Google files patent for gesture-sensing fabrics

Google has filed a patent with the US Patent & Trademark Office for its gesture control system developed under the Project Jacquard. This system works with smart-garments which make use of interactive textiles. These textiles can sense touch-based hand gestures to send out commands to devices kept in pockets or purses for carrying out pre-defined functions.

The interactive textile comprises two layers woven using conductive threads, says the patent application published on the US Patent & Trademark Office website. The conductive threads used in both the layers are configured to form a capacitive touch sensor which is coupled with a textile controller that can detect touch-input on the sensor.

This input provides touch data which is used to control the computing device wirelessly coupled with the interactive textile.

This new technologically-advanced fabric can be used for making garments such as jackets, jeans, caps, shirts, jerseys, purses and much more. The incorporation of this technology into garments will allow users to answer calls, control volume levels of music or change song tracks without even touching their smartphones or media players. They will simply need to tap their fingers or use the swiping gesture on their clothing items to carry out specific functions on the devices.

Google has partnered with Levi’s for its Project Jacquard and integrated the gesture-sensing technology into the brand’s Commuter Trucker jacket which is meant for urban bike commuters. Jacquard allows users to control their mobile experience and connect to a variety of services, such as music or maps, directly from the jacket. This is especially useful when it might be difficult to use the smartphone, like when users are riding on their bikes, says the Google website. (KD)