Research Projects

Funding Project Neurofunctional Suit STS: “SmartTextStim”

BMBF Funding Initiative for Interactive Technologies for Health and Quality of Life as part of the funding priority “KMU-innovativ: Interactive Technologies for Health and Quality of Life” (Call for proposals: April 2024)

Motivation

People whose motor function and balance are impaired—such as those with spastic paralysis—often suffer from reduced mobility and quality of life. Advanced textiles like neurofunctional suits with integrated sensors and electrical stimulation offer new therapeutic approaches for those affected.

Objectives and Approach

The team behind the project Neurofunctional Suit STS: “SmartTextStim” is developing a neurofunctional suit designed to support patients with motor impairments. The suit consists of a textile that, with the help of integrated sensors, detects spastic events such as muscle cramps. It can automatically trigger countermeasures in the form of electrical impulses, which not only alleviate acute cramps but also improve muscle control and help prevent further spasms.

By combining their expertise in textile technology, medical engineering, and computer science, the researchers are creating a user-friendly and practical everyday product. In cooperation with medical partners, they will evaluate and optimize the effectiveness and safety of the suit in several testing phases.

Neurofunctional suit detects and prevents muscle cramps (Source: NOON GmbH 2024).

Innovations and Perspectives

The neurofunctional suit provides a promising basis for new therapeutic approaches and could in the future be adapted for individuals with similar symptoms. It contributes to improved healthcare and promotes social participation among patients.