GB2595494A

GB2595494A - Wearable article and method of making the same

Info

Publication number: GB2595494A
Application number: GB2008009.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rose Hepworth Isabel; Riaz Naeem
Original assignee: Prevayl Innovations Ltd
Current assignee: Prevayl Innovations Ltd
Priority date: 2020-05-28
Filing date: 2020-05-28
Publication date: 2021-12-01
Anticipated expiration: 2040-05-28
Also published as: GB202008009D0; GB2595494B

Abstract

A wearable article 100 comprising a plurality of connection interfaces 211a for coupling with an electronics module, and an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module to the wearable article, the mechanism including a material layer 201 and a magnetic material 161 coupled to the material layer, the magnetic material being provided between a plurality of connection interfaces. Preferably a conductive pathway extends from the connection interfaces, the pathway being arranged to connect the connection interface to an electronic component 200a, 200b. The electronic component may comprise an electrode, and the connection interface may be provided on the material layer. The material layer may form a pocket space 217, with the magnetic material contained within the pocket space. Also claimed is a method of manufacturing such a wearable article.

Description

WEARABLE ARTICLE AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME

The present invention is directed towards a wearable article and method of making the same and, in particular, a wearable article that incorporates a magnetic material.

Background

Wearable articles can be designed to interface with a wearer of the article, and to determine information such as the wearer's heart rate, rate of respiration, activity level, and body positioning. Such properties can be measured with a sensor assembly that includes a sensor for signal transduction and/or microprocessors for analysis. The articles include electrically conductive pathways to allow for signal transmission between an electronics module for processing and communication and sensing components of the article. The wearable articles may be garments. Such garments are commonly referred to as 'smart clothing' and may also be referred to as 'biosensing garments' if they measure biosignals.

It is desirable to overcome at least some of the problems associated with the prior art, whether explicitly discussed herein or otherwise.

Summary

According to the present disclosure there is provided a wearable article and method as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a wearable article comprising an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching an electronics module to the wearable article. The attachment mechanism comprises a material layer and a magnetic material coupled to the material layer.

The wearable article may comprise a connection interface for communicatively coupling with the electronics module when the electronics module is releasably attached to the wearable article.

The magnetic material may be provided proximate to the connection interface.

The wearable article may comprise a plurality of connection interfaces for communicatively coupling with the electronics module.

The magnetic material may be provided between the plurality of connection interfaces.

The plurality of connection interfaces may be arranged proximate to one another.

The wearable article may further comprise a conductive pathway extending from the connection interface. The conductive pathway may be arranged to connect the connection interface to an electronic component. The conductive pathway may comprise one or a combination of conductive wires, transfers, traces and conductive yarn.

The electronic component may comprise an electrode, and optionally wherein the wearable article comprises the electrode.

The connection interface may be provided on the material layer.

The connection interface may be provided on a different layer of the wearable article to the material layer.

The material layer may comprise a recess for receiving an interface element of the electronics module. The magnetic material may be positioned proximate to the recess.

The material layer may be a fabric layer.

The material layer may be a waterproof layer. The waterproof layer may be formed from a waterproof film of material.

The material layer may form a pocket space. The magnetic material may be disposed within the pocket space. This construction means that additional manufacturing steps such as bonding or stitching are not required to attach the magnet to the fabric layer. Instead, a simple pocket which can be manufactured using established garment construction techniques can be formed to hold the magnet in place.

The material layer may be a first material layer of the wearable article. The wearable article may further comprise a second material layer. The second material layer may overlap the first material layer to form a pocket space.

The pocket space may be sized to receive the electronics module.

The pocket space may be a first pocket space. The material layer may form a second pocket space in which the magnetic material is disposed.

The second pocket space may be provided within the first pocket space.

The second material layer may form a further part of the attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module to the wearable article.

The second material layer may comprise a stretch material and may form a pressure membrane arranged to apply pressure to the electronics module when located within the pocket space, the pressure urges the electronics module into attachment with the wearable article.

