Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a textile product and a method of manufacturing
thereof, and specifically relates to a textile product having an electric/electronic
function and a method of manufacturing thereof.
Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, various sensors such as a vibration sensor, a temperature sensor,
and a pressure sensor have been attached to industrial equipment for the purpose of
detecting abnormality of the industrial equipment. In order to achieve the above purpose,
for example, a packaged rectangular sensor (for example, Patent Literature 1) is used
for industrial equipment serving as a measurement target (hereinafter, referred to
as "target product").
[0003] However, the packaged rectangular sensor can be disposed in a case where the target
product has a flat portion, but, in a case where the target product has a complicated
shape such as a curved surface, the sensor cannot be easily attached to the target
product. Thus, it is problematic in that measurement is difficult.
Citation List
Summary of Invention
Technical Problem
[0005] In a case where the sensor can also be attached to a target product having a complicated
shape, it is possible to easily measure vibration, temperature, pressure, and the
like, regardless of a shape of the target product. It is also possible to give an
electric/electronic function including not only a sensor function but also a control
function such as temperature control and a communication function.
[0006] The inventors of the present invention have focused on a stretchable textile product
and have intended to provide a textile product and a method of manufacturing thereof,
the textile product being applicable also to a target product having a complicated
shape because an electric/electronic function is given to the textile product.
Solution to Problem
[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a textile product according to a
first aspect of the present invention is a textile product manufactured by using a
knitted or woven fabric, in which: the knitted or woven fabric comprises a knitted
or woven filamentous electronic-function member in at least part of the knitted or
woven fabric; the electronic-function member comprises a core portion including at
least two metal wires, an insulating layer that covers the at least two metal wires
so as to expose part of the at least two metal wires, and an electronic-function portion
electrically conducted to each of the at least two metal wires and a sheath portion
including a knitted fabric that covers the core portion; and a yarn containing thermoplastic
resin is included in at least part of the knitted fabric of the electronic-function
member, and/or the yarn containing thermoplastic resin is interwoven with the electronic-function
member.
[0008] According to the above-mentioned first aspect, the thermoplastic resin existing in
the vicinity of the electronic-function member can be melted and solidified by heating
a region including the electronic-function member. With this configuration, it is
possible to form the region including the electronic-function member in accordance
with a shape of the target product. This makes it possible to easily attach the electronic-function
member also to a target product having a complicated shape.
[0009] Further, a textile product according to a second aspect of the present invention
is a textile product manufactured by using a knitted or woven fabric, in which: the
knitted or woven fabric comprises a knitted or woven filamentous electronic-function
member in at least part of the knitted or woven fabric;
the electronic-function member includes a core portion including at least two metal
wires, an insulating layer that covers the at least two metal wires so as to expose
part of the at least two metal wires, and an electronic-function portion electrically
conducted to each of the at least two metal wires and a sheath portion including a
knitted fabric that covers the core portion; and at least part of the knitted fabric
of the electronic-function member and/or at least part around the electronic-function
member contains solidified thermoplastic resin.
[0010] According to the above-mentioned second aspect, it is possible to form the region
including the electronic-function member in accordance with the shape of the target
product. This makes it possible to easily attach the electronic-function member also
to a target product having a complicated shape.
[0011] Further, in the textile product according to a third aspect of the present invention,
the core is sealed from outside in a region in which the core portion is covered by
the knitted fabric.
[0012] According to the above-mentioned third aspect, it is possible to improve water resistance
of the sheath portion of the electronic-function member.
[0013] Further, in the textile product according to a fourth aspect of the present invention,
the sheath portion includes a first covering portion that is made from the knitted
fabric and is provided on a side of the core portion and a second covering portion
that covers at least part of the first covering portion and presses the first covering
portion to the core portion.
[0014] According to the above-mentioned fourth aspect, it is possible to further bring the
first covering portion of the electronic-function member into tight contact with the
core portion.
[0015] Further, in the textile product according to a fifth aspect of the present invention,
the second covering portion is a long member helically wound around the first covering
portion.
[0016] According to the above-mentioned fifth aspect, in the electronic-function member,
it is possible to bring the first covering portion into tight contact with the core
portion, without damaging the core portion.
[0017] Further, in the textile product according to a sixth aspect of the present invention,
the electronic-function portion is selected from the group consisting of a chip component,
an electronic-function-substance containing film, a battery, an input element, a display
element, a sensor, an antenna, a composite element thereof, and an integrated circuit
thereof.
[0018] According to the above-mentioned sixth aspect, it is possible to further reduce size
and thickness of the electronic-function member to be mounted. This makes it possible
to further thin the electronic-function member.
[0019] Further, in the textile product according to a seventh aspect of the present invention,
the core portion includes a plurality of the electronic-function portions, and the
plurality of electronic-function portions form a circuit by being connected to each
other with the at least two metal wires.
[0020] According to the above-mentioned seventh aspect, it is possible to further reduce
the size of the electronic-function member by using a circuit, instead of a component
such as a chip.
[0021] Further, in the textile product according to an eighth aspect of the present invention,
the circuit includes sensor portions as the electronic-function portions.
[0022] According to the above-mentioned eighth aspect, it is possible to use the electronic-function
member as measuring tools.
[0023] Further, in the textile product according to a ninth aspect of the present invention,
the circuit further includes, as the electronic-function portions, a control portion
that controls operation of the sensor portions, a communication portion that outputs
information from the sensor portions to outside, and a power supply portion that supplies
power to the sensor portions, the control portion, and the communication portion.
[0024] According to the above-mentioned ninth aspect, it is possible to further reduce the
size of the electronic-function member serving as measuring tools.
[0025] Further, an invention according to a tenth aspect of the present invention provides
a method of manufacturing the textile product according to the first aspect, the method
comprising a step of manufacturing a knitted or woven fabric at least part of which
is interwoven with an electric-function member, the step comprising interweaving the
electric-function member including the thermoplastic resin filament in at least part
of the knitted fabric and/or interweaving the electronic-function member and the thermoplastic
resin filament in at least part of a region of the knitted or woven fabric.
[0026] According to the above-mentioned tenth aspect, it is possible to provide a textile
product having an electric/electronic function, the textile product being a product
in which a region including the electronic-function member is formable in accordance
with the shape of the target product.
