Clevertex - Grado Zero Espace Srl

Fig. 17 Structure of a Personal health Assistant [56]
The figure shows a potential implementation of a PHA: several sensors, distributed in clothes, transmit
the measured physiological and context data over a body area network (BAN) to a computing unit,
which fuses the sensor data out of them, estimates the health status and communicates with
surrounding networks.
Most of the products and technologies described in the three subsequent subchapters need sensors
which either detect body movements or biometrical data like temperature or heartbeat for instance, or
which fulfil the function of a switch. Hence, products mentioned in the following need wired and
wireless communication and therefore require conductive yarns as well as conductive surfaces.
Additionally, power generation could also be a part of the textile infrastructure, using the large area on
the outer surface of clothes.
Generally, the section wearable electronics can be subdivided according to its use into three groups,
namely communication, information or entertainment, thermal control, and health, fitness or mood [58].
2.1.4.1 Wearable electronics for communication, information or entertainment
According to the International newsletter, wearable electronics for communication, information or
entertainment can be defined as garments that use an electronically conductive textile structure as a
scaffold for various switches, sensors, displays and other devices for communication, computing,
information and/or entertainment.
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