The pocket space may be accessible from an outside surface of the wearable article.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an assembly comprising an electronics module and a wearable article according to the first aspect of the disclosure.

According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided method of manufacturing a wearable article, the method comprising: providing a material layer; and coupling a magnetic material to the material layer so as to form an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching an electronics module to the wearable article. The wearable article may be the wearable article of the first aspect of the disclosure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a wearable article according to aspects of the present

disclosure;

Figure 2 shows an assembled view of the wearable article of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an exploded view of another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 5 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 6 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 7 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 8 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 9 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 1; Figure 10 shows an exploded view of a wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 11 shows an assembled view of the wearable article of Figure 1; Figure 12 shows an exploded view of another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 10; Figure 13 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 10; Figure 14 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 10; Figure 15 shows an exploded view of yet another wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure that incorporates the features of Figure 10; Figure 16 a flow diagram for an example method of making an article according to aspects

of the present disclosure;

Figure 17 shows an example system according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 18 shows a schematic diagram for an example electronics module according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 19 shows an exploded view of another example electronics module according to

aspects of the present disclosure; and

Figure 20 shows the bottom surface of the electronics module of Figure 20

Detailed Description

The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

It is to be understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

"Wearable article" as referred to throughout the present disclosure may refer to any form of article which may be worn by a user. The wearable article may be a garment. The garment may refer to an item of clothing or apparel. The garment may be a top. The top may be a shirt, t-shirt, blouse, sweater, jacket/coat, or vest. The garment may be a dress, brassiere, shorts, pants, arm or leg sleeve, vest, jacket/coat, glove, armband, underwear, chest band, headband, hat/cap, collar, wristband, stocking, sock, or shoe, athletic clothing, personal protective equipment, swimwear, wetsuit or drysuit.

The garment may be a tight-fitting garment. Beneficially, a tight-fitting garment helps ensure that the sensor devices of the garment are held in contact with or in the proximity of a skin surface of the wearer. The garment may be a compression garment. The garment may be an athletic garment such as an elastomeric athletic garment.

The wearable articles may be constructed from natural fibres, synthetic fibres, or a natural fibre blended with one or more other materials which can be natural or synthetic. The yarn may be cotton. The cotton may be blended with polyester and/or viscose and/or polyamide according to the particular application. Silk may also be used as the natural fibre. Cellulose, wool, hemp and jute are also natural fibres that may be used in the wearable article. Polyester, polycotton, nylon and viscose are synthetic fibres that may be used in the wearable article.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a simplified representation of an example wearable article 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure.

The wearable article 100 comprises a material layer 201. The material layer 201 is a base layer 201 on which a plurality (two in this example) of electronics components 200a, 200b are provided. The electronics components 200a, 200b are sensing components 200a, 200b in this example but the present disclosure is not limited to sensing components.

The sensing component 200a comprises a connection interface 211a, also referred to as a connection terminal 211a. The sensing component 200b comprises a connection interface 211b, also referred to as a connection terminal 211b. The connection interfaces 211a, 221b are provided on the outer facing surface 205 of the sensing components 200a, 200b such that they face away from the wearer when worn. The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are provided proximate to one another.

The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are arranged to form a communicative connection with interface elements 301a, 301b of a removable electronics module 300 when the removable electronics module 300 is positioned in proximity with or in contact with the sensing components 200a, 200b.

A magnetic material 161 is disposed on the base layer 201 in a region between the connection interfaces 2112, 211b. The magnetic material 161 is provided on outer surface 205 of the base layer 201 but may equally be provided on the inner surface 203. The magnetic material 161 is provided within a pocket space 217 of the base layer 201 but may also be stitched, bonded or otherwise attached to the base layer 201. The magnetic material may be encapsulated in a protective plastic film which is stitched or otherwise attached to the material layer 201. The magnetic material 161 may comprise a permanent magnet or a ferromagnet. An example magnetic material useable with the present disclosure is neodymium. That is, the magnetic material 161 may be a magnet such as a neodymium magnet.

