E-textile from BAE Systems and Diggerworks

Julian Kerr | Brisbane

Power and data connectivity through a revolutionary e-textile that can be inserted into any garment has been developed by BAE Systems and was to be demonstrated to Diggerworks at the conclusion of Land Forces.

The e-textile is woven from conductive yarns to create a fabric power-and-data distribution network made up of several interconnecting components that together are dubbed the Broadsword system.

A power and data manager is coupled with the e-textile and then embedded with the garment to form the so-called Spine.

This eliminates snag hazards and the weight associated with conventional cables while improving heat dissipation and garment flexibility.

Power and data is provided via the Spine which allows equipment to be interchanged between any location.

Each of the eight connection points can supply or receive up to 5 amps of power while communicating over USB2, eliminating the need to carry multiple types of different batteries.

The central energy store comprises a lithium-ion battery with an integrated charger, held in a flexible, moulded and waterproof power pouch.

Power is automatically transferred as required to the Spine using the low-profile connectors.

If required, legacy systems can be adapted to integrate with Broadsword’s wireless loom.

The system includes an inductive seat charger.

This utilises a flexible 165 gram torso pack that connects into the Spine and is attached to the rear of an occupant’s load carriage or body armour.

The flexible seat pack is coupled to, or inserted into, the back seat of the vehicle seat and connects to the vehicle’s power system, with power then wirelessly transferred to the user when seated.