or coating, for example by printing, coating, laminating, melting, glueing or mechanically fastening. Any type of electrically conductive coating described above can be considered. Preferred examples comprise metals or metal alloys, carbon-based materials and conductive paints or inks. Silver, gold and copper are commonly used as conductive material, for example as conductive printed material, due to their high conductivity. However, they can be expensive and prone to oxidation, which may affect their performance. Alternatively, carbon-based materials may be used. Graphene, carbon nanotubes and conductive polymers like PEDOT (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate) are popular alternatives to metals. They are lightweight, flexible, and more cost-effective. Conductive inks are made by suspending conductive particles, such as metal or carbon-based materials or core-shell metallic nano-particles, in a liquid medium. The ink can be printed onto the fabric, and once it dries, it forms a conductive path. To apply these conductive materials onto the substrate of the e-textile, printing techniques can be preferred. Different printing techniques may be used, such as for instance screenprint printing, inkjet printing or gravure printing.

[0072]

[0064] The conductive material of the electronic circuit and the conductive material of the contact patch may comprise the same material or may comprise different materials. Preferred examples of e-textile comprising the same material as conductive material for the electronic circuit and for the conductive patch comprise elongated electrically conductive elements, for example yarns or threads or electrically conductive coatings or layers, for example printed coatings or layers.

[0073]

[0065] By applying a contact patch (comprising an electrically conductive material) at the first side of the substrate, the first side of the e-textile has a zone having a high electrical conductivity (or a lower electrical resistivity, typically in the range of 10-8to 10-4O-m) compared to the zone opposing the contact patch, i.e. the opposing zone at the second side of the e-textile. The electrical resistivity of a contact patch at the first side of the e-textile is preferably several orders of magnitude smaller than the electrical resistivity of the zone opposing such contact patch at the second side of the e-textile. The electrical resistivity of a zone of a contact patch at the first side ranges for example between 10’8to 10’4Q-m whereas the electrical resistivity of the opposing zone at the second side of the e-textile is greater than 104Q-m. An electrical signal will not pass from the first side of the e-textile to the second side of the e-textile, also not at the zones where a contact patch is applied.

[0074] Magnets

[0075]

[0066] As mentioned above the magnetic connectors of an e-textile according to the present invention comprise contact patches and magnets, which are permanent magnets. The magnets are provided at a second side of the substrate at an opposite side of the contact patches at the second side of the substrate. The magnets are preferably integrated in the substrate. Integration of the magnets in the substrates includes any way of embedding or integrating one or more magnets in or into a substrate as well as any way to attach or connect one or more magnets on or onto a substrate. Furthermore, the term “integrated” emphasizes that the one or more magnet may not only be embedded, integrated in or attached or connected to the substrate but may be fully merged and unified with the substrate, creating a single, cohesive material with advanced capabilities.

[0076]

[0067] The integration of a magnet into a substrate or an e-textile can be achieved through various methods, such as integrating or embedding the magnet during the manufacturing process of the substrate or e-textile. The magnet can be incorporated into the substrate or e-textile as it is being produced. For instance, the magnet could be integrated into the substrate, for example during the weaving or knitting process of a textile fabric. Another way of integrating one or more magnet to an e-textile is by attaching one or more magnets to a substrate, for example via adhesive or bonding agents or via mechanical fastening. The magnet can for instance be sewn into a pocket against the second side of the substrate; the pocket may then be formed using an additional layer of substrate or other material and encloses the magnet such that it is attached to the second side of the substrate. Alternatively, the magnet can be integrated into the substrate during the weaving process such that it is fully encapsulated. The latter methods allow for more precise placement of the magnet.

[0077]

[0068] In particular embodiments the contact surface of a contact patch, which is the surface of the contact patch that is exposed at a first side of the substrate, matches the size of the corresponding magnet at the opposite side of the electrically non-conductive substrate.

[0078]

[0069] In other embodiments the contact surface of a contact patch, exceeds the size of the corresponding magnet at the opposite side of the electrically non- conductive substrate or alternatively the size of a magnet at the second side of the electrically non-conductive substrate exceeds the contact surface of the corresponding contact patch.

