WO2021205188A1

WO2021205188A1 - Electronic unit for a garment

Info

Publication number: WO2021205188A1
Application number: PCT/GB2021/050883
Authority: WO
Inventors: Phil KUNOVSKI
Original assignee: Kymira Ltd.
Priority date: 2020-04-09
Filing date: 2021-04-09
Publication date: 2021-10-14
Also published as: GB2593925A; GB2593925B; GB202005309D0

Abstract

An electronic unit (100) for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capability is provided. The electronic unit (100) comprises a non- conductive substrate (105). The electronic unit also comprises one or more conductive tracks (110) disposed on the substrate (105). One or more electronic components (115a, 115b) are mounted on the substrate (105). The one or more electronic components (115a, 115b) are coupled to one or more of the conductive tracks (110) by an anisotropic conductive material (120).

Description

ELECTRONIC UNIT FOR A GARMENT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electronic unit for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities, an electronic strip for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities, and a garment having electronic capabilities.

BACKGROUND

Garments having electronic capabilities are becoming increasingly common. Such garments are often used for such purposes as monitoring of the wearer of the garment, for example using sensors mounted on the garment. In the fields of medicine and professional sport, monitoring of an individual in situ has the potential to provide invaluable information, for example to improve the reliability of a diagnosis or to improve performance.

However, garments having electronic capabilities are typically heavier and more restrictive for a wearer than conventional garments. That can be due to one or more of size or weight of any sensors or other electronic components or circuitry mounted on the garment, a location of any sensors or other electronic components or circuitry, or mechanical properties of any sensors or other electronic components or circuitry (for example, stiffness).

Garments which are excessively large or heavy, or restrict movement of the wearer, may inhibit normal activity or performance of a wearer. For example, the wearer may have to exert more effort when wearing the garment in order to achieve his or her normal or typical standard of activity or performance. In turn, the garment may therefore not provide an accurate or reliable indication of the activity or performance of the wearer. In addition, such garments can be uncomfortable for the wearer.

The present invention has been devised with the foregoing in mind.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, there is provided an electronic unit for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capability. The electronic unit may comprise a non- conductive substrate. One or more conductive tracks may be disposed on the substrate. One or more electronic components may be mounted or mountable on the substrate. The one or more electronic components may be coupled or couplable to one or more of the conductive tracks by an anisotropic conductive material.

Coupling the one or more electronic components to one or more of the conductive tracks using an anisotropic conductive material may reduce the risk of short-circuits between adjacent tracks. The limiting factor in preventing short-circuits may therefore be a resolution of the conductive tracks on the substrate, rather than properties or accuracy of application of a conventional adhesive material. An anisotropic conductive material may therefore improve reliability. An anisotropic material may also enable reduced spatial separation between adjacent conductive tracks to minimize an overall size of the electronic unit. Minimization of size is important for electronic units incorporated into garments, to maintain normal functioning and movement of the garment.

The anisotropic conductive material may be or comprise an anisotropic conductive film. Use of an anisotropic conductive film to couple the one or more electronic components to one or more of the conductive tracks may improve manufacturing efficiency. Manufacturing time may be significantly reduced compared to using conventional electrical and mechanical connections such as soldering or syringe-laid conductive paste.

The one or more conductive tracks may be disposed on or in a surface of the substrate.

The one or more conductive tracks may be or comprise a conductive ink. Conductive ink may be simple to dispose on a surface of the substrate, for example by printing or heat transfer. Conductive ink may also be applied in thin layers, reducing an overall weight of the electronic unit relative to alternative conductive tracks. Reducing weight is important for electronic units incorporated into garments, to maintain normal functioning and movement of the garment.

The conductive ink may be or comprise a stretchable conductive ink. A stretchable conductive ink may enable the conductive tracks to follow movement of the substrate when incorporated into a garment. In turn the stretchable conductive ink may accommodate strain whilst minimizing a risk of delamination of the conductive tracks from the substrate. That may improve performance and reliability of the electronic unit when incorporated into a garment.

The substrate may be or comprise a flexible material. A flexible material may allow the substrate to bend or twist when incorporated into a garment. A flexible material for the substrate may allow the electronic unit to follow movement of a garment caused by actions of a wearer of the garment. A flexible material for the substrate may not inhibit or prevent movement of a wearer of the garment. The flexible material of the substrate may be substantially non-extendible.

The substrate may be or comprise a resilient and/or non-extendible material. The substrate may comprise one or more portions of resilient material and/or one or more portions of non extendible material. One or both of the resilient material and/or non-extendible material may be or comprise a flexible material. A resilient material may accommodate strain caused by movement of a garment in which the electronic unit is incorporated. In contrast, a non extendible material may substantially not accommodate strain, and may instead isolate parts of the substrate from strain caused by movement of a garment in which the electronic unit is incorporated. Therefore, strain caused by movement of the garment may be concentrated in the portions of resilient material rather than in the portions of non-extendible material. The one or more electronic components may be mounted on the one or more portions of non-extendible material. Mounting electronic components on the one or more portions of non-extendible material may enable the electronic unit to protect the electronic components from damage caused by movement of the garment, by at least partially isolating the electronic components from strain. Additionally, strain and resulting stress caused by movement of the garment may be concentrated in the one or more portions of resilient material, which may further protect the electronic components from damage or unintended removal from the substrate.

The substrate may comprise a base layer that may comprise resilient material. The substrate may also comprise one or more portions of non-extendible material disposed on or in the base layer. That arrangement may be a simple, easy to manufacture implementation of a substrate having one or more portions of resilient material and one or more portions of non-extendible material.

The substrate may comprise alternating portions of resilient material and non-extendible material. Adjacent portions of resilient material and non-extendible material may be electrically and/or mechanically coupled. Adjacent portions of resilient material and non extendible material may be electrically and/or mechanically coupled by an anisotropic conductive material. The anisotropic conductive material may be or comprise an anisotropic conductive film.

One or more edges of the substrate may comprise one or more recesses. Additionally or alternatively, one or more edges of the substrate may comprise one or more projections. The recesses and/or projections may provide an anchoring point to secure the electronic unit to a garment. The one or more recesses and/or projection(s) may provide an electrical contact point for electrically connecting to an electrical conduit (for example, a conductive wire, or a conductive yarn or a conductive track).

According to a second aspect, there is provided an electronic strip for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capability. The electronic strip may comprise one or more active portions each comprising one or more electronic components. The electronic strip may also comprise one or more connecting portions, such as one or more resilient connecting portions, configured to electrically and/or mechanically couple to the one or more active portions.

The resilient connecting portions may accommodate strain caused by movement of a garment in which the electronic strip is incorporated. Strain and resulting stress on the electronic strip may therefore be concentrated in the resilient connecting portions rather than the active portions, which may protect the electronic components of the active portions from damage.

The resilient connecting portions may comprise a non-conductive resilient substrate. One or more conductive tracks may be disposed on the resilient substrate. The one or more conductive tracks may be disposed on a surface of the resilient substrate.

The one or more active portions may be electrically and/or mechanically coupled to the one or more resilient connecting portions by an anisotropic conductive material. The anisotropic conductive material may be or comprise an anisotropic conductive film.

Use of an anisotropic conductive material may provide a secure, reliable connection between adjacent portions whilst minimizing a risk of short-circuits between adjacent electrical connection points. Spatial separation between adjacent electrical connection points may therefore be reduced to minimize a size of the electronic strip. Minimization of size is important for electronic strips incorporated into garments, to maintain normal functioning and movement of the garment. Use of an anisotropic conductive film may also improve manufacturing efficiency of coupling adjacent portions. Manufacturing time may be significantly reduced compared to using conventional electrical and mechanical connections such as soldering or syringe-laid conductive paste.

