The University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (ZČÚ), the RICE research centre, in cooperation with VÚB a.s., as part of the CLUTEX – cluster of technical textiles, z.s., research in the CORNET program, addressed new technologies for ultrasonic and thermocompression bonding and advanced methods of encapsulating textile conductors. These technologies are used in various applications, ranging from personal protective equipment and healthcare to heating textiles.

Based on the results of this pre-application research, VÚB a.s., in cooperation with the University of West Bohemia, has developed unique hybrid conductive threads and flexible conductive ribbons with directly integrated electronic components, ready for market launch. Other products using the developed technologies include, for example, smart firefighter suits, coveralls, and gloves, which industrial partners have already commercialised.

The University of West Bohemia continues to refine advanced manufacturing techniques, including electronic embroidery, computerised flat knitting technology, digital printing, lamination, 3D printing, and interconnection methods for the seamless integration of electronics into textiles.

Technology for E-Textiles

• Integration of electronic components and systems into textile substrates.
• Development of electronic textile components (e.g., hybrid conductive threads, stretchable flexible conductive ribbons, textile antennas, textile coaxial cables).
• Interconnection technology for e-textiles.
• Development of textile electrodes and sensors (e.g., temperature, presence, humidity, pressure, ECG, and EMG textiles).

Applications in E-Textiles

• Smart protective and work clothing, suits, shoes, gloves, and other accessories.
• E-textiles for healthcare (e.g., smart sheets, smart sleeves for monitoring skin hydration, functional T-shirts for monitoring breathing rate).
• Heated knitted fabrics with high resistance to washing and mechanical stress.

Flexible conductive ribbon with integrated LEDs	Knitted heated bed sheet
Hybrid thread	Smart firefighter suit and gloves
Thermocompression welding of flexible conductive ribbons

Contact:

VÚB a.s.
Na Ostrově 1165
562 01 Ústí nad Orlicí

Email: info@vubas.cz
Web: www.vubas.cz

Západočeská univerzita v Plzni (The University of West Bohemia in Pilsen)
Univerzitní 2732/8
301 00 Plzeň

Email: podatelna@zcu.cz 
Web: www.zcu.cz

Název zastřešující klastrové organizace:

CLUTEX - Klastr Technické textilie, o.s.