The pocket space 217 can be formed in the base layer using techniques readily available to the skilled person. The base layer 201 may be a knitted layer, and the pocket may be integrally knit with the base layer.

The pocket space 217 in the base layer 201 that houses the magnet 161 may be positioned within another, larger, pocket for receiving the electronics module 300.

The magnetic material 161 provides at least part of an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module 300 to the wearable article 100. The electronics module 300 in this example comprises a corresponding magnetic material 361. This means that when the electronics module 300 is positioned in proximity with the base layer 201, the electronics module 300 is magnetically attracted to the base layer 201. This urges the interface elements 301a, 301b of the electronics module 300 into communication with the connection terminals 211a, 211b of the sensing components 200a, 200b.

Advantageously, providing the magnetic material 161 between the connection interfaces 211a, 211b means that the electronics module 300 is urged substantially equally towards both connection interfaces 211a, 211b at the same time. This helps ensure that a robust coupling is formed between the electronics module 300 and both of the connection interfaces 211a, 211b.

The magnetic material 161 facilitates correct positioning of the electronics module 300 on the wearable article 100 and helps maintain the electrical connection when the wearer is moving.

The sensing components 200a, 200b further comprise conductive pathways 213a, 213b that extend from the connection interfaces 211a, 211b. The conductive pathways 213a, 213b connect the connection interfaces 211a, 211b to electrodes 209a, 209b that are provided on an inner surface 203 of the sensing components 200a, 200b. The electrodes 209a, 209b face towards the wearer when worn.

The electrodes 209a, 209b may be arranged to measure one or more biosignals of a user wearing the article 100. Here, "biosignal" may refer to any signal in a living being that can be measured and monitored. The electrodes 2092, 209b is generally for performing bioelectrical or bioimpedance measurements. Bioelectrical measurements include electrocardiograms (ECG), electrogastrograms (EGG), electroencephalograms (EEG), and electromyography (EMG).

Bioimpedance measurements include plethysmography (e.g., for respiration), body composition (e.g., hydration, fat, etc.), and electroimpedance tomography (EIT). The electrodes 209a, 209b may additionally or separately be used to apply an electrical signal to the wearer. This may be used in medical treatment or therapy applications.

Advantageously, when the electronics module 300 is positioned close to or in contact with the base layer 201, the conductive pads 301a, 301b of the electronics module 300 are urged towards the connection terminals 211a, 211b of the sensing components 200a, 200b. In this way, the electronics module 300 is electrically connected to the sensing components 200a, 200b and is able to receive signals from the electrodes 209a, 209b.

The base layer 201 is a non-conductive fabric layer. The base layer 201 may be knitted or woven from non-conductive yarn.

The electrodes 209a, 209b, connection interfaces 211a, 211b and conductive pathways 213a, 213b are, in this example, formed of conductive yarn which is integrally knit or woven with the base component 201 to form a sensing component 200a, 200b of an integral construction. That is the sensing component 200a, 200b is formed from a continuous body of fabric. In this example, Circuitex TM conductive yarn from Noble Biomaterials Limited is used to form the conductive regions. Of course, other conductive yarns may be used. The conductive yarn may comprise a non-conductive or less conductive base yam which is coated or embedded with conductive material such as carbon, copper and silver.

The electrodes 209a, 209b and connection interfaces 211a, 211b are, in this example, raised sections that extend away from the base layer 201 to form three-dimensional regions. Having a raised electrode 209a, 209b is beneficial in improving electrode contact with the skin surface particularly when the wearer is moving. Having a raised connection terminal 211a, 211b is beneficial in terms of improving the electrical connection between the connection terminal 211a, 211b and the electronics module 300.

B

The conductive pathway 213a, 213b may be flush with the base component 201. Having a conductive pathway 213a, 213b which is flush with or minimally extends from a surface 203, 205 of the base component 201 is beneficial in terms of improving comfort and minimising the visual appearance of the sensing component 200a, 200b on the wearable article 100.

Referring to Figure 3, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components. The wearable article 100 in this example is a sleeveless shirt also known as a tank top, singlet or vest.

