Development and evaluation of a modular smart garment framework

PurposeThis study aims to develop and evaluate a modular smart garment design framework that simplifies the technical content associated with smart garment design.Design/methodology/approachSmart garment design challenges were first identified through literature review and interviews. Then, a modular framework and toolkit was created to address these challenges. Finally, workshops were held to evaluate the modular toolkit.FindingsInterviews highlighted the need for easier attachment of hard devices to soft textile materials, simpler electrical connection creation and straightforward device selection. A modular framework was proposed and divided into four elements: (1) the Central Computation Module, (2) Peripheral Electrical Modules, (3) Securely Attaching Modules with Substrates and (4) Managing Intra-garment Connections. Workshops showed the modular framework had statistically significant improvements in function and certain ease ratings when compared to non-modular components.Originality/valueThis research identified specific technical challenges faced by smart garment designers and alleviated them through a modular smart garment framework that in workshops outperformed non-modular components in key function and ease ratings.