Intel-powered sports bra opens up automatically when things get hot

At architectural sportswear designer Chromat’s Spring/Summer 2016 runway show at MADE Fashion Week, Intel and Chromat showed two responsive garments that transform shape based on the wearer’s body temperature, adrenaline or stress levels. The intelligence behind the movement of the dress and sportswear are powered by the Intel CurieTM Module, a tiny hardware product that provides designers and makers the ability to add functions and capabilities to a wide range of wearable products such as rings, handbags, clothing and fitness trackers.

With the Intel Curie Module, the garments can change shape and adapt to the wearer’s environment. By using sensors and an innovative shape memory alloy, the responsive garments reflect a concept known as biomimicry, where nature is used to solve complex human problems.

The Chromat Adrenaline Dress powered by Intel is composed of 3-D printed panels and an interlinked, expandable carbon fiber framework. When the wearer senses adrenaline, the dress’s framework expands a carbon fiber framework into a stylized hourglass shape.

Chromat also showcased futuristic sportswear built with Intel technology: the Chromat Aeros Sports Bra powered by Intel, inspired by wind, air and flight. The Chromat Aeros Sports Bra leverages shape memory alloy to open vents when it senses heat and sweat in order to cool down the body. With integration of the Intel Curie module, the sports bra can respond to changes in perspiration, respiration and body temperature to open or close vents in order to cool (or warm) the wearer.

The expanding dress is made of 3D printed TPU, neoprene, and carbon fiber actuated by shape memory alloy. The sports bra is made of Lycra, mesh, neoprene, 3D printed frames with vents actuated by shape memory alloy.

The two garments powered by Intel technology illustrate the potential of future integrations of fashion and technology by bringing innovative concepts and aspirations to life. As we continue our exploration with wearable tech and incorporating technology into clothing, we at Intel look forward to empowering and inspiring the fashion industry by elevating the utility of clothing and accessories with intelligent capabilities.