Fully textile striped triboelectric electroactive sensors for motion monitoring

Abstract

This study develops a novel, fully textile-knitted electroactive motion sensor based on the triboelectric effect. The sensor consists of knitted elements with different electroactivity, connected by conductive threads to measure electrical signals. When the wearer moves, charge transfers between clothing parts, inducing electric current pulses between the conductive elements. The pulse shape, amplitude, and length depend on movement speed and pressure. The study used a modified Martindale tester and processes described by the proposed theoretical model. Results show that the induced voltage pulses can reach 1.2 V, depending on contact surface area, pressure, and movement speed. This sensor can be seamlessly integrated into knitwear as a design element without compromising comfort and can be manufactured using commercially available yarn during knitwear production.