[0027] Further, an invention according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention provides
a method of manufacturing the textile product according to the fourth aspect, the
method comprising: a step of manufacturing a knitted or woven fabric at least part
of which is interwoven with the electric-function member, the step including interweaving
the electric-function member including the thermoplastic resin filament in at least
part of the knitted fabric and/or interweaving the electronic-function member and
the thermoplastic resin filament in at least part of a region of the knitted or woven
fabric; and a step of melting and solidifying the thermoplastic resin filament interwoven
into the knitted or woven fabric.
[0028] According to the above-mentioned eleventh aspect, by melting and solidifying the
thermoplastic resin existing inside or in the vicinity of the electronic-function
member, it is possible to form the region including the electronic-function member
in accordance with the shape of the target product. This makes it possible to provide
a textile product having an electric/electronic function and being applicable also
to a target product having a complicated shape.
Advantageous Effect of Invention
[0029] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a textile product having
an electric/electronic function and being applicable also to a target product having
a complicated shape.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0030]
Fig. 1 is a partial cutaway plan view showing an example of a structure of an electronic-function
member for use in a textile product according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 1.
Fig. 3 is a developed diagram showing an example of a structure of knitted fabric
for use in the electronic-function member shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 4A is a schematic plan view showing an example of a structure of knitted goods
for use in the textile product according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. 4B is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 4A.
Fig. 5A is a schematic plan view showing another example of the structure of the knitted
goods for use in the textile product according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. 5B is a schematic vertical-sectional view of an electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 5A.
Fig. 6A is a schematic plan view showing another example of the structure of the knitted
goods for use in the textile product according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. 6B is a schematic vertical-sectional view of an electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 6A.
Fig. 7 is a partial cutaway plan view showing an example of a structure of an electronic-function
member for use in a textile product according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
Fig. 8 is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 7.
Fig. 9 is a partial cutaway plan view showing an example of a structure of an electronic-function
member for use in a textile product according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.
Fig. 10 is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 9.
Fig. 11 is a partial cutaway plan view showing an example of a structure of an electronic-function
member for use in a textile product according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.
Fig. 12 is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the electronic-function member shown
in Fig. 11.
Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a structure of an electronic-function
member for use in a textile product of the present invention.
Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal circuit of the electronic-function
member for use in the textile product according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.
Description of Embodiment
[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with
reference to the drawings as appropriate.
Embodiment 1
[0032] A textile product according to this embodiment is a textile product manufactured
by using a knitted or woven fabric, in which: the knitted or woven fabric comprises
a knitted or woven filamentous electronic-function member in at least part of the
knitted or woven fabric; the electronic-function member comprises a core portion including
at least two metal wires, an insulating layer that covers the at least two metal wires
so as to expose part of the at least two metal wires, and an electronic-function portion
electrically conducted to each of the at least two metal wires, and a sheath portion
including a knitted fabric that covers the core portion; and a yarn containing thermoplastic
resin is included in at least part of the knitted fabric of the electronic-function
member, and/or the yarn containing thermoplastic resin is interwoven with the electronic-function
member.
[0033] The present invention provides the textile product manufactured by using a knitted
or woven fabric that is obtained by weaving or knitting yarns of natural fibers, semisynthetic
fibers, or synthetic fibers. A shape, dimensions, thickness, and the like thereof
are not particularly limited.
(Electronic-function member)
[0034] Fig. 1 is a partial cutaway plan view of an electronic-function member for use in
this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a vertical-sectional view taken along line II-II' of Fig.
1. An electronic-function member 1 includes a core portion 5 and a sheath portion
20 covering the core portion 5. The core portion 5 includes a first insulation-covered
metal wire 10 and a second insulation-covered metal wire 11 extending in a longitudinal
direction thereof and an electronic-function portion 12 electrically conducted to
each of the first and second insulation-covered metal wires 10 and 11. Knitted fabric
21 is used as the sheath portion 20. Further, a chip component is used as the electronic-function
portion 12.
[0035] As shown in Fig. 2, the first insulation-covered metal wire 10 includes a metal wire
10a covered by an insulating layer 10b, and the second insulation-covered metal wire
11 includes a metal wire 11a covered by an insulating layer 11b. Part of the insulating
layer 10b is removed, and a joining portion 16 is formed to be in contact with the
exposed metal wire 10a. Further, part of the insulating layer 11b is removed, and
a joining portion 17 is formed to be in contact with the exposed metal wire 11a. The
electronic-function portion 12 has a rectangular shape and includes a pair of external
electrodes 12a and 12b serving as electronic-function portions at both end portions.
By connecting the external electrode 12a to the joining portion 16 and connecting
the external electrode 12b to the joining portion 17, the electronic-function portion
12 is electrically connected to the metal wire 10a and the metal wire 11a. The electronic-function
portion 12 and the metal wires 10a and 11a, which are electrically connected to each
other as described above, are covered by the knitted fabric 21. Note that the joining
portions 16 and 17 may be formed as a structure different from joining material by
plating or the like. However, in a case where the insulating layers 10b and 11b are
thin, joining material such as solder or a conductive adhesive can form the joining
portions 16 and 17. Further, in a region in which the core portion 5 is covered by
the knitted fabric 21, the core portion 5 is sealed from the outside.
[0036] Copper wires and nickel wires can be used as the metal wires forming the core portion.
Copper wires are preferable. A diameter of each metal wire is not particularly limited,
as long as the metal wire can be formed into knitted fabric. However, the diameter
is 1 µm or more and 1 mm or less, and is preferably 1 µm or more and 0.5 mm or less.
Further, the insulating layer prevents the metal wires from being brought into direct
contact with each other, and polyurethane resin, acrylic resin, or a long insulating
sheet or tape can be used. In this embodiment, the insulating layer exposes part of
each metal wire in order to secure electrical conduction with the electronic-function
portion. Herein, the part of the metal wire merely means "not the whole surface of
the metal wire", and an area of the part is not particularly limited.
[0037] Further, the electronic-function portion has a function of an active element such
as a transistor, a diode, or a Peltier element and a function of a passive element
such as a resistor, a capacitor, an inductor, or a thermistor and can be selected
from the group consisting of a chip component, an electronic-function-substance containing
film, a battery, an input element, a display element, a sensor, an antenna, a composite
element thereof, and an integrated circuit thereof.
[0038] The passive element may be a chip component or may be an electronic-function-substance
containing film, such as a thick film resistor, a thin film resistor, a thin film
capacitor, or a thin film inductor. Further, the passive element may be organic material,
composite material, or paste material containing an electronic-function substance.