The electronic strip may comprise an encapsulation layer. The encapsulation layer may substantially encapsulate the one or more active portions. The encapsulation layer may additionally substantially encapsulate the one or more resilient connecting portions. The encapsulation layer may protect the electronic strip from water ingress, for example during washing of a garment in which the electronic strip is incorporated, or during sweating of a wearer of the garment. The encapsulation layer may also protect the electronic strip from damage caused by dust, other foreign objects or impact forces (for example, if the garment is used by a wearer playing contact sports).

At least one of the one or more resilient connecting portions may be or comprise a plurality of branches. Branches may enable the resilient connecting portions to couple an active portion to a plurality of different active portions. For example, the different active portions may be provided at separate locations on a garment. In this way, branches in the resilient connecting portions may enable an interconnected network of active portions located at different areas across a garment to be formed. Locating the branches in a resilient connecting portion may allow different branches to move substantially independently of one other (for example, to follow movement of the garment). The branches may be integral to the resilient connecting portion. Alternatively, the branches may be provided by using an additional length of resilient connecting portion. The additional length of resilient connecting portion may be electrically and mechanically coupled to a resilient connecting portion directly coupled to an active portion.

The one or more active portions may comprise at least one electronic unit in accordance with the first aspect.

According to a third aspect, there is provided a garment having electronic capabilities. The garment may comprise one or more electronic units e.g. in accordance with the first aspect. The garment may comprise one or more electronic strips e.g. in accordance with the second aspect.

The garment may enable simplified monitoring of parameters relating to a wearer of the garment to be measured in situ. The electronic components may be incorporated directly into the garment, rather than requiring separate electronic components or sensors to be affixed or attached to the garment. Additionally, the structure of the electronic units and electronic strips may enable minimisation of a size and weight of the electronic units and/or electronic strips. In turn, the garment may be provided with electronic capability without compromising on wearability of the garment, for example without interfering with normal functioning and movement of the garment once the electronic units and/or electronic strips are incorporated into the garment. The garment may therefore be particularly suitable for monitoring parameters relating to a wearer during exercise or sport activity. The parameters relating to a wearer of the garment may be physiological parameters or environmental parameters. Physiological parameters may include but are not limited to heart rate, muscle activity, blood oxygenation and acceleration. Environmental parameters may include but are not limited to temperature and humidity.

The at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip may be releasably anchored or connected to the garment. The releasable connection may be or comprise a releasable mechanical connection such as a press-stud or popper, or a screw-threaded connection (for example, a connection comprising complementary male and female screw threads configured to engage with one another). That may enable the at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip to be disconnected from the garment.

The garment may comprise one or more conductive yarns. Additionally or alternatively, the garment may comprise one or more conductive wires. The garment may further additionally or alternatively comprise one or more conductive tracks. The garment may additionally or alternatively comprise carbon nanotubes, for example, one or more fibers comprising carbon nanotubes. The garment may comprise one or more of the above in different areas of the garment.

The garment may comprise an electrical bus to which one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips are electrically connected. An electrical bus may enable separate electronic units and/or electronic strips to communicate with one another, for example, to transmit data from electronic components on one electronic unit or electronic strip to electronic components on another electronic unit or electronic strip. An electrical bus may enable an interconnected network of electronic units and/or electronic strips across the garment. Different electronic strips or electronic units may comprise different electronic components best suited to being positioned at particular parts of the garment. An electrical bus may enable those different electronic strips or electronic units to communicate with one another without moving the electronic strips or electronic units from an optimal position on the garment.

The electrical bus may comprise one or more of i) one or more conductive yarns, ii) one or more conductive wires, iii) one or more conductive tracks, and iv) carbon nanotubes, for example one or fibres comprising carbon nanotubes. The electrical bus may be formed from or comprise different materials in different areas of the garment.

The electrical bus may be releasably connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip. The electrical bus may be connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip via a releasable connection. The releasable connection may be a releasable mechanical connection such as a press-stud or popper, or a screw-threaded connection. That may enable the at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip to be disconnected from the electrical bus and from the garment.

The electrical bus may be connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by one or more conductive yarns sewn into the garment.

The electrical bus may be connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by a conductive adhesive. The conductive adhesive may be or comprise an anisotropic conductive material such as an anisotropic conductive film.

The electrical bus may be connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by one or more conductive tracks. The one or more conductive tracks may be printed or heat transferred onto the garment.

The one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips may be integrated into fabric of the garment. Integrating the electronic strips and/or electronic units into the fabric of the garment may both house and protect the electronic strips or electronic units from damage. The one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips may be knitted or woven into the fabric of the garment. The one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips may additionally or alternatively be located within a seam in the fabric of the garment. The one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips may further additionally or alternatively be stitched into the fabric of the garment. The one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips may be stitched into the fabric of the garment by a couching stitch.

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided an electronic unit or electronic strip for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit or electronic strip may comprise a non-conductive substrate. The substrate may comprise one or more resilient portions and one or more non-extendible portions. The one or more resilient portions and one or more non-extendible portions may be arranged in an alternating pattern. One or more conductive tracks may be disposed on a surface of the substrate. One or more electronic components may be mounted on the one or more non-extendible portions of the substrate.

According to a fifth aspect, there is provided an electronic unit or electronic strip for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit or electronic strip may comprise a non-conductive substrate. The substrate may comprise one or more resilient portions and one or more non-extendible portions. One or more of the resilient portions may comprise a plurality of branches. One or more conductive tracks may be disposed on a surface of the substrate. One or more electronic components may be mounted on the one or more non-extendible portions of the substrate.

According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing an electronic unit or electronic strip. The electronic unit or electronic strip may be or comprise the electronic unit of the first aspect or the electronic strip of the second aspect. The method may comprise disposing one or more conductive tracks onto a substrate. The method may further comprise disposing or mounting one or more electronic components on the conductive tracks. The method may comprise applying a conductive adhesive, such as an anisotropic conductive adhesive, to the conductive tracks to mount the one or more electronic components on the conductive tracks.

Optional features of any of the above aspects may be combined with the features of any other aspect, in any combination. For example, features described in connection with the electronic unit of the first aspect may have corresponding features definable with respect to the electronic strip of the second aspect or the garment of the third aspect, and these embodiments are specifically envisaged. The method of the sixth aspect may have corresponding features definable with respect to the electronic unit of the first aspect, the electronic strip of the third aspect or the garment of the third aspect, and these embodiments are specifically envisaged. Features which are described in the context or separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and/or be interchangeable wherever possible. Similarly, where features are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, those features may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A shows an embodiment of an electronic unit comprising a flexible substrate in accordance with the invention;

FIG. IB shows a side view of the electronic unit shown in FIG. 1A; FIG. 2A shows an embodiment of an electronic unit comprising a substrate having alternating resilient extendible portions and flexible non-extendible portions in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2B shows a side view of the electronic unit shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A shows an embodiment of an electronic unit comprising a substrate having a flexible non-extendible portions disposed on a resilient extendible base layer in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 3B shows a side view of the electronic unit shown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of an electronic unit comprising a substrate having recesses in lateral edges of the substrate in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of an electronic unit comprising a substrate having projections extending from a longitudinal end of the substrate in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of an electronic strip comprising active portions and resilient connecting portions in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 6B shows a side view of the electronic strip shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C shows an embodiment of an electronic strip comprising an encapsulation layer in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7A shows an embodiment of an electronic strip comprising branches in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7B shows an alternative embodiment of an electronic strip comprising branches in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of a process for manufacturing electronic units and/or electronic strips in accordance with the invention; FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a garment comprising electronic units and electronic strips in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of a garment comprising electronic strips located within a seam of the garment in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a garment comprising electronic strips integrated into fabric of the garment using a couching stitch in accordance with the invention.

Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 1A and IB show an embodiment of an electronic unit 100 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit 100 comprises a non-conductive substrate 105. A plurality of conductive tracks 110 is disposed on a surface of the substrate 105. A first electronic component 115a is mounted on the substrate 105 and coupled to two of the conductive tracks 110. A second electronic component 115b is mounted on the substrate 105 and coupled to another two of the conductive tracks 110. The electronic components 115a, 115b are coupled to the respective conductive tracks 110 using an anisotropic conductive material 120 (shown in hatching in Figure IB).

