The Fabric Evolution

UK-based Eleksen has developed ElekTex fabric sensors that could lead to a whole class of new applications and may, mind you, herald a new age in industrial design!
Elektex is exactly like traditional fabric – it can be easily washed and ironed, and is very durable and cheap to make. However, Elektex fabric can actually conduct electricity, hence its promising potential in giving rise to totally new applications. The ElekTex sensors use conductive fibres to send electrical signals to any motors that might be present. They have no wires and can be used in material less than 1mm thick. ElekTex is essentially a sandwich of conductive textiles with two outer layers separated by a partially conductive inner layer. Pressure on the material causes the inner layer to conduct, connecting the outer layers together (Source: Eleksen).

Already, Elektex has found its use in a smart car seat that automatically adjusts itself to the position of the occupant. Sensors in the arm control the motor – including an auto recline function that activates when the user is detected and returns to an upright position if the chair is empty. Other uses include a cloth keyboard for handheld computers and a spongy cell phone that can be washed. The possibilities are endless: Elektex could be used for carpets that play music when walked on, a smart hospital blanket that warns nurses to move an immobile patient so as to prevent bed sores, and many others (Source: Wired News).

Let’s Get Down To Business…
If you had lots of money to spend, you might be better off channeling some funds in research and innovation than doing more marketing and promotion. Just look at Eleksen. With its breakthrough Elektex technology, the company is well poised to start a new evolution in the industrial design scene. In the founders’ own words: “This is seriously going to make a difference to product interfaces. It’s a huge opportunity for people to reinvent what products look like and to invent products that have never been done before.” Wise words, indeed!
Related Ideas & Trends
Science of Touch [Eleksen.com]
Ideo.com Case Study
Introducing Touchy-Feely Tech [Wired News]