The electronic-function-substance containing film can be formed by applying a solution
containing element material, for example, dielectric material to surfaces of the plurality
of metal wires by using a publicly-known thick-film printing method such as spin coating
or screen printing and performing heat processing. Further, it is also possible to
use an electronic-function-substance containing film patterned by a thin film process.
In that case, for example, it is possible to use a lift-off method, vapor deposition,
spattering, or the like. In the lift-off method, after a resist is applied to the
surfaces of the plurality of metal wires, the resist is patterned by lithography,
then a solution containing element material is applied, and the resist is removed
thereafter. This makes it possible to leave an intended thin film pattern. Specific
examples of the electronic-function portion encompass an NTC thermistor, a PTC thermistor,
and a Peltier element. In a case where those elements are used for clothing including
the electronic-function member, for example, the NTC thermistor is used, it is possible
to measure temperature of the clothing. Further, in a case where the PTC thermistor
is used, it is possible to warm the clothing. Furthermore, in a case where the Peltier
element is used, it is possible to cool the clothing.
[0039] Further, the electronic-function portion includes a plurality of terminal portions
that exchange signals with an external device. Specific examples of the terminal portions
encompass an external electrode, a terminal, and an electrode pad. For example, in
a case where two terminal portions are two terminals, one terminal can be connected
to one metal wire, and the other terminal can be connected to the other metal wire.
[0040] The sheath portion includes knitted fabric covering the core portion and can be formed
as one or more covering portions laminated on a periphery of the core portion. Although
knitted fabric can be used as any covering portion, it is preferable to use knitted
fabric as a first covering portion that is provided on a side of the core portion
and at least part of which is in contact with the core portion. In this embodiment,
there will be described an example where the sheath portion includes only the first
covering portion made from knitted fabric.
[0041] Fig. 3 shows a developed diagram of the knitted fabric 21. The knitted fabric 21
can be formed as tubular knitted fabric covering a periphery of the core portion 5
by weft knitting using a knitting yarn. Weft knitting is preferable because stitches
thereof are finer than those of warp knitting. Further, in weft knitting, stitches
are formed by wrapping the knitting yarn around the vertical core portion, and thus
the core portion can be fastened comparatively strongly by the knitting yarn of the
sheath portion. This makes it possible to bring the sheath portion into tight contact
with the core portion.
[0042] In this embodiment, a yarn containing thermoplastic resin is included in at least
part of the knitted fabric of the electronic-function member, and/or a yarn containing
thermoplastic resin is woven with the electronic-function member. By heating a region
including the electronic-function member, it is possible to melt and solidify the
thermoplastic resin existing in the vicinity of the electronic-function member. With
this configuration, it is possible to form the region including the electronic-function
member in accordance with a shape of the target product. This makes it possible to
easily attach the electronic-function member also to a target product having a complicated
shape.
[0043] In a case of an electronic-function member in which the yarn containing thermoplastic
resin (hereinafter, also referred to as "thermoplastic filament yarn") is included
in the at least part of the knitted fabric of the electronic-function member, for
example, the knitted fabric can be manufactured by using the thermoplastic filament
yarn as a knitting yarn of at least part of the knitted fabric. Examples of thermoplastic
resin encompass polyurethane resin, polyethylene resin, polyester resin, polyamide
resin, and polypropylene resin. It is preferable to use a thermoplastic synthetic
filament yarn made from thermoplastic resin such as polyethylene resin, polyester
resin, polyamide resin, and polypropylene resin. Further, the thickness of the knitting
yarn is preferably 33 dtex or more and 250 dtex or less. In a case where the thickness
is less than 33 dtex, the core portion is not sufficiently covered by the knitted
fabric. Meanwhile, in a case where the thickness is more than 250 dtex, it is difficult
to knit the knitted fabric by using a knitting machine because the knitting yarn is
too thick. It is also possible to use a plurality of thermoplastic filament yarns
made from thermoplastic resins having different melting points or a composite filament
yarn including a thermoplastic filament yarn, a non-thermoplastic yarn, and other
yarns.
[0044] Also in a case where the thermoplastic filament yarn is woven with the electronic-function
member, it is possible to weave or knit the knitted fabric by using the similar thermoplastic
filament yarn.
[0045] Further, the number of stitches in a single course of the knitted fabric is not particularly
limited, but is preferably two or more and eight or less. A diameter of the tubular
knitted fabric can be reduced, and thus it is possible to further improve the tight
contact of the knitted fabric to the core portion.
[0046] Further, the number of stitches per natural length of 1 cm in a single wale of the
knitted fabric is not particularly limited, but is preferably six or more and fourteen
or less. Herein, the term "natural length" means length of the knitted fabric to which
no tension or the like is given, i.e., length of the knitted fabric that is naturally
placed on a table as it is. In a case where the number of stitches per natural length
of 1 cm in a single wale of the knitted fabric is six or more, it is possible to improve
coverage of the core portion with the knitted fabric. Further, in a case where the
number of stitches per natural length of 1 cm in a single wale of the knitted fabric
is fourteen or less, it is possible to restrain a defect from occurring, the defect
being caused by a tuck defect of stitches of the knitted fabric because the stitches
are too fine.
[0047] In a case where the thermoplastic filament yarn is used as a knitting yarn of the
knitted fabric, the thermoplastic filament yarn existing in the vicinity of the electronic-function
member is melted and solidified as described above. This makes it possible not only
to form a region including the electronic-function member in accordance with the shape
of the target product but also to obtain the following effects. Specifically, heating
and melting the thermoplastic filament yarn included in the knitted fabric improves
the coverage of the core portion with the cooled and solidified knitted fabric and
the tight contact of the cooled and solidified knitted fabric to the core portion.
This makes it possible to protect the electronic-function member and the metal wires
from moisture at the time of washing or sweating. Further, by heating the thermoplastic
filament yarn while applying pressure thereto, it is possible to further improve the
tight contact between the core portion and the sheath portion. In a case where a composite
filament including a plurality of thermoplastic filament yarns having different melting
points is used as a knitting yarn, the composite filament is heated at temperature
that is higher than a melting point of a thermoplastic filament yarn having a low
melting point but is lower than a melting point of a thermoplastic filament yarn having
a high melting point. Thus, the thermoplastic filament yarn having the high melting
point maintains a state of the knitted fabric, and only the thermoplastic filament
yarn having the low melting point is melted. This makes it possible to improve durability.