[0079]

[0070] In preferred embodiments the magnets are dimensioned to keep the removable electronic module attached to the e-textile under all orientations of the e- textile.

[0080]

[0071] In further embodiments, the placement and choice of the magnets is considered in relation to the position, size and shape of their corresponding contact patches. The optimal placement of the magnets is achieved when they are directly positioned behind the contact patches to attract the corresponding contact points of the removable electronic module. The size of the magnets therefore ideally match the size and shape of the contact patches, which on their own turn match the size, shape and location of the corresponding contact points on the removable electronic module. The contact surface of the contact patch, which is the surface of the contact patch that is exposed at a first side of the substrate, ideally matches or exceeds the size of the corresponding contact point.

[0081]

[0072] Further improvements may be achieved by oversizing the contact patches of the magnetic connector compared to the size of the contact points of the removable electronic module, or by oversizing the magnets compared to the size of the contact patches of the magnetic connector. The former improvement establishes an improved conductivity of the connector and improved overall connection reliability.

[0082]

[0073] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an e-textile connector assembly as set out in claim 11 is provided. The e-textile connector assembly comprises an e-textile as specified above further comprising a removable electronic module comprising multiple spatially arranged electrically conductive contact points. A contact point comprises magnetic material, which consists preferably of a ferromagnetic material. The ferromagnetic material may be a “soft” magnetic material, such as iron, which exhibits strong magnetic properties in the presence of an external magnetic field, but loses its magnetism quickly when the external magnetic field is removed. “Soft” magnetic materials are characterized by a low coercivity. Permanent magnets are therefore also called “hard” magnetic materials. The contact points of the invention therefore may comprise “soft” or “hard” magnetic materials. A magnetic connector of the e-textile ensures electrical connection with a contact point of the removable electronic module while allowing to attract a contacts point of the removable electronic device.

[0083]

[0074] The removable electronic module is, as explained above, a device external to the e-textile that is configured and designed to electronically connect with the substrate-integrated electronic circuit through a magnetic connector such that the substrate-integrated electronic circuit is operated. In order to connect with the magnetic connector, the contact points of the removable electronic module are magnetic and preferably ferromagnetic, and are spatially arranged to correspond to the spatial arrangement of the contact patches of the magnetic connector.

[0084]

[0075] In preferred embodiments, the electrically conductive contact points of the removable electronic module comprise magnetic material, which is preferably a ferromagnetic material, whereby the magnetic material is provided with or at least partially encapsulated in an electrically conductive material, such as a copper layer or copper plate. Preferably, at least the side of the magnetic material coming into contact with a contact patch of the e-textile is provided with or encapsulated in an electrically conductive material.

[0085]

[0076] As mentioned above, the contact patches of the e-textile and the contact point of the removable electronic module can be arranged in different spatial arrangements.

[0086]

[0077] In preferred embodiments the spatially arrangement of the contact patches of the magnetic connector of the e-textile corresponds with the spatially arrangement of the contact points of the removable electronic module. In particular preferred embodiments each contact patch of the magnetic connector of the e-textile corresponds with a contact point of the removable electronic module.

[0087]

[0078] In preferred embodiments, the number of spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate is in principle not limited. The number of spatially arranged contact patches at a first side of the substrate is in principle not limited. In preferred embodiments the number of spatially arranged contact patches ranges between 2 and 10 and is for example 3, 4, 5 or 6. The contact patches can be arranged in different spatial arrangements. The contact patches are for example positioned at the vertices of a polygon such as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon or the contact patches can be positioned in a circle. In other spatial arrangements the contact patches are positioned at the vertices of a polygon as a triangle, quadrialateral, square, pentagon or hexagon with some additional contact patches in the area defined by the vertices. A preferred spatial arrangement comprises 5 contact patches of which 4 contact patches are positioned on the vertices of a square and 1 contact patch is positioned at the center of the square.

