Impact of weaving parameters on the performance of yarn-based interconnects in woven e-textiles: A comprehensive review

While electronic textiles (e-textiles) hold significant potential for improving everyday life, scalability remains a key challenge, particularly in optimizing circuit routing for effective signal transfer and reliable connections without compromising textile properties. Interconnects are essential for transmitting electrical power, data, and signals within these structures. Weaving, the most commonly used fabric production method, offers distinct advantages for integrating yarn-based interconnects. Despite various studies on weaving techniques for integrating electronic circuits into textiles, a notable gap exists concerning the impact of weaving parameters on interconnect performance. This review addresses this gap by analyzing how weaving parameters, classified into yarn properties, weave construction, machine parameters, fabric properties, and environmental conditions, affect the functionality of yarn-based interconnects. It was revealed that these parameters significantly influence the electrical conductivity, resistivity, reliability, durability, washability, comfort, and mechanical properties of the interconnects. The findings provide a framework for developing flexible, durable, and esthetically appealing woven e-textiles by enhancing the understanding of how weaving parameters influence interconnect performance.