Anti theft system uses electronic smart fabric

The fabric uses a web of conductive threads connected to a microcontroller that detects warning signals emitted when the fabric is cut and triggers an alarm. This allows the exact location of a break in to be identified to the nearest centimetre and is said to be cheaper than other burglary detection systems. "The fabric could be used to implement an entirely novel, invisible security system for buildings," said IZM project manager Erik Simon. "The electric current flowing through the fabric is so weak that it presents no danger to humans or animals." The researchers say that the process makes use of standard materials and components such as silver coated conductive threads and a simple signal evaluation system. An industry standard textile weaving process is used, so the fabric can be trimmed to any length and customised to provide the desired functionality for surfaces of any size. The conductive lattice and the data processing module that triggers the alarm in the monitoring centre are incorporated in a low temperature process that uses semiconductor joining techniques such as adhesive pressure bonding and non destructive welding.