[0048] Further, the electronic-function member can be manufactured by using, for example,
the following method. Specifically, the method includes: a step of forming a core
portion including at least two metal wires, an insulating layer that covers the at
least two metal wires so as to expose part of the at least two metal wires, and an
electronic-function portion electrically conducted to each of the at least two metal
wires; and a step of forming a sheath portion that covers the core portion, in which
the step of forming the sheath portion includes at least a step of knitting knitted
fabric around the core portion by weft knitting and covering the core portion.
[0049] The step of forming the core portion can further include: a step of forming a conductive
pattern on a plurality of metal wires; and a step of mounting at least one electronic-function
portion on the plurality of metal wires. In a case where, for example, two metal wires
are used, as shown in Fig. 2, part of the insulating layer on a surface of each metal
wire is removed to expose a surface of the metal wire, and a joining portion to which
a conductive pattern is given is formed. The number of conductive patterns can be
selected in accordance with the number of input/output terminals of the electronic-function
portion or the number of electronic-function portions. Further, the conductive pattern
can have various shapes such as a line, a rectangle, a circle, and a dot. In a case
where the electronic-function portion is mounted on a plurality of metal wires, it
is preferable, in view of stretchiness and durability, that the electronic-function
portion be mounted on the plurality of metal wires parallel to each other in a direction
perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the plurality of metal wires. Further,
in a case where a plurality of electronic-function portions are mounted in the longitudinal
direction of the metal wires, it is possible to form a plurality of conductive patterns
at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the metal wires. The conductive
patterns can be formed by a printing method using a conductive paste or an electroplating
method.
[0050] In the step of covering the core portion, tubular knitted fabric covering the periphery
of the core portion can be formed by weft knitting using a knitting yarn by using
a circular knitting machine. The circular knitting machine can be a publicly-known
circular knitting machine as disclosed in, for example,
JP S60-193993 U.
(Method of manufacturing a knitted or woven fabric)
[0051] A knitted or woven fabric for use in this embodiment can be manufactured by supplying
the electronic-function member to a weaving machine and manufacturing a woven fabric
or supplying the electronic-function member to a knitting machine and manufacturing
knitted goods. Specifically, a method of manufacturing a knitted or woven fabric for
use in this embodiment comprises a step of manufacturing a knitted or woven fabric
at least part of which is interwoven with the electronic-function member, and the
step comprises interweaving the electronic-function member including the yarn containing
thermoplastic resin in at least part of the knitted fabric and/or interweaving the
electronic-function member and the yarn containing thermoplastic resin in at least
part of a region of the knitted or woven fabric.
[0052] Hereinafter, a case of a knitted fabric will be described. An electronic-function
member including a yarn containing thermoplastic resin (thermoplastic filament yarn)
as a knitting yarn of knitted fabric is supplied alone to a knitting machine (knitting
method 1). Alternatively, an electronic-function member including no thermoplastic
filament yarn as a knitting yarn of knitted fabric and one or more natural filament
yarns, semisynthetic filament yarns, synthetic filament yarns, or the like including
at least a thermoplastic filament yarn are combined and are supplied to a knitting
machine (knitting method 2). Alternatively, an electronic-function member including
a thermoplastic filament yarn as a knitting yarn of knitted fabric and one or more
natural filament yarns, semisynthetic filament yarns, and synthetic filament yarns
including at least a thermoplastic filament yarn are combined and are supplied to
a knitting machine (knitting method 3). A method of combining the electronic-function
member and a normal synthetic filament yarn is, for example, supplying the electronic-function
member and the normal synthetic filament yarn from different yarn paths of face yarns
and forming knitted fabric or supplying the electronic-function member and the normal
synthetic filament yarn from the same yarn path of a face yarn, arranging the electronic-function
member and the normal synthetic filament yarn in parallel, and forming knitted fabric.
The knitted fabric can be formed by flat knitting, rib knitting, interlock knitting,
pearl knitting, pile knitting, or the like. Further, the electronic-function member
and the normal synthetic filament yarn can be supplied from a yarn guide of a face
yarn and a yarn path of a back yarn, respectively, and can be subjected to plating
knitting. Further, in view of an economical point, the electronic-function member
can be interwoven only into a specific necessary part by intarsia knitting (interlock
knitting).
[0053] The knitting method 1 is a method of supplying the electronic-function member including
a thermoplastic filament yarn as a knitting yarn of knitted fabric alone to a knitting
machine. However, a plating yarn and/or a back yarn can also be used as necessary.
In that case, a natural filament yarn, a semisynthetic filament yarn, or a synthetic
filament yarn including no thermoplastic filament yarn can be used as the plating
yarn and the back yarn. With this configuration, at the time of heat processing, it
is possible to prevent a melted thermoplastic filament yarn from falling.
[0054] Next, the knitting method 2 will be described. In the knitting method 2, a plating
yarn and/or a back yarn are/is used. Fig. 4A is a schematic plan view showing an example
of a structure of knitted goods, and Fig. 4B is a schematic vertical-sectional view
of the woven fabric. Knitted goods 70A is knitted by using an electronic-function
member 71, a back yarn 72, and a plating yarn 73. The kind of yarn for use in knitted
fabric forming a sheath portion of the electronic-function member 71 is not particularly
limited and can be, for example, a natural filament yarn, a semisynthetic filament
yarn, or a synthetic filament yarn including no thermoplastic filament yarn. Further,
a natural filament yarn, a semisynthetic filament yarn, or a synthetic filament yarn
including at least a thermoplastic filament yarn is used as the plating yarn and the
back yarn. In a case where one of the plating yarn and the back yarn includes a thermoplastic
filament yarn, the other yarn can be omitted, or a non-melted filament yarn, for example,
a regenerated filament yarn such as rayon or a thermoplastic filament yarn that is
not melted at temperature at which the one of the yarns is melted can be used as described
below. Further, both the plating yarn and the back yarn may include a thermoplastic
filament yarn.
[0055] In Figs. 4A and 4B, a thermoplastic filament yarn is used as the plating yarn 73.
The back yarn 72 has a function of, at the time of heat processing of the knitted
goods, preventing the melted plating yarn 73 from falling and holding the melted plating
yarn 73. The plating yarn 73 is melted and solidified by the heat processing, and
thus rigidity is increased. By performing the heat processing with respect to a region
including the electronic-function member in the knitted goods in accordance with a
predetermined mold so that the region matches with the shape of the target product,
it is possible to melt and solidify the region and form the region in a predetermined
shape.
