Embroidery Parameters to Produce Conductive Tracks with Enhanced Conductivity

Textile-based electrically conductive tracks have been extensively used in smart garments since they are flexible enough to allow for good wear comfort. In this paper, the electrical conductivity of conductive tracks embroidered by using different parameters are studied, including type of stitch, placement of the conductive threads and number of stitch repeats. An analysis of the variance indicates that embroidering using conductive threads in both needle and bobbin can enhance the conductivity or provide the greatest reduction in the resistivity (about 50% of that of the conductive threads). This method excels the use of thrice embroidered stitches since it results in the lowest resistivity. Potential mechanical damage from multiple needle punching during the embroidering process can also be avoided. Finally, the findings are confirmed through electrical circuit models designed in accordance with lock stitch type 301.