Abstract: Yarns incorporating filaments of shape memory materials are described herein that enable the creation of fabrics, garments, and other materials with tunable force absorption or exertion capabilities, as well as creating complex shapes and structures upon actuation. Systems and methods described herein enable selective buckling, recruitment, compression, and other desirable phenomena by actuating fibers in knitted patterns, whether used as isolated filaments or in twisted yarns.

Abstract: Advances in actuating fabrics could enable a paradigm shift in the field of smart wearables by dynamically fitting themselves to the unique topography of the human body. Active fabrics and fitting mechanisms are described herein that enable garments to conform around surface concavities without requiring high elasticity or a multiplicity of closure devices. Advanced materials and systems innovations (1) enable novel garment manufacturing and application strategies, (2) facilitate topographical fitting (spatial actuation) through garment architectural design, and (3) provide tunable NiTi-based SMA actuation temperatures to enable actuation on the surface of human skin. Such fabrics and garments are usable in a variety of fields including medical compression, technical sportswear, exosuits, space suits and components thereof, or non-garment applications.

Abstract: A device of a shape memory material configured to implement a predetermined level of expansion while allowing contraction and twist can be implemented in a portion of a vascular system, such as in the left ventricle of the heart of a patient suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Abstract: Garments having active and passive knitted rows can provide desired levels of compression. Garments made of active and passive knitted rows can provide dynamic levels of compression with respect to both location and over time to address a variety of conditions.

Abstract: Garments having active and passive knitted rows can provide desired levels of compression. Garments made of active and passive knitted rows can provide dynamic levels of compression with respect to both location and over time to address a variety of conditions.

Abstract: Anchoring of fabrics for applications in which force is applied by or on the fabric facilitates new uses and functionalities. Dynamic anchoring through any of three modes (mechanical, compressive, or friction-based) enables transient or permanent anchoring across a garment or other fabric.

Abstract: Active fabrics can be created by combining active and passive materials. Active materials with shape memory or other actuation characteristics can generate compression or dynamic fit, and the level of compression and/or change in fit can be determined by setting a knit index, wire diameter, and garment ease, or fit in relation to the body. Maximum compression can be set not only by varying physical properties of the knit structure but by built-in circuit breaking technologies, or by segmentation and control of the garment by a controller. In some embodiments, additive manufacturing can be combined with traditional textile equipment (e.g., circular knitting machine). Uniquely functional or active textiles can be made from additively manufactured, heterogeneous filaments. Yarn-like filament with varying properties (such as elasticity, stiffness, conductivity, activation, or surface properties) can be additively manufactured.

Abstract: Garments having active and passive knitted rows can provide desired levels of compression. Garments made of active and passive knitted rows can provide dynamic levels of compression with respect to both location and over time to address a variety of conditions.

Abstract: A device of a shape memory material configured to implement a predetermined level of expansion while allowing contraction and twist can be implemented in a portion of a vascular system, such as in the left ventricle of the heart of a patient suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.