MIT Develops Smart Fiber Computers for Health Monitoring and Arctic Testing

The innovative fibers, integrated into clothing, can track health, analyze data, and enhance safety in extreme environments.

MIT researchers have created a fiber computer integrated into clothing, capable of monitoring health and physical activity in real-time.
The fiber includes sensors, microcontrollers, memory, Bluetooth, and a battery, enabling independent data processing and wireless communication.
Initial trials showed 70% accuracy in recognizing exercises, which increased to nearly 95% when fibers across multiple limbs communicated with each other.
The U.S. Army and Navy will test these garments during a month-long Arctic expedition to gather data and prevent cold-weather injuries.
The technology, developed over a decade, uses a novel 'maki' design and elastic materials, making the fibers machine-washable and comfortable for everyday use.