[0056] Figs. 4A and 4B show an example where the plating yarn 73 is interwoven into the
whole surface of the knitted goods 70A. However, the plating yarn 73 may be interwoven
only in a predetermined region. Further, Figs. 4A and 4B show an example where a thermoplastic
filament yarn is used only as the plating yarn 73. However, a thermoplastic filament
yarn melted at a melting point of the plating yarn 73 or less may also be used as
the back yarn 72. It is possible to form a plane resin region covering a periphery
of the electronic-function member.
[0057] Fig. 5A is a schematic plan view showing another example of the structure of the
knitted goods, and Fig. 5B is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the knitted goods.
Knitted goods 70B is knitted, by moss stitch, by using a face yarn 74, the back yarn
72, and the plating yarn 73 including a thermoplastic filament yarn. An electronic-function
member is used as the face yarn 74. By knitting the knitted goods 70B by seed stitch,
it is possible to interweave the plating yarn 73 in a pattern. For example, in the
knitted goods 70B, a region in which the electronic-function portion is to be disposed
is formed by interweaving the plating yarn 73 and the back yarn 72, and the other
parts are formed by interweaving the face yarn 74 and the back yarn 72. Further, the
face yarn 74 and the plating yarn 73 seem to be cut at an end portion 74a and an end
portion 73a. However, in an actual knit structure, the face yarn and the plating yarn
are provided crosswise by a technique of floating the face yarn and the plating yarn
on a reverse side of the knitted fabric, which is also referred to as "float stitch".
In other words, a part in which the face yarn 74 is woven and the plating yarn 73
is caused to pass on the reverse side and a part in which the plating yarn 73 is woven
and the face yarn 74 is caused to pass on the reverse side are disposed in a moss-stitch
shape.
[0058] Further, as shown in Fig. 5B, in a case where the knitted goods 70B is formed by
moss stitch, the plating yarn 73 is formed in a mesh shape, and the knitted fabric
and the plating yarn are subjected to heat processing, it is possible to further restrain
the region including the electronic-function portion from being easily folded or broken.
Further, by using the transparent plating yarn 73 containing no matting material and
not using the back yarn 72 or using a transparent thermoplastic filament yarn containing
no matting material also as the back yarn 72, it is possible to cause the region including
the electronic-function portion to be transparent.
[0059] Fig. 6A is a schematic plan view showing another example of the structure of the
knitted goods, and Fig. 6B is a schematic vertical-sectional view of the woven fabric.
Knitted goods 70C is knitted, by cut-boss stitch, by using the face yarn 74, the back
yarn 72, and the plating yarn 73 including a thermoplastic filament yarn. An electronic-function
member is used as the face yarn 74. By knitting the knitted goods 70C by cut-boss
stitch, it is possible to interweave the plating yarn 73 in a pattern. For example,
in the knitted goods 70C, a region in which the electronic-function portion is to
be disposed is formed by interweaving the plating yarn 73 and the back yarn 72, and
the other parts are formed by interweaving the face yarn 74 and the back yarn 72.
Further, the face yarn 74 and the plating yarn 73 are cut in a part 75 where the face
yarn 74 and the plating yarn 73 overlap. This is different from the case of moss stitch
shown in Fig. 5A.
[0060] Next, the knitting method 3 will be described. In the knitting method 3, an electronic-function
member including a thermoplastic filament yarn as a knitting yarn of knitted fabric,
a plating yarn, and/or a back yarn are used. A natural filament yarn, a semisynthetic
filament yarn, or a synthetic filament yarn including at least a thermoplastic filament
yarn is used as the plating yarn and the back yarn. In a case where one of the plating
yarn and the back yarn includes a thermoplastic filament yarn, the other yarn can
be omitted, or a non-melted filament yarn, for example, a regenerated filament yarn
such as rayon or a thermoplastic filament yarn that is not melted at temperature at
which the one of the yarns is melted can be used as described below. Further, both
the plating yarn and the back yarn may include a thermoplastic filament yarn.
[0061] Further, the knitted or woven fabric can include at least one power supply portion
that is electrically connected to the electronic-function portion. The electronic-function
portion and the power supply portion can be electrically connected by the metal wires
forming the core portion. Thus, it is unnecessary to additionally provide a lead wire
and connect the electronic-function portion and the power supply portion. With this
configuration, it is possible to easily connect the electronic-function portion and
the power supply portion. An external device that can be electrically connected to
the electronic-function portion is not limited to the power supply portion and can
be a signal generator, a transmitting device, a receiving device, a detecting device,
a measuring device, a display device, an input device, or the like.
[0062] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a textile product having
an electric/electronic function and being applicable also to a target product having
a complicated shape. Further, in the electronic-function member to which the electric/electronic
function is given, an external device such as a power supply portion and the electronic-function
portion can be electrically connected by the metal wires forming the core portion.
This makes it possible to easily connect the external device and the electronic-function
portion.
Embodiment 2
[0063] A textile product according to this embodiment is a textile product obtained by melting
and solidifying thermoplastic resin contained in the textile product according to
Embodiment 1. The textile product according to this embodiment is different from the
textile product according to Embodiment 1 in that at least part of knitted fabric
of an electronic-function member and/or at least part around the electronic-function
member contains solidified thermoplastic resin.
[0064] In the textile product according to this embodiment, at least part of the knitted
fabric of the electronic-function member and/or at least part around the electronic-function
member contains solidified thermoplastic resin, and, by melting and solidifying thermoplastic
resin, it is possible to form a region including the electronic-function member in
accordance with the shape of the target product. Further, by fusing the solidified
thermoplastic resin to another knitting yarn, it is possible to integrate the electronic-function
member with a knitted or woven fabric. With this configuration, even in a case where
the knitted or woven fabric is expanded or contracted, the electronic-function member
does not crack or peel off the knitted or woven fabric. Further, it is possible to
improve rigidity of a region in which the electronic-function portion is disposed,
increase strength thereof, and reduce elongation thereof. This makes it possible to
restrain the region from being deformed and improve durability of the electronic-function
portion.
