Now, Ohio State University researchers have made another big breakthrough, managing to create embroidered circuits using metallic thread that's just 0.1 mm thick. By embedding different patterns, the tech could be used to create everything from a t-shirt that boosts your cellphone signal, to a hat that tracks brain activity.
Embroidery is not likely something that you'd associate with cutting-edge technology, but a new breed of functional textiles, known as "e-textiles" are set to challenge that perception. The concept makes use of sewing machines capable of embroidering thread into fabric automatically based on a pattern sent to it from a computer. But rather than traditional thread, fine metal wires are used.