In the embodiment shown, the substrate 105 comprises a flexible material (for example, polymeric materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyurethane (PU), other organic materials including biodegradable materials, or fabric materials such as woven or non- woven fabrics) to allow the substrate to bend or twist when incorporated into a garment. This allows the electronic unit 100 to respond to and follow movement of the garment caused by a wearer’s actions. Movement of the wearer of the garment is not inhibited or prevented as it would be by a stiff, inflexible electronic unit. However, the flexible material of the substrate 105 is substantially non-extendible. A flexible but non-extendible material for the substrate 105 may enable the electronic unit 100 to accommodate movement of the garment caused by a wearer’s actions without damaging the electronic components 115a, 115b. The flexible non extendible material of the substrate 105 effectively acts to isolate (at least partially) the electronic components 115a, 115b from any strain (and resultant stress) which the garment is subjected to, because the substrate 105 on which the electronic components 115a, 115b are mounted is substantially non-extendible. The flexible non-extendible material of the substrate 105 may therefore reduce the likelihood of damage to the electronic components 115a, 115b or unintended removal of the electronic components 115a, 115b from the substrate 105 during movement of the garment. Alternatively, the substrate 105 may not comprise a flexible material, for example if the electronic unit 100 is to be located in an area or region of a garment which is not likely to be subjected to significant movement or strain (such as a lower back area of the garment).

The anisotropic conductive material 120 mechanically and electrically couples the electronic components 115a, 115b to the conductive tracks 110. The anisotropic conductive properties of the anisotropic conductive material 120 allow electrical conduction through a thickness of the material 120 between the electronic components 115a, 115b and the conductive tracks 110 (for example, in the direction of the arrow A in Figure IB), but prevent in-plane electrical conduction across the material transverse to the through-thickness direction (for example, in the direction of the arrow B in Figure 2). Short-circuits between adjacent conductive tracks 110 may therefore be prevented or substantially reduced, as the limiting factor becomes the resolution of the conductive tracks 110 on the substrate 105. This is in contrast to conventional conductive adhesives or pastes, which electrically conduct in all directions. For conventional conductive adhesives, the limiting factor is often electrical properties or application accuracy of the adhesive or paste mechanically and electrically coupling the electronic components, which can result in short-circuits. As a result, using the anisotropic conductive material 120 may enable a reduced spatial separation between the conductive tracks 110, allowing a size of the electronic unit 110 as a whole to be reduced (or alternatively enabling more electronic components 115 to be mounted on a substrate 105 of the same size). A reduced size of the electronic unit 110 is paramount in order for the electronic unit 110 not to interfere with normal functioning and movement (generally referred to as ‘wearability’) of a garment once the electronic unit 110 is incorporated into the garment.

In the embodiment shown, the anisotropic conductive material 120 comprises an anisotropic conductive film. The anisotropic conductive film is an adhesive film that securely adheres the electronic components 115a, 115b to the conductive tracks 110. The anisotropic conductive film enables a secure mechanical connection whilst minimising a thickness of the electronic unit 110, which may further reduce a size of the electronic unit 110. Although the embodiment shown comprises an anisotropic conductive film, other anisotropic conductive materials such anisotropic conductive pastes or adhesives may alternatively be used.

In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 110 comprise a conductive ink disposed (for example, printed such as ink-jet printed or screen printed, or heat transferred) on the surface of the substrate 105. The conductive ink may be or comprise a loaded ink (for example, loaded with conductive material such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, metallic material (such as metallic particles)) or a liquid polymer material. Other conductive materials may be disposed on the surface of the substrate 105 to form the conductive tracks 110. For example, conductive wires may be adhered to the surface of the substrate 105 to form conductive tracks 110.

Figures 2A and 2B show another embodiment of an electronic unit 200 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit 200 is similar to the electronic unit 100 described above, comprising a non-conductive substrate 205, a plurality of conductive tracks 210 disposed on a surface of the substrate 205, and electronic components 215 mounted on the substrate 205 and each coupled to the conductive tracks 210 by an anisotropic conductive material 220.

The substrate 205 comprises alternating portions of resilient extendible material 205a (for example, polymeric materials such as polyurethane (PU) or other organic materials including biodegradable materials) and a flexible, substantially non-extendible material 205b (for example, PET). The electronic components 215a, 215b are mounted on the non-extendible portions 205b, but not on the resilient extendible portions 205a. As discussed above, the flexible non-extendible portions 205b act to isolate (at least partially) the electronic components 215a, 215b from any strain to which the garment is subjected without inhibiting or preventing movement of the wearer of the garment. However, the resilient extendible portions 205a are able to accommodate strain caused by movement of the garment. Strain and resulting stress on the electronic unit 200 caused by movement of the garment is therefore concentrated in the resilient extendible portions 205a rather than the flexible non-extendible portions 205b, further protecting the electronic components 215a, 215b. Alternatively, the portions 205b of the substrate 205 may not comprise a flexible material, for example if the electronic unit 200 is to be located in an area or region of a garment which is not likely to be subjected to significant movement or strain (such as a lower back area or limb segments of the garment).

Adjacent portions 205a, 205b are mechanically and electrically coupled by an anisotropic conductive material 220. In the embodiment shown, the anisotropic conductive material 220 is an anisotropic conductive film as described above. The anisotropic conductive material 220 provides a robust connection between adjacent portions 205a, 205b. The conductive tracks 210 on each portion 205a, 205b are also mechanical and electrically coupled by the anisotropic conductive material 220 such that each conductive track 210 extends across multiple portions 205a, 205b. In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 210 extend substantially across a full length of the substrate 205, but it will be appreciated that is not essential. The conductive tracks 210 shown in dashed lines on the resilient extendible portions 205a indicate that the conductive tracks 210 are on a lower surface of the portions 205a in the top view of Figure 2A (illustrated in greater detail in Figure 2B).

In order for the resilient extendible portions 205a to accommodate strain effectively, the conductive tracks 210 on the resilient extendible portions 205a are also required to accommodate strain in order to avoid, for example, delamination of the conductive tracks 210 from the substrate 205. In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 210 comprise a stretchable conductive ink to enable the conductive tracks 210 to extend with, contract with and otherwise follow movement of the resilient extendible portions 205a. In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 210 comprise stretchable conductive ink on each of the portions 205a, 205b. Alternatively, a stretchable conductive ink may be used for the conductive tracks 210 only on resilient extendible portions 205a of the substrate 205. Since the flexible non extendible portions 205b do not substantially extend in response to garment movement, stretchable conductive ink may not be used for the conductive tracks 210 on those portions 205b. A conventional conductive ink may be used for the conductive tracks 210 on the flexible non-extendible portions 205b. The conductive tracks 210 may alternatively comprise or be formed by a different conductive material, for example by conductive wires disposed on the resilient extendible portions 205a (and optionally also on the flexible non-extendible portions 205b). The conductive wires may comprise one or more bends or curves in the conductive wire (for example, a serpentine pattern) to allow the wires to extend with, contract with and otherwise follow movement of the electronic unit 200. A conventional conductive ink may also be used for the conductive tracks 310 on the resilient extendable portions 205a if the conventional conductive ink is arranged in a serpentine pattern (for example, slaloming or oscillating substantially perpendicular to a direction of expected stretch). That may reduce an overall strain to which the conductive ink of the conductive tracks 210 experiences. That may result in more robust conductive tracks 210.

The resilient extendible portions 205a and the flexible non-extendible portions 205b are all substantially the same length in the embodiment shown, although the portions 205a, 205b may each have a different length. The respective lengths of each portion 205a, 205b may be dictated by an intended arrangement or location of the electronic unit 200 in a garment (for example, near a joint of a wearer of the garment such as an elbow joint, shoulder joint, wrist joint, knee joint, hip joint etc.)

