This book provides a comprehensive review of the end-user's requirements, as well as the materials and technologies available for the design and production of smart clothing. It is organized in four sections: The first examines the design of smart clothing and wearable technology, including the emergence of wearable computing, end-user requirements, and the design process from fiber selection to product launch. Part II discusses the materials and technologies employed in the merger of textile design and intended function. Part III reviews the production methods available for the development of smart clothing, including garment construction and fabric joining. Part IV discusses applications in smart clothing products and their presentation to consumers.

From the Preface: “The process of creating smart clothing and wearable technology has to consider so many factors that it has to be collaborative between end-users, textile specialists, electronics, fashion and clothing designers and manufacturers all the way from the concept for new garment or wearable device through to point of sale. This book then is designed to support the development of a shared language between designers and each of the specialisations...It is only through the development of this shared language and understanding that we can begin to collaborate and overcome the complexities of design and product development of smart clothing and wearable technology...”

Target Audience: Researchers, designers, and engineers developing textile and clothing products; healthcare industry professionals; and marketers interested in new applications for electronics and communication devices.

Table of Contents:

The Design of Smart Clothing and Wearable Technology:

The Emergence of Wearable Computing

Types of Smart Clothes and Wearable Technology

End-User Based Design of Innovative Smart Clothing

The Garment Design Process for Smart Clothing: From Fibre Selection Through to Product Launch

Designing Smart Clothing for the Body

Materials and Technologies for Smart Clothing:

The Influence of Knitwear on Smart Wearables

Woven Structures and Their Impact on the Function and Performance of Smart Clothing

Nonwovens in Smart Clothes and Wearable Technologies

Sensors and Computing Systems in Smart Clothing

The Application of Communication Technologies in Smart Clothing

Power Supply Sources for Smart Textiles

Production Technologies for Smart Clothing:

Garment Construction: Cutting and Placing of Materials

Developments in Fabric Joining for Smart Clothing

Digital Embroidery Techniques for Smart Clothing

Developments in Digital Printing Technology for Smart Clothing

Environmental and Waste Issues Concerning the Production of Smart Clothes and Wearable Technology

Smart Clothing Products:

Smart Clothing and Wearable Technology for the Health and Well-Being Market

Smart Clothing for the Ageing Population

Smart Clothing and Disability: Wearable Technology for People with Arthritis

Wearable Technology for the Performing Arts

Branding and Presentation of Smart Clothing Products to Consumers

Index