[0088]

[0079] In the case that the removable electronic module comprises magnets as contact points a further optimization may be achieved by aligning the polarities of the magnets of the contact points to the polarities of the magnets behind the corresponding contact patches. This improvement has two advantages. A first advantage is that the alignment of the polarities of the magnets establishes a stronger magnetic attractive force, compared to a situation where paramagnetic material is used in the contact points of the removable electronic device. In order to establish an electrical contact, the polarities of the magnets of the contact points have to be aligned to the polarities of the magnets behind the corresponding contact patches. If the polarities are not aligned, a contact patch would not attract a corresponding contact point, but would repel it.

[0089]

[0080] This effect causes a second advantage that occurs when the polarities of the magnets of the different contact patches of a magnetic contact assembly are not oriented in the same direction. The distribution of the magnetic polarities of the magnets of the magnetic connector may be chosen such that they only allow one correct connection orientation between the removable electronic module and the magnetic connector. An incorrect alignment of the removable electronic module with the magnetic connector will cause certain magnets to repel each other, disallowing the establishing of a proper contact between both. Only in the case that all contact patches are aligned with their corresponding contact points of the removable electronic device can a firm magnetic and electronic connection be established.

[0090]

[0081] Once the removable electronic module is attached to the e-textile, the electrically conductive contact patch of the e-textile is in direct contact with the electrically conductive contact point of the removable electronic module. There is no need to position a printed circuit board or part of a printed circuit board between the e- textile and the removable electronic module. This allows to minimize magnetic interference.

[0091]

[0082] Further advantages and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and drawings.

[0092] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0093]

[0083] Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an e-textile of the invention in combination with a removable electronic module;

[0094]

[0084] Fig. 2 is a representation of another e-textile of the invention wherein both the contact patches and a portion of the electronic circuit are printed on the surface of the substrate;

[0095]

[0085] Fig. 3 is a representation of another e-textile of the invention wherein the contact patches are made of conductive yam.

[0096]

[0086] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b are detailed schematic representations of magnetic connector systems of the invention.

[0097]

[0087] Fig. 5 illustrates an e-textile connector assembly of the invention in perspective view, comprising an e-textile and a removable electronic module; and,

[0098]

[0088] Fig. 6 illustrates an e-textile that is integrated into a garment.

[0099] Detailed Description of Embodiment(s)

[0100]

[0089] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of an e-textile 100 according to an aspect of the invention, and this in combination with a removable electronic module 200 to which the fabric may connect. The e-textile 100 of the invention comprises an electrically non-conductive substrate 110, a substrate- integrated electronic circuit 120 and a magnetic connector 130. In the drawing, the removable electronic module 200 is not connected to the magnetic connector 130 of the e-textile 100.

[0101]

[0090] The electrically non-conductive substrate 110 typically consists of some type of fabric and is the base material for the e-textile. In Figure 1 , the electrically non-conductive substrate is depicted as a sheet of material into which the electronic circuit 120 is integrated. The substrate-integrated electronic circuit 120 at least consists of some electrically conductive material which may form a loop between at least two contact patches 132 of the magnetic connector 130. The substrate-integrated electronic circuit 120 may further comprise further electronic components 121 such as processors, sensors, resistive materials, antenna’s or alike.

[0102]

[0091] Since the substrate-integrated electronic circuit 120 is integrated into the electrically non-conductive substrate 110 of the e-textile 100, it has to be understood that the complete configuration may eventually be integrated into a garment of some kind. Preferably, the electronic circuit and its components therefore have to be resistant to the environmental factors that the garment will be exposed to, such as vigorous movements, washing cycles, rain and cold or hot weather. In order for the electronic circuit 120 and its further electronic components 121 to be resistive to these environmental factors, the type of integration may greatly contribute to this resistiveness. In the case that the electronic circuit 120 and its further electronic components 121 are fully embedded into the electrically non-conductive substrate, they may be fully shielded from the outside elements.

[0103]

[0092] The integration of the electrically conductive material, such as an electrically conductive thread or yam, of the substrate-integrated electronic circuit 120 may be achieved by any kind of technique, for example by some kind of needlework. This integration typically involves weaving, knitting, glueing, melting or otherwise combining the electrically conductive material with the fabric during the manufacturing process.