Figures 3A and 3B show a further embodiment of an electronic unit 300 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit 300 is similar to the electronic unit 200 described above, comprising a non-conductive substrate 305, a plurality of conductive tracks 310 disposed on a surface of the substrate 305, and electronic components 315 mounted on the substrate 305 and each coupled to the conductive tracks 310 by an anisotropic conductive material 320.

Instead of alternating portions of resilient extendible material and flexible non-extendible material (as described above with respect to the electronic unit 200), the substrate 305 comprises a base layer 305a comprising a resilient extendible material. Portions of flexible, non-extendible material 305b are disposed on the base layer 305a. The electronic components 315 are mounted on the non-extendible portions 305b, but not on the resilient extendible base layer 305a. As discussed above, the flexible non-extendible portions 305b act to isolate (at least partially) the electronic components 315 from any strain to which the garment is subjected. However, the resilient extendible base layer 305a is able to accommodate strain caused by movement of the garment. Strain and resulting stress on the electronic unit 300 caused by movement of the garment is therefore concentrated in the resilient extendible base layer 305a rather than the flexible non-extendible portions 305b, further protecting the electronic components 315. The flexible, non-extendible portions 305b may be uniformly distributed along the base layer 305a. Alternatively, the portions 305b may be disposed on the base layer 305a at irregular intervals (different distances between adjacent flexible non extendible portions 205b). The irregular intervals may be dictated by an intended arrangement or location of the electronic unit 300 in a garment.

The flexible non-extendible portions 305b are mechanically and electrically coupled to the resilient extendible base layer 305a by an anisotropic conductive material 320. In the embodiment shown, the anisotropic conductive material 320 is an anisotropic conductive film as described above. The conductive tracks 310 on the base layer 305a and the flexible non extendible portions 305b are also mechanically and electrically coupled by the anisotropic conductive material 320 such that each conductive track 310 extends across multiple parts of the substrate 305. In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 310 extend substantially across a full length of the substrate 305, but it will be appreciated that is not essential. The conductive tracks 310 shown in dashed lines on the flexible non-extendible portions 305b indicate that the conductive tracks 310 are on a lower surface of the portions 305b in the top view of Figure 3A (illustrated in greater detail in Figure 3B).

In the embodiment shown, the electronic components 315 are sandwiched between the flexible non-extendible portions 305b (on which the electronic components 315 are mounted) and the resilient extendible base layer 305a. The electronic components 315 may therefore be protected from damage from, for example, direct impact when the electronic unit 300 is incorporated into a garment.

The conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 are substantially linear in the embodiments shown, but one or more conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 may follow a non-linear path. For example, one or more conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 may comprise one or more bent, curved or angled portions which alter the direction of travel of the conductive track 110, 210, 310 across the substrate 105, 205, 305. The electronic unit 100, 200, 300 comprises a plurality of conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 in the embodiments shown, but a single conductive track 110, 210, 310 may alternatively be used. A layer of dielectric or encapsulating material may be disposed over the conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 except for locations at which the conductive tracks 630b may be required to form an electrical connection to electronic components 115, 215, 315, or to conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 of other substrate portions 205a, 205b, 305a, 305b. It will be appreciated that multiple layers of alternating conductive layers or tracks 110, 210, 310 and dielectric layers may be employed. That may enable an electronic unit 100, 200, 300 having a multi-layer structure to be produced.

The electronic components 115, 215, 315 are mounted on the substrate 105, 205, 305 such that the electronic components 115, 215, 315 are coupled to separate pairs of conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 in the embodiments shown. Each electronic component 115, 215, 315 may alternatively be coupled to only a single conductive track 110, 210, 310, or to more than two conductive tracks 110, 210, 310. Two or more electronic components 115, 215, 315 may also be coupled to a common conductive track 110, 210, 310 (for example, to enable electronic communication between multiple electronic components 115, 215, 315). Although the embodiments shown comprise a plurality of electronic components 115, 215, 315, the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 may comprise a single electronic component 115, 215, 315. The electronic components 115, 215, 315 may comprise one or more of an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, temperature sensor, strain sensor, bend sensor, light sensor, humidity sensor, electrocardiography (ECG) probe, electromyography (EMG) probe, electroencephalography (EEG) probe, photoplethysmography (PPG) probe, pH sensor, microprocessor, passive electrical components (such as capacitors, inductors, resistors) and active electrical components (such as signal amplifiers).

Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of an electronic unit 400 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit 400 comprises a non- conductive substrate 405. A plurality of conductive tracks 410 is disposed on a surface of the substrate 405. Electronic components (not shown) may be mounted on the substrate 405 and coupled to the conductive tracks 410 by an anisotropic conductive material (not shown), as described above with respect to the electronic units 100, 200, 300 shown in Figures 1A, IB, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B.

Figure 4 shows an end region of the substrate 405. Lateral edges 406 of the substrate 405 comprise a plurality of recesses 407. Recesses 407 on opposing lateral edges 406 are aligned substantially opposite one another to form pairs of recesses 407. Each pair of recesses 407 is aligned with an end of a conductive track 410. The pairs of recesses 407 provide an anchoring point to secure the electronic unit 400 to a garment. For example, a yarn or thread may be sewn over and/or around each pair of recesses 407 to secure the electronic unit 400 to a garment. If a yarn is sewn into the recesses 407, the electronic unit 400 may be securely attached to the garment. A conductive yarn or thread may be used, which may act to both secure the electronic unit 400 to a garment and also form an electrical contact with the conductive track 410 that is aligned with the pair of recesses 407 between which the conductive yarn is sewn.

In the embodiment shown, the electronic unit 400 comprises opposing pairs of recesses 407 in lateral edges 406 of the substrate 405. Alternatively, only one lateral edge 406 may comprise recesses 407. Similarly, one or both lateral edges 406 may comprise only one recess 407 (for example, if the electronic unit 400 comprises only one conductive track 410). The recesses 407 need not be located at an end region of the substrate 405, but may be located at any point along the lateral edge(s) 406 of the substrate 405. In the embodiment shown, the pairs of recesses 407 are uniformly spaced apart from one another, but alternatively recesses 407 or pairs of recesses 407 may be non-uniformly distributed along the lateral edge(s) 406 of the substrate 405 (for example, to provide anchoring points at specific desired locations).

In the embodiment shown, each conductive track 410 extends to a different longitudinal position on the substrate 405. An end of each conductive track 410 is aligned with a separate pair of recesses 407. That arrangement may provide a distinct electrical connection location for each conductive track 410 (for example, with a corresponding conductive yarn). Alternatively, two or more conductive tracks 410 may extend to the same longitudinal position on the substrate 405. Ends of a plurality of conductive tracks 410 may align with a single recess 407 or pairs of recesses 407. That arrangement may enable multiple conductive tracks 410 to form an electrical connection with a common electrical conduit (for example, a single conductive yarn forming an electrical contact with multiple conductive tracks 410).

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of an electronic unit 500 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic unit 500 comprises a non- conductive substrate 505. A plurality of conductive tracks 510 is disposed on a surface of the substrate 505. Electronic components (not shown) may be mounted on the substrate 505 and coupled to the conductive tracks 510 by an anisotropic conductive material (not shown), as described above with respect to the electronic units 100, 200, 300 shown in Figures 1A, IB, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B.

Figure 5 shows an end region of the substrate 505. A longitudinal end 506 of the substrate 505 comprises a plurality of projections 507 extending longitudinally from the end 506. The projections 507 are each of a different length. Each projection 507 is aligned with a conductive track 510. Each conductive track 510 extends longitudinally along the projection 507 it is aligned with. For example, each conductive track 510 may extend longitudinally past a bulk portion of the substrate 505 (that is, past the point where the projection 507 begins). The projections 507 provide an anchoring point to secure the electronic unit 500 to a garment. For example, a yarn or thread may be sewn over and/or around each projection 507 to secure the electronic unit 500 to a garment. If a yarn is sewn around the projections 507, the electronic unit 500 may be securely attached to the garment. A conductive yarn or thread may be used, which may act to both secure the electronic unit 500 to a garment and also form an electrical contact with the conductive track 510 that is aligned with the projection 507.