The front section of the wearable article 100 covers the front of the wearer when worn. A back section (not shown) of the wearable article 100 may also be provided to cover the back of the wearer. The front section may be connected to the back section directly, or a pair of side sections may be provided connecting the front section to the back section.

The front section of the wearable article 100 comprises an inner fabric layer 101, also referred to as first portion 101. The first portion 101 is an upper portion 101 that covers an upper torso region of the front of the wearer when worn. The first portion 101 has a first margin 103 which is an upper margin 103. The upper margin 103 is formed by a superior edge of the first portion 101. The first portion 101 has a second margin 105 which is a lower margin 105. The lower margin 105 is formed by an inferior edge of the first portion 101. The upper margin 103 and the lower margin 105 oppose one another. The first portion 101 further has third and fourth margins 107, 109. The third and fourth margins 107, 109 are side margins 107, 109 formed by opposed side edges of the first portion 101.

The front section 102 of the wearable article 100 comprises an outer fabric layer 111, also referred to as second portion 111. The second portion 111 is a lower portion 111 that covers a lower torso region of the front of the wearer when worn. The second portion 111 has a first margin 113 which is an upper margin 113. The upper margin 113 is formed by a superior edge of the second portion 111. The second portion 111 has a second margin 115 which is a lower margin 115. The lower margin 115 is formed by an inferior edge of the second portion 111. The upper margin 113 and the lower margin 115 oppose one another. The second portion 111 further has third and fourth margins 117, 119. The third and fourth margins 117, 119 are side margins 117, 119 formed by opposed side edges of the second portion 111. In other words, part of the second portion 111 and not the entirety of the second portion 111 overlaps the first portion 101 in the overlapping region 121. Only part of the second portion 111 forms the overlapping region 121.

The first portion 101 is a layer of material and may be formed of one or more textile panels (e.g. fabric panels). The second portion 111 is a layer of material and may be formed of one or more textile panels (e.g. fabric panels). The first portion 101 and the second portion 111 have a similar size in this example.

The second portion 111 overlaps part of the first portion 101 in an overlapping region 121 bounded by the lower margin 105 of the first portion 101 and the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111. In the overlapping region 121, the second portion 111 is further from the wearer of the article 100 and is thus referred to as an outer fabric layer 111. The first portion 101 is closer to the wearer of the article 100 and is thus referred to as inner fabric layer 101. The inner fabric layer 101 is a skin facing layer of the wearable article 100. The inner fabric layer 101, at least in the overlapping region 121, is closer to the skin surface of the wearer than the outer fabric layer 111.

A pocket space 127 is formed between the first portion 101 and the second portion 111 in the overlapping region 121. The pocket space 127 is smaller than the overlapping region 121 and only occupies part of the overlapping region 121. The pocket space 127 has an upper opening with closed side and bottom edges. The upper opening is accessible from the outside surface of the wearable article 100 via the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111. The closed side and bottom edges are formed by a seam 129 that connects the second portion 111 to the first portion 101 in the overlapping region 121. The pocket space 127 is bounded by the seam 129. The seam 129 affixes the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111 to the first portion 101 except for in the region of the pocket space 127. In the region of the pocket space 127, the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111 is unaffixed to the first portion 101. In the region of the pocket space 127, the seam 129 has an approximate U-shape to form the closed side and bottom edges of the pocket space 127.

The first and second portions 101, 111 are not required to be joined to one another at the edges/margins. Other forms of attachment that form an accessible pocket space 127 are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the entirety of the second portion 111 may be bonded to the first portion 101 in the overlapping region 121 except for in the vicinity of the pocket space 127.

The pocket space 127 is located in a central region between the third margins 107, 117 and the fourth margins 109, 119. The pocket space 127 is located in a central area of the wearable article between the upper margin 103 of the first portion 101 and the lower margin 115 of the second portion 111. The pocket space 127 is provided spaced apart from the upper margin of the first portion 101 and the lower margin 115 of the second portion 111. In this example, the pocket space 127 is in an area corresponding to a central torso region of the wearer when worn.

