Selecting Microcontrollers for the Creation of Intelligent Textile Systems

Intelligent Textile Systems (ITS) have the potential to become a pivotal component within the Internet of Things (IoT), offering innovative functionality through secure connections between smart textiles and clothing, catering to a wide range of applications. The development of ITS necessitates the integration of a microprocessor, multiple sensors and actuators, an on/off switch, and an energy storage pack. In this context, the microcontroller assumes the role of the 'brain' in the e-textile design. The objective of our research paper is to present a comprehensive set of criteria for microcontroller selection during the development of ITS and electronic textiles. We analyze the distinctive characteristics of two prominent options, namely the Raspberry Pi minicomputers and Arduino microcontrollers. Additionally, we showcase two real-world examples of microcontroller selection within actual ITS projects.