[0104]

[0093] The e-textile 100 further comprises a magnetic connector 130 that is configured to establish an electrical connection with a removable electronic module 200. The removable electronic module 200 comprises contact points 210 that are connected to the electronic circuit of the electronic module by means of electric conductors 220. The magnetic connector 130 comprises a number of contact patches 132 behind which each contact patch a magnet 131 is positioned. The contact patches 132 are spatially arranged on the upper surface (first side) of the e-textile to make electronic contact with correspondingly arranged contact points 210 of the removable electronic module 200. In Figure 1 , the contact points 210 may be made from a conductive paramagnetic or magnetic material such that the contact points 210 themselves may be attracted by the magnets 131 of the magnetic connector to establish the electrical connection. In alternative embodiments, the removable electronic module has magnets positioned behind the electrically conductive contacts points 210. In the case that the contact points 210 of the removable electronic module 200 comprise magnetic material, or in case that a magnet is positioned behind the electrically conductive material of the contact point 210, the polarities of the magnets of the removable electronic module and the magnets 131 behind the contact patches have to be aligned such that magnetic attraction is established between each corresponding set of contact points 210 and contact patches 132.

[0105]

[0094] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of another preferred embodiment of an e-textile 100 according to an aspect of the invention, and this in combination with a removable electronic module 200 to which the fabric may connect. The e-textile 100 of the invention comprises a fabric as a substrate 110, for example an electrically non-conductive fabric. On the upper surface (first side) of the fabric, a printed material is applied to form the electrically conductive contact patches 132. Also the electronic circuit or a portion of the electronic circuit 120’ can be applied by printing, for example by printing on the upper surface (first side) of the fabric. The printed portion of the electronic circuit 120’ in this embodiment connects to the remaining portion of the electronic circuit 120 which may consist of electrically conductive yarn or another type of an electrically conductive elongated element. The electronic circuit 120 may further comprise further electronic components 121 .

[0106]

[0095] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of another preferred embodiment of an e-textile 100 according to an aspect of the invention, and this in combination with a removable electronic module 200 to which the fabric may connect. The e-textile 100 of the invention comprises a fabric as an electrically non-conductive substrate 110. On the upper surface (first side) of the fabric, two embroidered contact patches 132 are depicted that are made of electrically conductive yarn. The electrically conductive yarn is exposed to the upper surface of the contact patches 132 at the upper surface (first side) of the e-textile 100, and at the same time ensures the integration of the contact patches 132 with the electrically non-conductive substrate 110. The electronic circuit 120 is depicted as an irregular shaped thread of conductive yam, and connects with the contact patches 132 on one end, and with the further electronic components 121.

[0107]

[0096] Figure 4a is a detailed schematic representation of a magnetic connector system of the invention, showing in the upper part of the drawing a magnetic or paramagnetic contact point 210 that is embodied as a conductive plate 212 that encapsulates a magnetic or paramagnetic element 211 . The magnetic or paramagnetic contact point 210 is captured in a non-conductive casing 213. The conductive plate 212 is electrically connected to the electronic circuit of the removable electronic device 200 by means of an electric conductor 220. The lower part of the drawing shows a magnetic connector that is, in this case, stitched into or between two layers of electrically non-conductive textile. The electrically non-conductive textile is the substrate material 110 of the magnetic connector. The two layers of the textile can be the same or can be different. A magnet 131 is positioned behind contact patch 132 which is embroidered in the upper layer of the electrically non-conductive textile 110. The two electrically non-conductive textile layers enclose magnet 131 in an electrically non-conductive textile pocket by means of a series of stiches 112 that stitch both electrically non-conductive textile layers together. Magnetic or paramagnetic element 211 and magnet 131 may comprise the same material or may comprise different materials.

[0108]

[0097] Figure 4b shows an alternative schematic representation of a magnetic connector system of the invention. The magnet 131 is positioned behind a contact patch 132 by using a (temporary) glue.