This is particularly beneficial for wearable articles 100 incorporating sensing components as it reduces the required length of conductive pathways extending from electrodes in the wearable article 100 to the pocket space 127. Of course, the pocket space 127 may be provided in a different location if desired.

The overlapping region 121 extends from the third margins 107, 117 to the fourth margins 109, 119 of the first and second portions 101, 111. The seam 129 extends from the third margins 107, 117 to the fourth margins 109, 119 of the first and second portions 101, 111 in the overlapping region 121. The seam 129 may be referred to as a horizontal seam as it extends generally in a horizontal direction.

The seam 129 may be a bonded seam. Bonded seams generally refer to double-sided adhesive tapes that can be used to join two pieces of fabric together. Heat and/or pressure may need to be applied to activate the adhesive. The seam 129 may be formed by stitching the second portion 111 to the first portion 101. Other forms of seam are within the scope of the present disclosure. The particular type of seam chosen will depend on, amongst other factors, the fabric material of the first and second portions 101, 111.

The second portion 111 is attached to the first portion 101 by seams 131, 133. The seams 131, 133 may be referred to as vertical or side seams as they extend in the vertical direction. The seam 131 joins the third margin 107 of the first portion 101 to the third margin 117 of the second portion 111 in the overlapping region 121. The seam 133 joins the fourth margin 109 of the first portion 101 to the fourth margin 119 of the second portion 111 in the overlapping region 121. The seams 131, 133 may be bonded seams. The seam 131, 133 may be formed by stitching the second portion 111 to the first portion 101. Other forms of seam are within the scope of the present disclosure. The particular type of seam chosen will depend on, amongst other factors, the fabric material of the first and second portions 101, 111. Rather than side seams, the seams 131, 133 may be panel seams 131, 133 or any other form of seam.

The overlapping region 121 is a relatively narrow strip that extends from the third margins 107, 117 of the first and second portions 101, 111 to the fourth margins 109, 119 of the first and second portions 101, 111. The amount of overlap and thus the size of the overlapping region may depend on factors such as the size of the desired pocket space 127.

Advantageously, the wearable article 100 provides a pocket space 127 that is accessible from an outside surface of the article 100 but is not easily visually discernible from the outside surface. The pocket space 127 is hidden within the wearable article 100 and is not visually apparent from outside. The only major visual element is horizontal seam line formed as a result of joining the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111 to the first portion 101. The lower margin 105 of the first portion 101 is hidden within the wearable article 100 and not visually apparent from outside the wearable article 100. Having a hidden pocket space 127 not only provides a wearable article 100 that is more visually attractive, the hidden pocket space 127 provides a mechanism for securely storing potentially valuable items on the person. The wearable article 100 reduces the likelihood of theft by minimising the visual appearance of the pocket space 127 from outside the article. Moreover, the wearable article 100 provides a simplified construction for forming the pocket space 127 meaning that the wearable article 100 can be constructed using established manufacturing techniques and using a limited number of components.

The pocket space 127 construction according to the present disclosure can be incorporated into any form of garment. That is, the front panel of any garment may be provided with the split construction of first and second portions 101, 111 that overlap to define the pocket space 127. Moreover, the first and second portions 101, 111 can be attached to one another using any form of seam including bonded and stitched seams and are not limited to any particular type of fabric material.

The sensing components 200a, 200b, provided on the base layer 201 (Figures 1 and 2) are disposed between the second portion 111 and the first portion 101 in the overlapping region 121. The sensing components 200a, 200b are attached to an outer facing surface of the first portion 101 that faces away from the wearer when worn by adhesive layer 145. Equally, the sensing components 200a, 200b may be attached to an inner surface of the first portion 101 that faces towards the wearer. That is, the sensing components 200a, 200b are not required to be disposed within the overlapping region 121.