In the embodiment shown, the electronic unit 500 comprises a plurality of projections 507 extending from a longitudinal end 506 of the substrate 505. Alternatively, the substrate 505 may comprise only one projection 507. The projections 507 may each be of different lengths, or two or more projections 507 may be of substantially the same length. The projections 507 need not extend from a longitudinal end 506 of the substrate 505, but may alternatively extend from one or both lateral edges of the substrate 505 (for example, in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the electronic unit 500). In the embodiment shown, the projections 507 are uniformly separated from one another, but alternatively projections 507 may be non- uniformly distributed along a longitudinal end 506 or lateral edge(s) of the substrate 505 (for example, to provide anchoring points at specific desired locations).

Alternatively, an electronic unit 100, 200, 300 may be anchored to a garment using a press- stud or popper connection (commonly known as a ‘snap-fit’ connection). The electronic unit 100, 200, 300 may comprise a press-stud or popper which extends from the substrate 105, 205, 305. The press-stud or popper may be disposed on or in contact with one or more conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 of the electronic unit 100, 200, 300. The press-stud or popper is configured to engage with a corresponding recess located on the garment. A mechanical (and optionally electrical) connection between the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 and the garment is formed by the press-stud or popper being received in the recess. A snap-fit connection may improve ease of anchoring the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to the garment, and may enable the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to be releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the garment. In addition, snap-fit connections are commonly used in clothing and would be simple to implement at low-cost. One or more snap fit connections may be used to connect the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to the garment. Other releasable mechanical connectors may be used to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to the garment. For example, a connector comprising a male or female screw thread may be located on the one or more electronic units 100, 200, 300 may be configured to engage with a connector comprising a complementary female or male screw thread located on the garment to form a releasable electrical and mechanical connection between the electronic unit 10, 200, 300 and the garment. A rivet may alternatively be used to anchor the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to the garment. The rivet may form both a mechanical and electrical connection between the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 and the garment. The rivet may anchor the electronic unit 100, 200, 300 to the garment such that the rivet forms an electrical contact with one or more conductive tracks 110, 210, 310 of the electronic unit 100, 200, 300.

Figures 6A and 6B show an embodiment of an electronic strip 600 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic strip 600 comprises an active portion 625 each comprising one or more electronic components 615. The electronic strip 600 also comprises one or more resilient connecting portions 630 configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the one or more active portions 625.

The resilient connecting portions 630 are able to accommodate strain caused by movement of a garment in which the electronic strip 600 is incorporated. Strain and resulting stress on the electronic strip 600 caused by movement of the garment is therefore concentrated in the resilient connecting portions 630 rather than the active portion 625, protecting the electronic components 615 of the active portion 625 from damage.

In the embodiment shown, the active portion 625 comprises the arrangement described above with respect to the electronic unit 300. Alternatively, any of the electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 described above may form an active portion 625 of the electronic strip 600. The active portion 625 may also comprise any electronic unit comprising one or more electronic components 615.

In the embodiment shown, the resilient connecting portions 630 comprise a non-conductive resilient extendible substrate 630a. A plurality of conductive tracks 630b is disposed on a surface of the substrate 630a. In the embodiment shown, the conductive tracks 630b comprise a stretchable conductive ink to enable the conductive tracks 630b to extend with, contract with and otherwise follow movement of the resilient extendible substrate 630a when the electronic strip 600 is incorporated into a garment. The conductive tracks 630b substantially align with conductive tracks 610 of the active portion 625 (formed by the electronic unit 300). Alternatively, the conductive tracks 630b may align with one or more electrical connection terminals of an active portion 625, to allow an electrical and mechanical connection to be formed between the electrical connection terminals and the conductive tracks 630b. The conductive tracks 630b shown in dashed lines on the substrate 630a indicate that the conductive tracks 630b are on a lower surface of the substrate 630a in the top view of Figure 6A (illustrated in greater detail in Figure 6B). The conductive tracks 630b may alternatively comprise or be formed by a different conductive material, for example by a conductive wire disposed on the substrate 630a with one or more bends or curves in the conductive wire (for example, a serpentine pattern) to allow the wire to extend with, contract with and otherwise follow movement of the substrate 630a. A layer of dielectric or encapsulating material may be disposed over the conductive tracks 630b except for locations at which the conductive tracks 630b may be required to form an electrical connection to electrical connection terminals of active portions 625, or to conductive tracks 630b of other connecting portions 630.

The resilient connecting portions 630 are mechanically and electrically coupled to the active portion 625 by an anisotropic conductive material 620. In the embodiment shown, the anisotropic conductive material 320 is an anisotropic conductive film as described above. The conductive tracks 630b on the resilient connecting portions 630 and the conductive tracks 610 on the active portion 625 are also mechanically and electrically coupled by the anisotropic conductive material 620 to form a conductive track that extends across multiple parts of the electronic strip 600. Alternatively, the conductive tracks 630b may be mechanically and electrically coupled to one or more electrical connection terminals of an active portion 625 by an anisotropic conductive material 620. Alternatively, other materials may be used to mechanically and electrically couple the resilient connecting portions 630 to the active portion 625, for example a conventional conductive adhesive or paste, or solder.

In the embodiment shown, the electronic strip 600 comprises one active portion 625, but the electronic strip 600 may comprise a plurality of active portions 625. The conductive tracks 630b are substantially linear in the embodiment shown, but one or more conductive tracks 630b may follow a non-linear path. For example, one or more conductive tracks 630b may comprise one or more bent, curved or angled portions which alter the direction of travel of the conductive track 630bacross the substrate 630a. The electronic unit 600 comprises a plurality of conductive tracks 630b in the embodiment shown, but a single conductive track 630b may alternatively be used.

The resilient connecting portions 630 are all substantially the same length in the embodiment shown, although the connecting portions 630 may alternatively each have a different length. The respective lengths of each connecting portion 630 may be dictated by an intended arrangement or location of the electronic strip 200 in a garment (for example, near a joint of a wearer of the garment such as an elbow joint, shoulder joint, wrist joint, knee joint, hip joint etc.) It may be preferable for the resilient connecting portions 630 to be incorporated into a garment at or near areas of the garment which experience significant amounts of movement or high intensity movement (for example, joints), with active portions 625 situated on areas of the garment which are exposed to lower amounts of movement or lower intensity movement (for example, limb segments).

Figure 6C shows an embodiment of an electronic strip 600’ for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic strip 600’ is substantially similar to the electronic strip 600 described above. The electronic strip 600’ further comprises a layer of encapsulating material 635 (for example, PU, vinyl, silicone, rubber). The encapsulation layer 635 may protect the electronic strip 600’ from water ingress, for example during washing of a garment in which the electronic strip 600’ is incorporated, or during sweating of a wearer of the garment. The encapsulation layer 635 may also protect the electronic strip 600’ from damage caused by dust or other foreign objects, and/or from impact forces (for example if the garment is used by a wearer playing contact sports).

Figure 7A shows an embodiment of an electronic strip 700 for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capabilities. The electronic strip 700 is similar to the electronic strip 600 described above, comprising a plurality of active portions 725 each comprising one or more electronic components (not shown), and one or more resilient connecting portions 730 configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the active portions 725.

A resilient connecting portion 730 of the electronic strip 700 comprises two branches 730c, 730d. The branches 730c, 730d are formed at a branching point 730e (indicated by the dashed circle in Figure 7). Each of the branches 730c, 730d is configured to provide a conductive path in a different direction to the other branch 730c, 730d. This may enable each branch 730c, 730d to mechanically and electrically couple to different active portions 725 intended to be provided at separate locations on a garment, without requiring a separate or additional electronic strip. For example, an active portion 725 located at a lower back area of a garment could be in electrical communication with another active portion 725 located on one shoulder of the garment via a first branch 730c of a connecting portion 730, and in electrical communication with a further active portion 725 located on the other shoulder of the garment via a second branch 730d of the connecting portion 730. Providing a branching point 730e in a resilient connecting portion 730 may also allow the branches 730c, 730d to move independently of one another in response to movement of the garment, without causing damage to the resilient connecting portion 730.