[0065] Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing thereof will be described. A method of manufacturing
the textile product according to this embodiment, the method includes: a step of manufacturing
a knitted or woven fabric at least part of which is interwoven with the electronic-function
member, the step including interweaving the electronic-function member including the
yarn containing thermoplastic resin in at least part of the knitted fabric and/or
interweaving the electronic-function member and the yarn containing thermoplastic
resin in at least part of a region of the knitted or woven fabric; and a step of melting
and solidifying the yarn containing thermoplastic resin interwoven into the knitted
or woven fabric.
[0066] In this method, in a case where the electronic-function member is interwoven with
the yarn containing thermoplastic resin (thermoplastic filament yarn), the thermoplastic
filament yarn may be a thermoplastic filament yarn having a melting point lower than
that of another knitting yarn or a thermoplastic filament yarn having a melting point
equivalent to that of another knitting yarn. In a case where the thermoplastic filament
yarn having the melting point lower than that of another knitting yarn is used, it
is preferable to use a thermoplastic filament yarn having a melting point that is
lower by 30°C or more than a melting point of another knitting yarn and is more preferably
lower by 50°C or more than the melting point.
[0067] Note that heating temperature for melting and solidifying the thermoplastic filament
yarn can be appropriately set in accordance with a melting point of a thermoplastic
filament yarn to be used. However, it is necessary that the heating temperature do
not exceed an upper limit of heat resistant temperature of the electronic-function
portion included in the electronic-function member.
[0068] Regarding a combination of knitting yarns, in the example of Fig. 4A, the knitted
goods is knitted by using a natural filament yarn or a synthetic filament yarn having
a comparatively high melting point (a synthetic filament yarn having a melting point
higher than that of the thermoplastic filament yarn) as the sheath portion of the
electronic-function member and using a fiber having a comparatively high melting point
(a filament yarn having a melting point higher than that of the thermoplastic filament
yarn) such as nylon or polyurethane as the back yarn. After knitting, by heating only
the region in which the electronic-function portion is disposed or the whole surface
of the knitted goods while applying pressure to the region or the whole surface as
necessary, only the thermoplastic filament yarn having the lowest melting point is
melted and solidified.
[0069] Table 1 shows exemplary combinations of thermoplastic filament yarns to be melted
and serving as a knitting/weaving yarn for use in a knitted or woven fabric and other
knitting/weaving yarns. Herein, non-melted fibers in Table 1 are fibers other than
thermoplastic fibers to be melted and indicate fibers for use in the sheath portion
of the electronic-function member or the back yarn, and melted fibers indicate thermoplastic
fibers to be melted.
[Table 1]
Non-melted fibers |
Melted fibers |
Difference in melting point |
Polyester fiber (Melting point: 260°C) |
Nylon 6 fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Polyvinyl chloride fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Vinylon fiber |
Approximately 30 degrees |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 130 degrees |
Low-melting polyester fiber |
Approximately 150 degrees |
Low-melting nylon fiber |
Approximately 150 degrees |
Polyurethane fiber (Melting point: 230°C) |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 80 degrees |
Low-melting polyester fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Nylon 6 fiber (Melting point: 215°C) |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 80 degrees |
Low-melting polyester fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Low-melting nylon fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Cotton (Decomposition point: 235°C) |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 70 degrees |
Low-density polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Hemp (Decomposed at 200°C) |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 40 degrees |
Polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 70 degrees |
Rayon (Decomposition is started at 260°C or more) |
Nylon 6 fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Polyvinyl chloride fiber |
Approximately 50 degrees |
Vinylon fiber |
Approximately 30 degrees |
Polypropylene fiber |
Approximately 100 degrees |
Low-density polyethylene fiber |
Approximately 130 degrees |
Low-melting polyester fiber |
Approximately 150 degrees |
Low-melting nylon fiber |
Approximately 150 degrees |
p-aramid resin (Carbonized at 400°C or more) |
Polyester fiber |
Approximately 140 degrees |
Nylon 6 fiber |
Approximately 190 degrees |
Polyvinyl chloride fiber |
Approximately 190 degrees |
Vinylon fiber |
Approximately 170 degrees |
[0070] Combinations of the melted fibers and the non-melted fibers are not limited to the
range shown in Table 1, and melting points of the non-melted fibers only need to be
higher by 30°C or more than melting points of the melted fibers.
Embodiment 3
[0071] A textile product in this embodiment has a configuration similar to that of a textile
product in Embodiment 1, except that the sheath portion including a first covering
portion that is made from knitted fabric and is in contact with the core portion and
a second covering portion that covers at least part of the first covering portion
and presses the first covering portion to the core portion is used as the electronic-function
member.
[0072] Fig. 7 is a partial cutaway plan view of the electronic-function member according
to this embodiment, and Fig. 8 is a vertical-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII'
in Fig. 7. Hereinafter, a part common to Embodiment 1 will not be described, and only
a different part will be described.
[0073] An electronic-function member 2 includes a core portion 5 and a sheath portion 20
covering the core portion 5. The sheath portion 20 further includes a first covering
portion 22 made from knitted fabric and existing on a side of the core portion 5 and
a second covering portion 23 wound around the first covering portion 22. The second
covering portion 23 presses the first covering portion 22 to the core portion 5, thereby
further bringing the first covering portion 22 into tight contact with the core portion
5.
[0074] The second covering portion can be a long member. The long member can be as follows:
a natural filament yarn made from cotton, hemp, wool, or the like; a semisynthetic
filament yarn made from cellulose or the like; a synthetic filament yarn made from
nylon, acryl, polyester, polyurethane, or the like; or a composite yarn, a tape, a
string, or the like obtained by combining a plurality of fiber materials. By using
the long member, it is possible to bring the first covering portion into tight contact
with the core portion, without damaging the core portion. Further, in a case where
a synthetic filament yarn containing thermoplastic resin is used as the first covering
portion, a synthetic filament yarn containing thermoplastic resin can also be used
as the second covering portion. By covering the first covering portion with the second
covering portion and thereafter heating and melting the synthetic filament yarn, it
is possible to further improve the tight contact of the first covering portion to
the core portion after cooling.
[0075] Further, the following examples can also be used as a combination of the first covering
portion and the second covering portion. For example, in a case where a synthetic
filament yarn containing thermoplastic resin is used as the first covering portion,
it is possible to use a yarn made from the above-mentioned non-melted fiber (hereinafter,
referred to as "non-melted filament yarn") as the second covering portion. Further,
it is possible to use a non-melted filament yarn as the first covering portion and
use a synthetic filament yarn containing thermoplastic resin as the second covering
portion. Also in those cases, it is possible to improve the tight contact of the first
covering portion to the core portion.
