1 February 2009
Plug.in
Basel, Switzerland
This workshop aims to be an introduction into soft fabric electronic circuits and a DIY concept of wearable technology. Both in our own projects and in workshops we choose to introduce affordable, available, off-the-shelf materials, basic techniques and detailed instructions, so that workshop participants can continue to develop their own ideas and solutions at home. We believe that sewing, soldering and experimenting with materials is not hard and should become everyday practice.

Since the workshop takes place during the Ying Gao exhibition at the Plug.in gallery, we decided to chose a circuit with mechanical output (as supposed to light or sound). The circuit we chose is the same as Derstrudel uses for their Overheadbots. A small solar cell charges one or two large capacitors, which then naturally discharge, powering a motor. Depending on the amount of sun, the motor will run constantly or in bursts.
Using this circuit to convey our soft circuit methods and techniques, we would also like to leave creative space for individual expression and design. Another important aspect for us is to encourage the participants to contextualize their wearable. Think about what you want before thinking about what to make. Once you know what you want, there are various ways to express it. The components can be integrated and connected in different ways. The solar cell as power source offers one to think about possible interaction scenarios with the sun. The motor output can be used for rotation, winding and off-centered motion. And everything is situated on the body.

Downloads

Download schematic
Download motor pouch stencil
Download button battery pouch stencil
Download single AA battery pouch stencil
Download double AA battery pouch stencil (coming soon…)

Relevant Links

Solar T-Shirt Instructable
www.KOBAKANT.at
www.cs.colorado.edu/~buechley
www.sparkfun.com
www.lessemf.com
www.talk2myshirt.com/blog/

Materials

Conductive fabric, conductive thread, fusible, poppers, metal faseners, hook-up wire, sponge, velostat, neoprene, regular fabric, regular thread, t-shirts or other (old) clothing items, power supply, components or circuit…

Tools

Sewing needles, sewing machine, iron and board, soldering stations, wire cutters, wire strippers, pliers, multi-meters, hole makers, cutting mats, fabric scissors, popper machines, pens and paper…

Pictures on Flickr