In the embodiment shown, the resilient connecting portion 730 comprises two branches 730c, 730d, but alternatively the resilient connecting portion 730 may comprise a higher number of branches. This may enable an interconnected network of active portions 725 connected via a web of branches stemming from a resilient connecting portion 730. The two branches 730c, 730d are arranged in a general Ύ-shape’ in the embodiment shown, but any number of separate branches 730c, 730d may be arranged at any orientation relative to one another (for example, two branches 730c, 730d may be arranged in a general ‘T-shape’). In the embodiment shown, different conductive tracks 730b continue along different branches 730c, 730d. Alternatively, one or more conductive tracks 730b may also comprise corresponding branches in order for the conductive track 730b to continue along a plurality of branches 730c, 730d.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 7A, the branching point 730e is integral to the resilient connecting portion 730. Alternatively, the branching point 730e may be provided by mechanically and electrically coupling another length of resilient connecting portion 730 to a resilient connecting portion 730 directly coupled to an active portion 725, as shown in Figure 7B. In the embodiment shown, the different branches 730c, 730d are mechanically and electrically coupled by an anisotropic conductive material (not shown) as described above, for example an anisotropic conductive film. In the embodiment shown, each conductive track 730b of the first branch 730c is mechanically and electrically coupled to each conductive track 730b of the second branch 730d. Alternatively, the conductive tracks 730b of one branch 730c may be coupled to one or some of the conductive tracks 730 of another branch 730d.

Each of the electronic strips 600, 600’, 700 may comprise one or more projections or recesses as described above with respect to the electronic units 400, 500. The one or more projections or recesses may provide an anchoring point to secure the electronic strip 600, 600’, 700 to a garment. Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a process 800 for manufacturing electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and electronic strips 600, 600’, 700 as described above.

One or more conductive tracks are disposed on a sheet of substrate material at step 802. The substrate material comprises a flexible, non-extendible material (for example, PET), or may comprise a resilient extendible material (for example, PU). In an embodiment, disposing the conductive tracks onto the sheet of substrate material comprises printing (for example, screen printing) tracks of a conductive ink onto the sheet of substrate material. Conductive tracks may alternatively be disposed onto the sheet of substrate material using other techniques such as heat transfer, or adhesive (for example, if the conductive tracks comprise conductive wires). The sheet of substrate material may be large enough (for example, wide enough and/or long enough) to print conductive tracks for a plurality of electronic units or electronic strips, which may result in more economical manufacturing of the electronic units or electronic strips. In an embodiment, the sheet of substrate material may comprise a roll of substrate material to enable continuous or semi-continuous production. The one or more conductive tracks (or a part of one or more of the conductive tracks) may be cured (or at least partially cured) before any further steps take place. Curing of the one or more conductive tracks may take place at room temperature or at an elevated temperature (for example between substantially 80°C and substantially 200°C). Alternatively or additionally, curing may comprise irradiation with UV light.

Optionally, at step 804, a layer of dielectric or encapsulating material is disposed over the conductive tracks. The layer of dielectric or encapsulating material may be or comprise PU, silicone (for example, vulcanised silicone), rubber, vinyl or polyimide (for example, Kapton®). The layer of dielectric or encapsulating material may be disposed over the conductive tracks except for locations which are required for electrical connection to the conductive tracks. As above, the layer of dielectric or encapsulating material (or a part of the layer of dielectric or encapsulating material) may be cured (or at least partially cured) before any further steps take place. Curing of the layer of dielectric or encapsulating material may take place at room temperature or at an elevated temperature (for example between substantially 80°C and substantially 200°C). Alternatively or additionally, curing may comprise irradiation with UV light.

Steps 802 and 804 may be repeated as needed to provide a multi-layer structure for the electronic unit 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 or electronic strip 600, 600’, 700 (as described above). At step 806, a conductive adhesive is applied to the conductive tracks. The conductive adhesive is applied to the conductive tracks where electrical connections to the conductive tracks are required (for example, exposed parts of the conductive tracks not covered by a layer of dielectric or encapsulating material. In an embodiment, the conductive adhesive is an anisotropic conductive film. The anisotropic conductive film may be aligned with the conductive tracks and placed into a desired position. Alternatively, the conductive adhesive may be or comprise another anisotropic conductive material such as anisotropic conductive paste or adhesive, or a conventional conductive adhesive such as a conductive paste (for example, a silver paste) or solder may be used instead. The conductive adhesive may be applied by syringe (either automated or manual).

Electronic components are disposed on the conductive adhesive at step 808. The electronic components may be disposed on the conductive adhesive manually, or an automated pick and place process or machine may be utilised. Electronic components may not be disposed on some or all of the conductive adhesive. As discussed above, electronic components may be disposed on flexible, non-extendible substrate material. Step 808 may not be applicable for resilient, extendible substrate material such as in embodiments of electronic units having multi- component substrates (for example, alternating portions of resilient extendible material and flexible non-extendible material, or portions of flexible non-extendible material disposed on a base layer of resilient extendible material), or for resilient connecting portions of electronic strips. The conductive adhesive may instead be intended to form an electrical connection between, for example, conductive tracks on different substrate portions.

Optionally, the sheet of substrate material is divided into a number of portions at step 810. Each portion may be sized to form a part of an electronic unit or electronic strip. Each portion may have a different size (for example, a different length), or two or more portions may have the same size (for example, the same length). Each portion may comprise one or more conductive tracks. Step 810 is applicable for embodiments in which the sheet of substrate material is large enough to print conductive tracks for a plurality of electronic units or electronic strips (such as a roll of substrate material in continuous or semi-continuous production). Alternatively, single portions for use in an electronic unit or electronic strip may be manufactured. In an embodiment, the sheet of substrate material is divided using laser cutting. Alternatively, the sheet of substrate material may be divided using other means such as a cutting blade or a stamp.

The electronic units or electronic strips are assembled from the portions of substrate material with conductive tracks (and optionally electronic components) disposed thereon at step 812. The portions may be arranged in a manner as described with respect to electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and electronic strips 600, 600’, 700. The conductive adhesive disposed on the conductive tracks at the desired locations is used to mechanically and electrically couple adjacent portions to form an electronic unit or electronic strip.

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a garment 900 comprising an electronic strip 940 to provide the garment 900 with electronic capabilities. In the embodiment shown, the garment 900 is a sweatshirt, but any garment may be used, for example, a t-shirt, hoodie, jacket, coat, vest, shorts, trousers etc. The garment 900 may be a compression garment configured to apply compression to one or more body parts of the wearer, for example as used in sportswear garments.

In the embodiment shown, the garment 900 comprises a plurality of electronic strips 940, but alternatively a single electronic strip 940 may be incorporated into the garment 900. The electronic strips 940 may be the electronic strips 600, 600’, 700 described above. The garment 900 may comprise one or more electronic units such as the electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 described above, in addition to or in place of the electronic strips 940.

A garment 900 comprising electronic strips 940 or electronic units may allow parameters (for example, physiological parameters or environmental parameters) relating to the wearer of the garment 900 to be measured in situ. Measurement may be made simpler by the electronic components being incorporated directly into the garment 900, rather than requiring separate electronic components or sensors to be affixed or attached to the garment 900 to provide the garment 900 with electronic capability. Physiological parameters of the wearer may include heart rate, muscle activity (for example, electromyography measurements), blood oxygenation, acceleration, limb forces (for example, from accelerometers and gyroscopes), skin temperature, core temperature (for example, inferred from skin temperature), neurological activity (for example, electroencephalography measurements), sweat ion content and concentration, relative body position (for example, inferred from accelerometers), orientation (for example, relative to magnetic north using a magnetometer). Environmental parameters relating to the wearer may include external temperature, external humidity, light intensity, radiation (for example, ionising and non-ionising), air content and quality (for example, concentration of toxic chemicals or hazardous gases).

