Knitted RESi: A Highly Flexible, Force-Sensitive Knitted Textile Based on Resistive Yarns

Abstract

We demonstrate a force sensing knitted textile, based on a piezo-resistive yarn. The resulting elastic, stretchable, and robust textile exhibits sensors based on the widespread Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR) principle. As a proof-of-concept, we implemented a knit consisting of multiple piezo-resistive wales, each intersecting with a single vertical piezo-resistive insert, spawning discrete FSRs at the respective intersection points. While enabling monitoring of external stress, such as pressure, stretch, and deformation, the textile features inherent pleasant haptic qualities.