Knitted RESi is a force and stretch sensing textile knit, based on our previously presented force sensing technical yarn (see RESi). The yarn features a metallic core with piezo-resistive coating and yields pressure sensors similar to FSRs (Force-Sensing Resistors), wherever traces of the yarn intersect.

Together with knitting expert Kobleder GmbH, industry partner in our TextileUX research project, we implemented a knit capable of sensing external stress, such as pressure, stretch, and any other deformation. We demonstrate the functionality in a mock-up providing live feedback and visualization of the sensor readings. The textile is highly durable and strikingly responsive with a high signal-to-noise ratio.

Due to the inherent favorable properties of textiles (being lightweight, highly flexible, comfortable on skin, breathable) we see a wide range of practical applications ranging from consumer electronics to medicine as well as lightweight construction in aviation and automotive engineering.