[0109]

[0098] Figure 5 illustrates an e-textile connector assembly of the invention in perspective view, comprising an e-textile 100 and a removable electronic module 200. The e-textile connector assembly of the invention is therefore to be understood as the combination of both the e-textile and a removable electronic module. The drawing of Figure 5 is in perspective view and shows both the e-textile 100 with its contact patches 132 facing upwards, as well as the contact points 210 of the removable electronic module 200 facing upwards. The removable electronic module 200 may be flipped over, as is suggested by the arrow, and be aligned with the magnetic connector of the e-textile. The positioning of the contact patches 132 of the e-textile 100 therefore correspond spatially with the positioning of the contact points 210 of the removable electronic module 200.

[0110]

[0099] Figure 6 illustrates an e-textile 100 that is integrated into a garment 300. The e-textile 100 comprises the magnetic connector 130, the substrate-integrated electronic circuit 120 and some further electronic components 121.

[0111]

[0100] Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. It will furthermore be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words "comprising" or "comprise" do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor, or another integrated unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective claims concerned. The terms "first", "second", third", "a", "b", "c", and the like, when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under", and the like are introduced for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described or illustrated above.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1 . An e-textile (100) comprising an electrically non-conductive substrate (110), a substrate-integrated electronic circuit (120) and a magnetic connector (130) for electrically connecting the substrate-integrated electronic circuit (120) to a removable electronic module (200) having multiple spatially arranged contact points (210), said magnetic connector (130) comprising:- multiple spatially arranged contact patches (132) at a first side of the electrically non-conductive substrate (110), each patch (132) electrically connected to said substrate-integrated electronic circuit (120),- multiple magnets (131 ) at a second side of the electrically non-conductive substrate at an opposite side of the contact patches (132).

2. The e-textile according to Claim 1 , wherein said contact patches (132) comprise an electrically conductive elongated element that is applied at the first side of the substrate (110) by means of needlework.

3. The e-textile according to Claim 1 , wherein said contact patches (132) comprise a layer of an electrically conductive material applied at the first side of the substrate.

4. The e-textile according to Claim 1 , wherein the magnets (131 ) are sewed into, glued on or encapsulated into the substrate at the opposite side of said multiple contact patches at the second side of the substrate.

5. The e-textile according to preceding claims 1 , 2 or 3, wherein the magnets (131 ) are integrated in the substrate during the manufacturing of the substrate or integrated in the substrate by attaching the magnets to the substrate.

6. The e-textile according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the magnet comprises a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

7. The e-textile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each contact patch of the multiple spatially arranged contact patches at the first sideof the electrically non-conductive substrate is provided with a magnet (131 ) at the second side of the electrically non-conductive substrate at the opposing side of the corresponding contact patch (132).

8. The e-textile according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the magnets are arranged such that they attract said contact points of said removable electronic module to establish and maintain an electrical connection between the substrate-integrated electronic circuit and the removable electronic module.

9. The e-textile according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a contact surface of said multiple contact patches exceeds the contact surface of said contact point of said removable electric module.

10. The e-textile according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a contact surface of said multiple contact patches exceeds the size of said magnets.

11. An e-textile connector assembly comprising the e-textile according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising said removable electronic module that comprises multiple spatially arranged electrically conductive contact points, with a contact point comprising or being provided with a magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

12. An e-textile connector assembly comprising the e-textile according to claim 11 , wherein the electrically conductive contact points comprise a ferromagnetic material provided with or at least partially encapsulated in an electrically conductive material.

13. An e-textile connector assembly according to Claim 11 or 12, wherein the contact patches are spatially arranged to correspond to a spatial arrangement of the contact points of the removable electronic module.

14. An e-textile connector assembly according to any one of Claims 11 to 13, wherein the magnetic polarities of the are distributed such that they correspond with the opposing polarities of the corresponding contact points ofthe removable electronic module in a case where said contact points comprise permanent magnets.

15. An e-textile connector assembly according to Claim 14, wherein the distribution of the magnetic polarities of the magnets of the magnetic connector are chosen such that they only allow one correct connection orientation between the removable electronic module and the magnetic connector.

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