The bizarre balaclava that could save you from a chest infection

November 22, 2016

Prototype runs off a small rechargeable battery in a pouch at the back
It uses conductive yarn to heat the air circulating around the wearer’s face
Its makers claim that wearers are unable to feel the low electrical current

Ryan O’Hare for MailOnline

Published:
11:57 EST, 22 November 2016

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Updated:
13:18 EST, 22 November 2016

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It might not be the most fashionable piece of headgear, but a new smart balaclava could help wearers avoid chest infections this winter.

By heating the cold air before it reaches their mouth, the battery-powered balaclava reduces the impact of chilly conditions on the lungs.

Researchers claim the design could also help to protect athletes training outside in colder climes or in winter months.

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A heated balaclava, which uses smart textiles to heat cold air before it reaches the mouth could help to reduce chest infections in athletes training in cold conditions, claim its makers

Developed by German textile machine manufacturer Stoll, the prototype balaclava is powered by a small rechargeable battery, stored in a pouch on the back of the head.

With green stitching, the technical knitwear incorporates a patch of electric-conductive yarn around the mouth and nose which heats the surrounding air.

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Its makers claim the wearer cannot feel the electricity passing through the fabric as the current is so low.

A prototype of the device has been designed for runners and skiers who train in the cold.

With slick green stitching, the technical knitwear incorporates a patch of electric-conductive yarn around the mouth and nose which heats the surrounding air

SMART TEXTILES

The smart balaclava, developed by UK researchers and German textile machine manufacturer Stoll, is powered by a small rechargeable battery, stored in a pouch on the back of the head.

By passing a low current through conductive wire-like yarn, it is able to heat the area around the nose and mouth.

As the current is so low, the wearer does not feel it.

Its makers claim it could help to reduce the risk of chest infections in runners, skiers and other athletes training in cold conditions.

Professor Tilak Dias, leader of Nottingham Trent’s Advanced Textiles Research Group, who worked on the project, said: ‘This balaclava is the tip of the iceberg of what can be achieved through collaborative research into smart textiles.

‘By using electric-conductive yarns which are so tiny that they cannot be felt by human skin, we’re able to provide a consistent level of warmth to a piece of clothing so that a runner only breathes in warm air.

‘It’s good example of how smart textiles can be used to improve people’s lives. With the application of heated textiles, we can help reduce the risk of athletes contracting illnesses related to cold weather.’

As well as being machine washable, it features reflective strips uses 3D-knitted pre-shaping for a better fit.

The prototype, which has been made from a knit of wool-Lycra blend, was a Gold Winner at the OutDoor Industry Awards.

Jury members said: ‘The seamless construction is great – when we tried it on, the balaclava is really comfortable and the heating system around the mouth is a fine idea.

Developed by UK researchers and German textile machine manufacturer Stoll, the prototype balaclava is powered by a small rechargeable battery, stored in a pouch on the back of the head (pictured)

In a video highlighting the advanced textiles, Stoll also showcases reflective yarns as well as near-field technology to activate a smartphone in a hidden back pouch for use as a flashing light.

Researchers are hoping to change what we wear by introducing more smart fabrics.

Earlier this year, a team at Penn State university showcased fabrics which can ‘heal’ themselves.

By adding water to scraps of the garment they were able to stick them together, with the final strip proving strong and flexible, while other demonstrations showed its ability to patch holes.

Other groups are demonstrating smart threads which can change colour, opening the door for clothes which can be switched based on mood.

A former Google exec that smart fabric could one day harness kinetic energy, effectively being powered by the wearer’s movements.