[0076] The electronic-function member for use in this embodiment can be manufactured by
using a method including a step of helically winding the long member around the first
covering portion after the first covering portion is formed. By using a publicly-known
sheath yarn winding apparatus disclosed in, for example,
JP S63-282304 A, the second covering portion can be formed by drawing a string wound around a bobbin
while rotating the bobbin and winding the string around the electronic-function member
while moving, in an upward direction or downward direction, the electronic-function
member on which the first covering portion has been formed. Note that winding intervals
of the second covering portion in a longitudinal direction of the electronic-function
member can be adjusted as necessary. By reducing the winding intervals (or increasing
the number of times of winding), it is possible to further improve the tight contact
of the first covering portion to the core portion. Further, it is also possible to
further improve the tight contact of the first covering portion to the core portion
by increasing a diameter of the yarn forming the second covering portion to reduce
the winding intervals.
[0077] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 1, the following
effects can be obtained by providing the second covering portion: it is possible to
further improve the tight contact of the first covering portion to the core portion
and further improve durability of the electronic-function member.
[0078] Note that, although this embodiment shows an example where the second covering portion
is provided, it is also possible to provide another covering portion as necessary.
For example, the second covering portion is helically wound in the longitudinal direction
of the electronic-function member, and, in addition, a third covering portion can
be wound around the second covering portion in an opposite direction of a direction
of the second covering portion so as to cross the second covering portion. By providing
the third covering portion, it is possible to further improve the tight contact of
the first covering portion to the core portion.
[0079] Further, a paralleled yarn including a synthetic filament yarn containing thermoplastic
resin may be provided between the core portion and the first covering portion. Also
in this case, it is also possible to improve the tight contact of the first covering
portion to the core portion. In this case, combinations of the first covering portion
and the second covering portion can be as follows: a case where synthetic filament
yarns containing thermoplastic resin are used as both the first covering portion and
the second covering portion; a case where non-melted filament yarns are used as both
the first covering portion and the second covering portion; and a case where a synthetic
filament yarn containing thermoplastic resin is used as one of the first covering
portion and the second covering portion and a non-melted filament yarn is used as
the other.
Embodiment 4
[0080] A textile product according to this embodiment has a configuration similar to that
of the textile product in Embodiment 1, except that an electronic-function member
including an electronic-function-substance containing film is used as the electronic-function
portion, instead of a chip component.
[0081] Fig. 9 is a partial cutaway plan view of an electronic-function member according
to this embodiment, and Fig. 10 is a vertical-sectional view taken along line X-X'
of Fig. 9. Hereinafter, a part common to Embodiment 1 will not be described, and only
a different part will be described.
[0082] An electronic-function member 3 includes a core portion 6 and a sheath portion 20
covering the core portion 6. The core portion 6 includes a first insulation-covered
metal wire 10, a second insulation-covered metal wire 11, and an electronic-function
portion 13 including an electronic-function-substance containing film and provided
to be electrically conducted to each of the first and second insulation-covered metal
wires 10 and 11.
[0083] As described above, the electronic-function-substance containing film can be formed
by applying a solution containing element material, for example, dielectric material
to surfaces of a plurality of metal wires by using a publicly-known printing method
such as spin coating and performing heat processing. Further, it is also possible
to use a patterned thin film. Herein, the electronic-function substance encompasses
dielectric material, conductive material, magnetic material, piezoelectric material,
semiconductor material, pyroelectric material, and the like.
[0084] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 1, the following
effects can be obtained by using the electronic-function-substance containing film:
size and thickness of the electronic-function portion to be mounted on the metal wires
can be flexibly changed, and thus it is possible to provide a textile product that
can be optimally designed in accordance with use of the electronic-function member.
Embodiment 5
[0085] A textile product according to this embodiment has a configuration similar to that
of the textile product in Embodiment 1, except that a long insulating member is used
as the insulating layer covering the metal wires and an electronic-function member
including an electronic-function-substance containing film formed to cover a periphery
of the plurality of metal wires in a strip shape is used as the electronic-function
portion, instead of a chip component.
[0086] Fig. 11 is a partial cutaway plan view of an electronic-function member according
to this embodiment, and Fig. 12 is a vertical-sectional view taken along line XII-XII'
of Fig. 11. An electronic-function member 4 includes a core portion 7 and a sheath
portion 20 covering the core portion 7. The core portion 7 includes: metal wires 10a
and 11a extending in a longitudinal direction and between which an insulating member
15 is interposed; and an electronic-function-substance containing film 14 formed to
cover a periphery of the metal wires 10a and 11a in a strip shape and provided to
be electrically conductible to the metal wires 10a and 11a. Knitted fabric 21 is used
as the sheath portion 20.
[0087] An insulating member of the electronic-function member for use in this embodiment
can be a long insulating sheet interposed between the metal wires, an insulating tape
attached in the longitudinal direction of the metal wires, an insulating layer formed
in the longitudinal direction of the metal wires, or the like. The insulating layer
can be made from polyurethane resin, acrylic resin, or the like.
[0088] As described above, the electronic-function-substance containing film can be formed
by applying a solution containing element material, for example, dielectric material
to surfaces of a plurality of metal wires by using a publicly-known printing method
such as spin coating and performing heat processing. Further, it is also possible
to use a patterned thin film element.
[0089] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 1, the following
effects can be obtained by using the electronic-function-substance containing film:
size and thickness of the electronic-function portion to be mounted on the metal wires
can be flexibly changed, and thus it is possible to provide a textile product that
can be optimally designed in accordance with use of the electronic-function member.
[0090] Examples of a single electronic-function portion have been described in Embodiments
1 to 5. However, the electronic-function member for use in the textile product of
the present invention can also include a plurality of electronic-function portions.
For example, the electronic-function member may include: a first electronic-function
portion provided to be electrically conductible to each of at least two metal wires
included in the first wiring portion; and a second electronic-function portion different
from the first wiring portion and provided to be electrically conductible to each
of at least two metal wires included in a second wiring portion. Similarly, the electronic-function
member may further include a third wiring portion and a third electronic-function
portion, a fourth wiring portion and a fourth electronic-function portion, a fifth
wiring portion and a fifth electronic-function portion, and the like. The first electronic-function
portion may be different from the other electronic-function portions, or all electronic-function
portions may be the same. For example, a temperature sensor element (for example,
NTC thermistor) is used as the first electronic-function portion, and a heater element
(for example, PTC thermistor) is used as the second electronic-function portion.
