Exploring the Use of 3D Printing to Support Electronics on Wearable Thermal Garments
This study explored the use of 3D printing to support a user interface for a wearable thermal garment. It can be difficult to combine hardware and wearable garments because electronics typically don’t conform to the body well, which may impede movement and introduce uncomfortable friction with the skin. The hardware may also be fragile and require a support system to keep it in place and protected. The user interface includes a layer of capacitive fabric that cover pressure sensitive buttons that a user pushes to adjust the temperature and control which zones on the garment are heated.This study focused on creating a 3D printed system with NinjaFlex filament, a pliable material, onto a tulle fabric layer. Prototypes of different designs were designed and generated adjusting the thickness of the layer, the density of the filament and the shape to account for different shapes of buttons. User testing gave feedback about the comfort of the layer and the functionality of the capacitive inputs. The final design is a 3D printed matrix printed on tulle fabric that is sewn into the sleeve between the capacitive fabric and the fleece. This layer serves as support for the electronics and to fortify the sleeve so it keeps its shape.