Jane’s correspondent, Patrick Allen, talks to BAE Systems about their e-textile system, Broadsword Spine which allows electronic devices to be plugged straight into a vest, jacket or belt to be hooked into power and data. Broadsword Spine is an invisible network that is built directly into clothing, by using conductive fabrics instead of wires and cables. Electronic devices can be plugged straight into a vest, jacket or belt to be hooked into power and data. Automated management of the power and data is performed by an embedded management computer that forms part of the e-textile loom. A Smartphone app can be used to monitor and control Broadsword® Spine®, allowing greater control by the user.
