How do you optimize the power consumption and communication of soft sensors and actuators in textiles?

1 Types of soft sensors and actuators

Soft sensors and actuators can be divided into various types, depending on their materials, mechanisms, and functions. An example of a resistive sensor is one that changes its electrical resistance when stretched, bent, or pressed. This type of sensor can be made of conductive fabrics, yarns, or polymers and is used to measure strain, pressure, or touch. Capacitive sensors change their electrical capacitance when deformed or exposed to external stimuli. They are usually made of dielectric fabrics, foams, or composites and measure proximity, humidity, or temperature. Piezoelectric sensors and actuators generate or respond to electric voltage when mechanically stressed or stimulated. These are typically made of ceramic, polymer, or composite fibers and are used to measure vibration, sound, or force. Lastly, electroactive polymers (EAPs) contract or expand when subjected to electric field and can be used as actuators for shape-changing, bending, or twisting effects.

2 Power sources and management

One of the main challenges of soft sensors and actuators is to provide them with adequate and stable power sources, while minimizing their size, weight, and impact on the textile properties. Batteries are the most common and convenient power sources, but they have limitations in terms of capacity, lifetime, and environmental impact. To reduce the dependence on batteries and extend the operation time of the sensors and actuators, energy harvesters can convert ambient energy sources such as light, heat, or motion into electric power. However, they also have drawbacks in terms of efficiency, consistency, and compatibility. Power management circuits can regulate the voltage, current, and frequency of the power supply to the sensors and actuators in order to optimize their power consumption and performance as well as protect them from overloading or short-circuiting.

3 Communication protocols and interfaces

A challenge of soft sensors and actuators is to enable them to communicate with each other and with external devices and networks, while still being flexible, robust, and compatible. Conductive threads or wires can be woven, knitted, embroidered, or sewn into the textile and form electrical connections or networks. Wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, can also be used to exchange data and power without physical wires or connectors. Additionally, communication protocols and interfaces can define the rules for data and power exchange between the sensors and actuators and other devices or networks. These protocols can ensure the compatibility, interoperability, and security of the communication process as well as the quality of the data and power transmission.