Textile Electronic Device With Flexible Envelope
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for integrating electronic circuits into smart clothing are either cumbersome, prone to failure under stress, or difficult to automate, and do not allow for easy detachment or replacement without complex operations.
Innovation Solution
A textile electronic device with a flexible electronic circuit connected to a conductive textile via a mechanical and electrical connection system, encased in a flexible envelope, allowing for secure, detachable, and comfortable integration without requiring complex operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of stationary object
If welding is used to connect conductive threads to electronic circuit tracks, then the connection size and mass are reduced, but the welding process is long, difficult to automate, and concentrates stresses increasing breakage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical interlocking system using a connection element that engages with conductive threads through friction and geometric constraints. This substitution eliminates the need for welding equipment and processes while achieving secure electrical and mechanical connection, directly addressing the automation and complexity issues.
2Ease of operation
If clasps are used for detachable connection, then the connection is detachable, but the connection is fragile under constraint and rigid causing user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing it to deform and conform to the conductive threads while maintaining electrical contact. This dynamic behavior enables the connection to withstand constraints and movements without breaking, while the flexible design prevents user discomfort, resolving the contradiction between detachability and reliability.
3Strength
If metal wires are sewn to interconnect electronic circuit, then the connection is secure, but the technique is difficult to achieve on industrial scale and does not allow replacement or detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into separate modular components: the connection element and the conductive threads. This segmentation allows the connection element to be independently manufactured and attached to the electronic circuit using standard industrial techniques, while the conductive threads remain integrated with the textile. This modularity enables industrial-scale production and facilitates replacement or detachment of components.
Data Source
AI summary
A textile electronic device configured to be connected to a conductive zone of a textile, the device including: an electronic circuit; at least a first mechanical and electrical connection means configured to be connected to the conductive zone of a textile; a textile substrate having at least a second electrical connection means, the at least one second electrical connection means being electrically connected to the electronic circuit and to the at least one first mechanical and electrical connection means; and a flexible envelope totally or partially including said electronic circuit, the at least one first mechanical and electrical connection means and the textile substrate, the at least one first mechanical connection means and electric being at least partially accessible through the flexible envelope. Also, a manufacturing method of the textile electronic device.