In the embodiment shown, the garment 900 comprises an electrical bus 945. In the embodiment shown, each of the electronic strips 945 is electrically connected to the electrical bus 945. Alternatively, some of the electronic strips 940 or electronic units may not be electrically and mechanically connected to the electrical bus 945. The electrical bus 945 may allow electronic components located on different electronic strips 940 or electronic units in the garment 900 to communicate with one another (for example, to transmit data from electronic components on one electronic strip 940 or electronic unit to electronic components on one or more other electronic strips 940 or electronic units of the garment 900). The electrical bus 945 may therefore allow a garment network to be formed. Any number of electronic strips 940 or electronic units may form part of the garment network. Different electronic strips 940 or electronic units positioned in different areas of the garment 900 may have different electronic components configured to measure or monitor different parameters relating to the wearer of the garment 900. Different areas of the garment 900 may be more suitable for monitoring particular parameters relating to the wearer of the garment 900. For example, measuring parameters such as heart rate, respiration or electrocardiography may be best performed using electronic components located substantially on a torso of the garment 900. Measuring parameters such as muscle activation (for example, during sports or activity) may be best performed using electronic components located substantially on limbs of the garment 900. Measuring electroencephalography is performed using a garment 900 comprising electronic components located substantially on a head of the garment 900 (for example a hat, or hood of a larger garment). Measurement of parameters such as heart rate and oxygen saturation using pulse oximetry may be best performed using electronic components located substantially at or near a wrist or ankle of the garment 900 (for example, due to thinner skin in those areas of the body).

The electrical bus 945 can be formed from any type of electrical transmission line. For example, the electrical bus 945 may comprise one or more conductive tracks (for example, printed or heat transferred onto the garment 900). Alternatively or additionally, the electrical bus 945 may comprise one or more conductive wires. The one or more conductive wires may be contained within a cable sheath at locations other than those required to form an electrical connection with the electronic strips 940 or electronic units. Further alternatively or additionally, the electrical bus 945 may comprise one or more conductive yarns (for example, sewn or stitched into or forming part of the material of the garment 900). The electrical bus 945 may alternatively or additionally comprise carbon nanotubes, for example, one or more fibres comprising carbon nanotubes (for example, carbon nanotube fibres). The electrical bus 945 may be formed from different electrical transmission lines in different areas of the garment 900. Different areas of the garment 900 may be subjected to different mechanical forces and/or have different mechanical requirements. For example, in areas of the garment 900 in which greater magnitude of movement is required, the electrical bus 945 may comprise conductive yarns. The conductive yarns may be sewn into the material of the garment 900 and therefore may be able to move relative to other threads or yarns of the garment 900. In contrast, in areas of the garment 900 which are relatively stationary, the electrical bus 945 may comprise conductive tracks. Conductive tracks 945 may be affixed directly to the material of the garment 900, so may be less able to accommodate movement of the garment 900.

The type of transmission line forming the electrical bus 945 may determine how the electronic strips 940 or electronic units are connected to the electrical bus 945. For example, if the electrical bus 945 is formed by one or more conductive tracks, the conductive tracks may be printed or heat transferred directly over the electronic strips 940 in order to form a mechanical and electrical connection between the electrical bus 945 and the electronic strips 940. The electrical bus 945 may therefore simultaneously be affixed to the garment 900. Alternatively, if the electrical bus 945 comprises one or more conductive yarns sewn into the garment 900, the conductive yarns may be sewn over the conductive tracks of the electronic strips 940 to form a mechanical and electrical connection as described above for the electronic units 400, 500. The electronic strips 940 may comprise a substrate having one or more recesses or one or more projections to receive one or more of the conductive yarns. If the electrical bus 945 comprises one or more conductive wires, a conductive adhesive (for example, an anisotropic conductive film) may be used to form an electrical and mechanical connection between the electrical bus 945 and the electronic strips 940.

It will be appreciated that any transmission line forming the electrical bus 945 may be connected to the electronic strips 940 using any of the above mentioned connections. For example, any electrical bus 945 may be connected to one or more electronic strips 940 using one or more conductive tracks (for example, printed or heat transferred onto the garment). Any electrical bus 945 may alternatively be connected to one or more electronic strips 940 using a conductive adhesive (for example, an anisotropic conductive film). Any electrical bus 945 may be connected to one or more electronic strips 940 using one or more conductive yarns. Any electrical bus 945 may be connected to one or more electronic strips 940 using solder.

Alternatively, an electrical bus 945 may be connected to one or more electronic strips 940 and/or electronic units using a press-stud or popper connection (commonly known as a ‘snap- fit’ connection), as described above with respect to the electronic units 100, 200, 300. The one or more electronic strips 940 and/or electronic units may comprise a press-stud or popper. The press-stud or popper is configured to engage with a corresponding recess on the garment 900. The recess may be electrically connected to the electrical bus 945. A press-stud or popper connection may therefore enable the one or more electronic strips 940 and/or electronic units to be releasably electrically connected to the electrical bus 945 and releasably mechanically anchored to the garment 900. Other releasable mechanical connectors may be used to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the one or more electronic strips 940 to the electrical bus 945. For example, a connector comprising a male or female screw thread may be located on the one or more electronic strips 940 may be configured to engage with a connector comprising a complementary female or male screw thread located on the garment 900 to form a releasable electrical and mechanical connection between the one or more electronic strips 940 and the electrical bus 945.

The layout and position of the electrical bus 945 on the garment 900 in the embodiment shown is schematic in nature. The electrical bus 945 may be positioned in any area or location of the garment 900 depending on a location or position of any electronic strips 940 or electronic units on the garment 900. The electrical bus 945 may be located on the garment 900 in areas that may be less likely to experience or less exposed to bending or flexion than other areas of the garment 900 (such as limb segments, head, or lower back of the garment 900). Additionally or alternatively, the electrical bus 945 may be positioned on the garment 900 in areas of the garment 900 that may be less likely to experience or less exposed to physical impact (for example, during sports or activity, such as a back of the garment 900). The choice of location may be dictated by the specific application and may be a compromise between robustness, comfort to the wearer and complexity of garment construction. For example, if additional seams and panels would need to be incorporated into the garment 900 at the desired location on the garment 900 to accommodate the electrical bus 945, the electrical bus 945 may be positioned elsewhere on the garment 900.

Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a garment 1000 comprising electronic strips 1040 incorporated into fabric of the garment 1000. The electronic strips 1040 may be the electronic strips 600, 600’, 700 described above. The garment 1000 may comprise one or more electronic units such as the electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 described above, in addition to or in place of the electronic strips 1040.

In the embodiment shown, the electronic strip 1040 is integrated into the fabric of the garment 1000 by being located within a seam 1050 of the garment 1000 (for example, where two fabric panels 1052a, 1052b forming part of the garment 1000 meet). The seam 1050 is formed by looping an edge of a first fabric panel 1052a back on itself to form an enclosed channel within which an electronic strip 1040 is disposed. An edge of a second fabric panel 1052b is laid over the channel and the two panels 1052a, 1052b are sewn or stitched together, indicated by the dashed lines on either side of the electronic strip 1040. The seam 1050 of the garment 1000 houses the electronic strip 1040 and may protect it from damage. A seam 1050 may be located either on an internal surface of the garment 1000 or on an external surface of the garment 1000 when worn by a wearer. An external seam 1050 may provide greater comfort for the wearer. A seam 1050 may be positioned at any location on a garment, but may be positioned on one or more of an arm of the garment 1000 (for example a medial or lateral side of the arm), a leg of the garment 1000 (for example a medial or lateral side of the leg), a side of a chest of the garment 1000, a shoulder of the garment 1000 or a waist of the garment 1000 as an indication of some non-limiting examples. A seam 1050 may be located to provide optimal comfort whilst minimizing inhibition of movement of the wearer of the garment 1000. Alternatively, a seam 1050 or multiple seams 1050 may be located in order to provide an optimal path for an electrical bus of the garment 1000 (such as electrical bus 945 discussed above) to electrically connect different electronic strips 1040.