[0091] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a structure of the above-mentioned
electronic-function member including the plurality of electronic-function portions,
and the sheath portion is not shown. A core portion 30 includes metal wires 31, 32,
33, 34, 35, and 36, each of which is covered by an insulating layer. The two metal
wires 31 and 32 form a first wiring portion 37, the two metal wires 33 and 34 form
a second wiring portion 38, and the two metal wires 35 and 36 form a third wiring
portion 39. A first electronic-function portion 41 is joined to a joining portion
31a obtained by exposing part of the metal wire 31 and a joining portion 32a obtained
by exposing part of the metal wire 32. Further, a second electronic-function portion
42 is joined to a joining portion 33a obtained by exposing part of the metal wire
33 and a joining portion 34a obtained by exposing part of the metal wire 34. Further,
a third electronic-function portion 43 is joined to a joining portion 35a obtained
by exposing part of the metal wire 35 and a joining portion 36a obtained by exposing
part of the metal wire 36. Although Fig. 13 shows an example where six metal wires
are disposed in parallel, the six metal wires can also be bundled while preventing
the first to third electronic-function portions from being brought into contact with
each other.
[0092] Further, the electronic-function member for use in the textile product of the present
invention may form a circuit by connecting a plurality of electronic-function portions
to each other with at least two metal wires. This form will be described in more detail
in the following Embodiment 6.
Embodiment 6
[0093] In an electronic-function member for use in a textile product according to this embodiment,
a core portion includes a plurality of electronic-function portions, and the plurality
of electronic-function portions forms a circuit by being connected to each other with
at least two metal wires (hereinafter, the circuit will also be referred to as "internal
circuit"). Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the
internal circuit. A circuit 60 includes a plurality of circuit element portions forming
the circuit, and the circuit element portions correspond to the electronic-function
portions. The circuit 60 includes, as the circuit element portions, a passive element
portion 61, an active element portion 62, a control portion 63 that controls operation
of the passive element portion 61 and the active element portion 62, a communication
portion 64 that exchanges a communication signal with the outside, a power supply
portion 65 that supplies power to each portion, an A/D converter portion 66 that A/D-converts
a data signal received from the passive element portion 61 and outputs the converted
data signal to the control portion 63, a D/A converter portion 67 that D/A-converts
a control signal received from the control portion 63 and supplies the converted control
signal to the active element portion 62, a transmitting/receiving antenna portion
68 that performs wireless transmission/reception with respect to the outside, and
a wireless charging portion 69 that receives an electric wave for power from the outside
and outputs power generated from the electric wave for power to the power supply portion
65. Further, the circuit 60 includes, as an external device, a display portion 70
that displays predetermined image information received from the control portion 63.
[0094] The passive element portion 61 can be, for example, a sensor as a passive element.
In that case, the passive element portion will also be referred to as "sensor portion".
The sensor can be a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, a humidity sensor, a sound
sensor, an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, an acceleration sensor,
a position sensor, or the like. Further, the active element portion 62 can be, for
example, a heater element or an oscillating element as an active element. A combination
of the passive element and the active element can be variously selected in accordance
with use of the electronic-function member. For example, it is possible to give a
temperature adjusting function to the electronic-function member by using a temperature
sensor as the passive element and a heater element as the active element. Further,
the power supply portion 65 can be, for example, a capacitor or a secondary battery.
[0095] The plurality of electronic-function portions can be connected to each other by,
for example, disposing the plurality of electronic-function portions in a longitudinal
direction of the two metal wires and electrically conducting the electronic-function
portions to the respective metal wires.
[0096] The electronic-function member for use in this embodiment can also be formed as knitted
goods by using a method similar to the method described in Embodiment 1. That is,
it is possible to manufacture knitted goods by supplying the electronic-function member
including the internal circuit to a knitting machine and using the electronic-function
member as a normal yarn.
[0097] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 1, the following
effect can be obtained by using a circuit, instead of a plurality of components such
as chips: it is possible to provide a textile product including a smaller electronic-function
member.
[0098] Note that, in this embodiment, circuit element portions other than the passive element
portion and the active element portion can also be provided as external devices, instead
of being included in the electronic-function member. In that case, although the external
devices are held by the knitted goods, the circuit element portions other than the
passive element portion and the active element portion and the external devices can
be electrically connected with the metal wires forming the core portion, as described
in Embodiment 1.
[0099] Further, the circuit element portions shown in Fig. 14 are merely an example, and
it is possible to use various circuit element portions in accordance with use.
[0100] Hereinabove, embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, a
person skilled in the art can understand that those embodiments are merely examples
and various modification examples can be made within the scope of the present invention.
For example, Embodiment 3 shows an example where a knitting yarn is helically wound
around the first covering portion as the second covering portion. However, the second
covering portion may be formed by using knitted fabric or may be formed by employing
plating knitting.
Industrial Applicability
[0101] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a textile product having
an electric/electronic function and being applicable also to a target product having
a complicated shape.
Reference Signs List
[0102]
1, 2, 3, 4 electronic-function member
5, 6, 7 core portion
10 first insulation-covered metal wire
11 second insulation-covered metal wire
10a, 11a metal wire
10b, 11b insulating layer
12, 13, 14 electronic-function portion
12a, 12b external electrode
15 insulating member
16, 17 joining portion
20 sheath portion
21 knitted fabric
22 first covering portion
23 second covering portion
30 core portion
31, 32, 33 metal wire
34, 35, 36 metal wire
31a, 32a, 33a joining portion
34a, 35a, 36a joining portion
37 first wiring portion
38 second wiring portion
39 third wiring portion
41 first electronic-function portion
42 second electronic-function portion
43 third electronic-function portion
60 circuit
61 passive element portion
62 active element portion
63 control portion
64 communication portion
65 power supply portion
66 A/D converter portion
67 D/A converter portion
68 transmitting/receiving antenna portion
69 wireless charging portion
70A, 70B, 70C knitted goods
71 electronic-function member
72 back yarn
73 plating yarn
73a end portion of plating yarn
74 face yarn
74a end portion of face yarn
75 part in which face yarn and thermoplastic fiber overlap