14 July 2009
One day, you won't need to fit your camera into your shirt pocket, as your shirt could be smart enough to take photographs by itself!
Scientists in America have made 'smart' fabric that can sense light.
The fibres have been stretched to form long thin strands that can be woven into normal fabric.
They have managed to put sensors in each strand and make them work together to send electrical signals when light falls onto them.
By knowing where the sensors are on each strand they have been able to imitate an image projected onto a small square of fabric, 10cm square in size.
This technology could be used with light or heat sensors in clothes to help people working in hostile environments or harsh conditions.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8143936.stm