Stretchability of Electronic Components Assembled on Fabric for Wearable Electronics Applications

The stretchability and flexibility of electronic components integrated into the fabric for wearable electronics, addressing the burgeoning market of wearable medical devices, were studied. With wearable medical device revenues projected to grow significantly, our research contributes to advancing wearable technology. Prior studies have investigated the integration of flexible LED displays and stretchable electronic systems into textiles, exemplifying the potential of wearable technology. Notable works include wearable LED displays with flexible conductive connections, stretchable systems combining traditional components with adaptable interconnectors, and stretchable printed circuit boards for wearable electronics. However, the challenge remains in developing electronic components that seamlessly integrating into fabrics, offering mechanical endurance while adhering to safety and commercial standards. Therefore, our primary objective was to investigate the flexibility and stretchability of electronic components assembled on fabric using cyclic stretching tests. Comprehensive experiments were conducted using custom-designed test vehicles, screen printing fabrication, and cyclic stretch tests. Our findings revealed substantial changes in mechanical and electrical behaviors, providing valuable insights into fabric-integrated electronics' viability for wearable applications.