Wearable tech on show at Startup Asia 2014

SINGAPORE — An innovative cooling pad that can be applied onto fabrics to maintain temperature, a wearable collar that allows a dog to broadcast messages and the state of its health to owners via social media, and stickers that can adhere to clothing and release an antibacterial agent upon rubbing.

These were some of the 10 early-stage prototypes showcased at the Next-to-the-skin Technology Exhibition, held in conjunction with Startup Asia 2014 today (May 8).

Organised by Exploit Technologies (ETPL) — the technology transfer arm of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) — the exhibit featured design concepts that integrate technology, fashion, smart fabrics and data analytics jointly developed by A*STAR’s research institutes and designers from design agencies.

Other than the 10 prototypes, 20 different outfits that integrate wearable technologies and fashion concepts were also modelled at the Smart Wear Runway Showcase. Under the guidance of Assistant Professor Galina Mihaleva, students from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) worked closely with A*STAR researchers to create these unique pieces.

“Bringing together our scientists, designers, manufacturers and even investors allow us to understand market needs, fine tune or even change our product offerings. Such platforms encourage more people from academia and industry to collaborate with us to prototype viable ideas,” said Mr Philip Lim, Chief Executive Officer of ETPL.