Weaving method-based capacitive yarn touch sensor fabricated of Cu/PET filament composite yarn

Abstract

In this study, we fabricated a textile-based touch sensor for use in smart clothing. Conductive yarns were fabricated in a sheath-core structure using PET and Cu filaments. E-textile touch sensors were woven using cotton yarns and Cu/PET filament composite conductive yarns, which were woven by varying the composition ratios (8:4, 12:7, and 16:9) of the conductive yarn used as warp and weft. The sensitivity of the e-textile touch sensors was evaluated by measuring their impedance under a load. We observed the highest sensitivity at an 8:4 ratio, owing to the largest change in impedance. Additionally, the sensitivity to touch speed, touch hold time, and touch intensity was measured considering the user’s touch motion. It was confirmed that the user’s touch motion affects the sensitivity of the e-textile touch sensor. This new e-textile touch sensor is expected to be useful in the field of wearable devices because it can be applied to various fabrics. HIGHLIGHTS Fiber only touch sensors were successfully manufactured. Touch performance was analyzed using a self-programmed program. Correlation of sensitivity with electrode composition and touch motion was analyzed.