Textronics spacer knitted material tests as a key element of the diagnostic system that monitors above the proper level of seat vibration

Abstract

This research is focused on the construction and examination of a prototype of a spacer knitted material with integrated sensors. The combination of textiles with elements of electronics, computer science, and a knowledge of automation is called textronics. This type of material has been proposed as a component of diagnostic systems to monitor the extension level of vibration in employee seats at selected workstations or in children’s chairs. The purpose of the diagnostic system is to improve personal protective equipment (PPE) and increase employee safety. The spacer knitted material was tested with vibration frequencies in the range of 0–40 Hz to develop metrological properties under reproducible and repeatable conditions. The tested spacer knitted material meets the requirements of sensory properties such as vibration. The tested material is characterized by the following metrological parameters: total uncertainty U = 4.5%, sensitivity S_a = 0.64 [V/s²/m] and excitability threshold of 5 Pa with simultaneous high coefficient of low-frequency vibration damping of effective amplitude transmissibility (SEAT) = 2.3. Spacer knitted materials are modern constructs that enable the creation of new hybrid structures that have other properties, e.g., sensory suppression, in addition to spatial form.