A review of connectors and joining technologies for electronic textiles

Reliable connections between electronic circuits remain a challenge in electronic (e-) textiles, where circuitry and components are embedded into clothing and other soft objects. E-textiles that can measure physiological signals, deliver medical interventions, or act as a human-computer interface are becoming increasingly pervasive, and the market for such products is predicted to grow dramatically in the coming years. Despite market predictions, several technical and production challenges persist, and these need to be overcome in order to realize commercial success. Challenges include a lack of standards for materials and manufacturing methods, issues with durability and washability, and incompatibility between textiles and electronic manufacturing methods. Joining technologies are a central part of this, as connecting e-textile parts in a way that is electrically reliable and durable, without negatively impacting the form, fit, and function of a garment is challenging. This article reviews key joining technologies used in e-textiles to date, demonstrating that few solutions have been specifically developed for e-textile applications. Existing solutions are mostly connectors designed for use in rigid electronics, or textile closure mechanisms adapted to work with e-textiles. A need for development of new joining technologies for e-textiles, as well as further research into the performance of existing methods is highlighted.