The increasing demand for smart textiles, also known as electronic textiles, in the healthcare sector reflects a growing trend towards digitally enhanced fabrics that leverage light and batteries for operation. These fabrics possess the unique capability to sense environmental conditions, functioning through signals received from a central control unit (CCU). The analysis and interpretation of these signals occur through an embedded electric processor within the fabric, and the entire functionality of smart textiles is underpinned by nanotechnology.
In the healthcare domain, smart textiles find applications in various segments, including life belts (transabdominal wearable devices), telemedicine with the use of biomedical clothing, life jackets (which constantly monitor heart rate measurements and blood pressure), and smart bras (equipped with sensors to measure heart rates). These textiles play a pivotal role in the health industry by enabling the monitoring of vital signs such as Electrocardiogram (ECG), Electromyogram (EMG), and Electroencephalogram (EEG). Medical smart textiles provide continuous monitoring of patients' conditions, facilitate communication, and aid in positioning. The integration of smart wearable textiles reduces the inconvenience associated with frequent visits to clinics.
Recognizing these advantages, several companies, including Clothing Plus, Camira, Pireta, Stitch, Hexoskin, and 3Tecks, are actively engaged in research, development, and analysis of nanotechnology for its seamless integration with fabrics. These companies are manufacturing smart textiles not only for athletic purposes but also to meet the specific requirements of the medical field.
Medical smart textiles cater to the needs of hospitals, nursing homes, and various medical institutions by offering innovative products such as smart pediatric wear, smart medical gowns, and medical clothes. These textiles serve as invaluable tools for hospitals, providing accurate patient data through embedded sensors. Noteworthy startups leading the development of smart textiles for healthcare applications include Camira Fabrics, Hexoskin, and Pireta. Their contributions exemplify the transformative potential of smart textiles in enhancing healthcare monitoring, patient care, and overall medical practices.
Covered Aspects:
Report Attribute/Metric | Details |
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Market Opportunities | People around the world are becoming more health concerned than ever before as their lifestyles change, and this trend may continue due to shifting views in favour of prevention rather than cure. |
Market Dynamics | The demand for lightweight and durable materials is increasing in a variety of applications ranging from textiles, sports, and automotive to defense and space. |
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