An edge of the first fabric panel 1052a may comprise an adhesive configured to adhere the electronic strip 1040 to the first fabric panel 1052a within the enclosed channel. The adhesive may prevent movement or twisting of the electronic strip 1040 within the seam 1050 of the garment 1000. The adhesive may be a heat activated adhesive. The heat activated adhesive may be activated once the seam 1050 has been sewn, for example by ironing the seam 1050 or using a heated press to apply heat and pressure to the seam 1050.

Figure 11 shows another embodiment of a garment 1100 comprising electronic strips 1140 incorporated into fabric of the garment 1100. The electronic strips 1140 may be the electronic strips 600, 600’, 700 described above. The garment 1100 may comprise one or more electronic units such as the electronic units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 described above, in addition to or in place of the electronic strips 1140.

In the embodiment shown, the electronic strip 1140 is integrated into the fabric of the garment 1100 by being stitched into the fabric of the garment 1100. In the embodiment shown, a couching stitch is used to stitch the electronic strip 1140 into the fabric of the garment 1100, but alternatively other stitches may be used. To employ a couching stitch, the electronic strip 1140 is laid on the fabric of the garment 1100 in a desired position or location. A thread or yarn 1154 is then passed through the fabric layer and over the electronic strip 1140 repeatedly to form a plurality of yarn loops 1154a around the electronic strip 1140. The yarn loops 1154a act to secure the electronic strip 1140 to the fabric of the garment 1100 and also form a cocoon or sheath around the electronic strip 1140. The yarn loops 1154a may be tightly packed (for example, each yarn loop 1154a is in contact with an adjacent yarn loop 1154a) or may be spaced apart from one another. The sheath or cocoon formed by the yarn loops 1154a houses the electronic strip 1140 and may protect the electronic strip 1140 from damage.

Alternatively, the electronic strip 1140 may be knitted or woven into the fabric of the garment 1100. For example, the electronic strip 1140 may be used as a weft yarn during weaving of the fabric of the garment 900. The electronic strip 1140 may be a different size (for example, one or more of length, width and thickness) to other yarns used in fabric of the garment 1100. In some embodiments, the electronic strip 1140 may interweave with each consecutive warp yarn. In some embodiments, the electronic strip 1140 may not interweave with each of the warp yarns. For example, the electronic strip 1140 may remain on the same side of a plurality of consecutive warp yarns before being passed over (or under) another warp yarn to continue weaving. That may expose a length of the electronic strip 1140 on one side of the fabric of the garment 110. In that way, the electronic strip 1140 may be located substantially on an internal surface of the garment 1100 (when worn by a user).

From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to the skilled person. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art of garments incorporating electronic capabilities, and which may be used instead of, or in addition to, features already described herein.

Although the appended claims are directed to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.

Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom. Features of the devices and systems described may be incorporated into/used in corresponding methods. Where features are disclosed in connection with one embodiment of a garment incorporating electronic capabilities, it should be appreciated that any one or more or all of the same features may be incorporated in other embodiments of garments incorporating electronic capabilities, instead of or in addition to the features described for the particular embodiment. I.e. any and all combinations of features are envisaged, and are envisaged to be interchangeable, replaceable, added or removed. For the sake of completeness, it is also stated that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, the term "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality, a single processor or other unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims and any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic unit for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capability, the electronic unit comprising: a non-conductive substrate; one or more conductive tracks disposed on the substrate; and one or more electronic components mounted on the substrate, the one or more electronic components coupled to one or more of the conductive tracks by an anisotropic conductive material.

2. The electronic unit of claim 1, wherein the anisotropic conductive material comprises an anisotropic conductive film.

3. The electronic unit of claim 1 or of claim 2, wherein the one or more conductive tracks comprise a conductive ink, and optionally wherein the conductive ink is or comprises a stretchable conductive ink.

4. The electronic unit of any preceding claim, wherein the substrate comprises a flexible material.

5. The electronic unit of any preceding claim, wherein the substrate comprises one or more portions of resilient material and one or more portions of non-extendible material.

6. The electronic unit of claim 5, wherein the one or more electronic components are mounted on the one or more portions of non-extendible material.

7. The electronic unit of claim 6, wherein the substrate comprises: a base layer comprising resilient material; and one or more portions of non-extendible material disposed on the base layer.

8. The electronic unit of claim 6, wherein the substrate comprises alternating portions of resilient material and non-extendible material.

9. The electronic unit of claim 8, wherein adjacent portions of resilient material and non-extendible material are electrically and mechanically coupled.

10. The electronic unit of claim 9, wherein adjacent portions of resilient material and non-extendible material are electrically and mechanically coupled by an anisotropic conductive material, and optionally wherein the anisotropic conductive material comprises an anisotropic conductive film.

11. The electronic unit of any preceding claim, wherein: i) an edge of the substrate comprises one or more recesses; and/or ii) an edge of the substrate comprises one or more projections.

12. An electronic strip for incorporating into a garment to provide the garment with electronic capability, the electronic strip comprising: one or more active portions each comprising one or more electronic components; and one or more resilient connecting portions configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the one or more active portions.

13. The electronic strip of claim 12, wherein the resilient connecting portions comprises: a non-conductive resilient substrate; and one or more conductive tracks disposed on a surface of the resilient substrate.

14. The electronic strip of claim 13, wherein the one or more conductive tracks comprise a conductive ink, and optionally wherein the conductive ink is or comprises a stretchable conductive ink.

15. The electronic strip of any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the active portions are electrically and mechanically coupled to the resilient connecting portions by an anisotropic conductive material, and optionally wherein the anisotropic conductive material comprises an anisotropic conductive film.

16. The electronic strip of any of claims 12 to 15, further comprising an encapsulation layer substantially encapsulating the active portions and the resilient connecting portions.

17. The electronic strip of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the resilient connecting portions comprises a plurality of branches.

18. The electronic strip of any of claims 12 to 17, wherein the active portions comprises at least one electronic unit according to any of claims 1 to 11.

19. A garment having electronic capabilities, the garment comprising: one or more electronic units according to any of claims 1 to 11; and/or one or more electronic strips according to any of claims 12 to 18.

20. The garment of claim 20, wherein the garment comprises one or more of: i) one or more conductive yarns; ii) one or more conductive wires; iii) one or more conductive tracks; and iv) carbon nanotubes.

21. The garment of claim 19 or of claim 20, wherein the garment comprises an electrical bus to which one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips are electrically connected.

22. The garment of claim 21, wherein the electrical bus comprises one or more of: i) one or more conductive yarns; ii) one or more conductive wires; iii) one or more conductive tracks; and iv) carbon nanotubes.

23. The garment of claim 22, part i), wherein the electrical bus is connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by one or more conductive yarns.

24. The garment of claim 22, wherein the electrical bus is connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by a conductive adhesive, and optionally wherein the conductive adhesive comprises an anisotropic conductive material, and further optionally wherein the anisotropic conductive material is or comprises an anisotropic conductive film.

25. The garment of claim 22, wherein the electrical bus is connected to at least one electronic unit and/or electronic strip by a conductive track, and optionally wherein the conductive track is printed or heat transferred onto the garment.

26. The garment of any of claims 19 to 25, wherein the one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips are integrated into fabric of the garment.

27. The garment of claim 26, wherein the one or more electronic units and/or electronic strips are: i) knitted or woven into the fabric of the garment; ii) located within a seam in the fabric of the garment; iii) stitched into the fabric of the garment, and optionally by a couching stitch.

28. The garment of claim 19, wherein one or more of the electronic units and/or electronic strips are releasably connected to the garment; or the garment of claim 21 or of claim 22, wherein one or more of the electronic units and/or electronic strips are releasably connected to the electrical bus.