The wearable article 100 further comprises a waterproof layer 142 that is attached to the sensing components 200a, 200b by adhesive layer 144. The waterproof layer 142 is provided in the pocket space 127 between the sensing components 200a, 200b and the second portion 111. The waterproof layer 142 prevents or otherwise restricts the ingress of water, such as due to sweat, into the pocket space 127 from the body surface when the wearable article 100 is worn.

The waterproof layer 142 comprises recesses 139a, 139b that are aligned with the connection interfaces 211a, 211b. The recesses 139a, 139b are openings that extend through the waterproof layer 142. Corresponding recesses are provided in the adhesive layer 144.

The pocket space 127 is sized to receive an electronics module 300. When the electronics module 300 is positioned in the pocket space 127, the recesses 139a, 139b enable the interface elements 301a, 301b (Figures 1 and 2) of the electronics module 300 to form a communicative connection with the connection terminals 211a, 211b. The communicative connection may be a conductive connection between the interface elements 301a, 301b and the connection terminals 211a, 211b.

The magnetic material 161 is attached to the base layer 201 of the sensing components 200a, 200b. The magnetic material 161 provides at least part of an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module 300 to the wearable article 100. Advantageously, providing the magnetic material 161 between the recesses 139a, 139b and thus between the connection interfaces 211a, 211b means that the electronics module 300 is urged substantially equally towards both connection interfaces 211a, 211b. This helps ensure that a robust coupling is formed between the electronics module 300 and both of the connection interfaces 2112, 211b.

The outer layer 111 also acts as part of the attachment mechanism in cooperation with the magnetic material 161. The outer layer 111 applies pressure to the electronics module 300 to urge the electronics module 300 towards the first layer 101. In particular, the outer layer 111 comprises a stretch material such as an elastomeric material that applies pressure to the electronics module 300. Beneficially, the outer layer 111 helps restrict movement of the electronics module 300 away from the first portion 101. This also helps prevent the conductive pads 301a, 301b from moving out of contact with the connection terminals 211a,211b.

The inner layer 101 covers and insulates the conductive pathways 213a, 213b so as to prevent the conductive pathways 213a, 213b from contacting a skin surface of the wearer. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 comprise openings 143a, 143b, 147a, 147b that are aligned with the electrodes 209a, 209b provided on the inner surface of the strap 150. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 do not cover the electrodes 209a, 209b which enables the electrodes 209a, 209b to come into close proximity with or contact the skin surface.

Referring to Figure 4, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article of Figure 3. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The wearable article 100 further comprises a third portion 149. The third portion 149 is disposed between the first and second portions 101, 111 in the overlapping region 121. The third portion 149 is a narrow strip of material with similar dimensions to the overlapping region 121 such that the third portion 149 is contained within the overlapping region 121 and does not extend outside of the overlapping region. The third portion 149 extends from the third margins 107, 117 of the first and second portions 101, 111 to the fourth margins 109, 119 of the first and second portions 101, 111. The third portion 149 is a middle fabric layer. The third portion 149 is not required to extend for the complete length of the overlapping region. The third portion 149 may be sized to be slightly larger than the pocket space 127.

The third portion 149 is attached to the first portion 101 in the overlapping region 121 by the horizontal seam 129. The second portion 111 is attached to the first portion 101 by the side seams 131, 133.

The pocket space 127 is formed between the first portion 101 and the third portion 149 in the overlapping region 121. The second portion 111 covers the third portion 149 and thus further minimises the appearance of the pocket space 127 from the external surface of the wearable article 100. The second portion 111 may minimise the appearance of the horizontal seam 129 from outside of the wearable article 100. Moreover, by creating the pocket space 127 from panels 101 and 149, they become the weight bearing structures for the electronics module 300 in the overlapping region121 where they are hidden from external view. The visible part of panel 101 and panel 111 are free from impact from the electronics module 300.

The third portion 149 acts as part of the attachment mechanism and applies pressure to the electronics module 300 to urge the electronics module 300 towards the surface 123 of the first portion 101. The third portion 149 may be comprise a stretch material to enable this function. The third portion 149 may perform this function alone or in combination with the second portion 111.

