Why this course

Intelligent or smart textiles are around for about ten years now. Worldwide more than 100 research projects have been accomplished, numerous papers have been presented in journals and at conferences and thousands of gadgets have been introduced to the market. Besides informing people about intelligent textiles on a theoretical level, this workshop emphasizes the practical application of the knowledge - from theory to application in real prototypes. It is time to see what has actually been achieved - It's SHOWTIME!

Part I will equip the participant with fundamental theoretical knowledge and practical insights in the field of intelligent textiles. The practical workshop, STS ToolTime, by Riccardo Marchesi from Plug and Wear shall lead to a better understanding of the information obtained in the lecture of Prof. Lieva Van Langenhove comprising the theoretical part of the workshop.

Part II will consolidate the knowledge gained in the first part. During the interactive exhibition, Smart Textiles Salon, the participant can see, touch and experience realized smart textiles in functioning prototypes. The knowledge gained in Part I can directly be transferred - from theory to reality - in various fields of applications. Besides stimulating the participant's creativity, this concept will inform the participant about existing prototypes and possible application areas of smart textiles.

SYSTEX is a European coordination action on intelligent textile systems. One focus of the project is on training and education. SYSTEX wants to make people aware of smart textiles and show them what is already available. It is the second edition of the Smart Textiles Salon (STS), an annual interactive exhibition of intelligent textiles which has been introduced successfully in September 2009. Rather than listening to presentations, researchers and people from industry can experience working prototypes, they can see, feel and discuss achievements and challenges.

Framework

SYSTEX is the FP7 Coordination Action for Enhancing the Breakthrough of E-Textiles and Wearable Microsystems in Europe.

The project aims at developing a framework for current and future actions in research, education and technology transfer in the field of e-textiles and wearable microsystems in Europe and supports the textile industry to transform into a dynamic, innovative, knowledge-driven, competitive and sustainable sector (www.systex.org ).

Project coordination: Lieva Van Langenhove, Ghent University, Department of Textiles

Project Consortium: UGENT, SMARTEX, UNIPI, IMEC, PHILIPS, MULTITEL, IFTH, BVBA ANNE DEMOOR, IHOFMANN, PLASTIC ELECTRONICS