This is a new
product category where
electronics are integrated into
fabrics, creating "
intelligent" cloth. The applications are
myriad, ranging from purely
cosmetic to highly
functional.
A "smartshirt" could change its color, or display different logos or text when programmed by the wearer.
A t-shirt could incorporate medical sensors to monitor a person's heart functions constantly, or sense their body chemistry by analyzing their sweat. Ditto for a hat that monitors brain function for epileptics or stroke victims.
In a military uniform, the cloth could include adaptive camouflage, or at least be able to change pattern and color for different environments, and include heating or cooling capability. A combat uniform and boots could also include piezo- or thermoelectric materials to power the soldier's gear. This could also extend to civilian clothes powering the owner's computer-watch or PDA.
A computer or music player could even be integrated into a jacket. How about a TV screen on your sleeve?
What about clothing that could change its size, cut, or fit? How about self-cleaning suit, with you in it?
As the technology improves, all of these applications and more will be addressed. There are already products available with fiber-optics woven in, and clothes like the Scott E-vest that have vias for cables and specialty pockets for personal electronics sewn in.
Some sites to check out:
http://www.scottevest.com
http://www.reimasmart.com
http://bharattextile.com/library/003024.php