Referring to Figure 5, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article of Figures 3 and 4. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The sensing components 200a, 200b form part of the first portion 101 in this example. The base layer 201 of the sensing components 200a, 200b is attached to a textile panel to form the first portion 101. In some examples, the sensing components 200a, 200b may be integrally formed with the textile panel of the first portion 201. That is, the first portion 101 may be an integral structure comprising the sensing components 200a, 200b. In this example, insulating the conductive pathways 213a, 213b is not required as, for example, the conductive pathways 213a, 213b may be self-insulating.

Referring to Figure 6, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article of Figures 3 to 5. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

Like Figure 5, the sensing components 200a, 200b are not provided as separate articles but instead are provides as a single article. The sensing components 200a, 200b form part of the first portion 101. Like Figure 4, a third portion 149 is provided between the first portion 101 and the second portion 111 in the overlapping region 121.

Referring to Figure 7, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article of the preceding Figures. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The wearable article 100 comprises a strip of material 150 that forms a strap 150 arranged to surround a circumference of the wearer. The strap 150 in this example is chest strap 150 for surrounding the torso of the wearer. The strap 150 may comprise a stretch material.

The sensing components 200a, 200b are provided as part of the strap 150. That is, the strap 150 forms the base layer 201 of the sensing components. The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are provided on an outer facing surface of the strap 150. The outer facing surface faces away from the wearer of the article when worn.

The outer layer 111 is attached to the strap 150 by side seams 131, 133.

The pocket space 127 is formed between the strap 150 and the outer layer 111. The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are provided within the pocket space 127. The pocket space 127 is sized to receive an electronics module 300. The pocket space 127 has an opening formed as a result of the upper margin of the outer layer 111 being unattached to the strap 150. This enables the electronics module 300 to be inserted into and removed from the pocket space 127.

The waterproof layer 142 is attached to the strap 150 by adhesive layer 144. The waterproof layer 142 is further attached to the strap 150 and the outer layer 111 by the side seams 131, 133.

The inner layer 101 is attached to the strap 150 by adhesive layer 145. The inner layer 101 does not cover the conductive pathways 213a, 213b or electrodes 209a, 209b. In this example, insulating of the conductive pathways 213a, 213b is not required as, for example, the conductive pathways 213a, 213b may be self-insulating. The inner layer 101 is the same size as the outer layer 111.

Referring to Figure 8, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article of the preceding Figures. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The wearable article 100 in this example forms an underband of a bra or similar garment. The strap 150 is arranged to surround the torso of the wearer and acts as a stretch layer of the underband. The strap 150 may comprise an elastomeric material. The stretch layer 150 is arranged to tension the wearable article 100 when worn.

The outer layer 111 is attached to the strap 150 by U-shaped adhesive layer 163.

The inner layer 101 is attached to the strap 150 by adhesive layer 145. The inner layer 101 covers and insulates the conductive pathways 213a, 213b so as to prevent the conductive pathways 213a, 213b from contacting a skin surface of the wearer. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 comprise openings 143a, 143b, 147a, 147b that are aligned with the electrodes 209a, 209b provided on the inner surface of the strap 150. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 do not cover the electrodes 209a, 209b which enables the electrodes 209a, 209b to come into close proximity with or contact the skin surface.

Referring to Figure 9, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features shown in Figures 1 and 2. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of the preceding Figures. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

Like the example of Figure 8, the wearable article 100 forms an underband 100. In this example, a separate inner layer 101 is not provided. The strap 150 forms the inner layer 101. In this example, insulating of the conductive pathways 213a, 213b is not required as, for example, the conductive pathways 213a, 213b may be self-insulating.

Referring to Figures 10 and 11, there is shown a simplified representation of another example wearable article 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of Figures 1 and 2. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The wearable article 100 comprises another material layer 142 disposed between the material layer 201 and the electronics module 300. The material layer 142 is a waterproof layer 142. The magnetic material 161 is part of the waterproof layer 142 rather than the material layer 201. The magnetic material 161 is stitched, bonded or otherwise attached to the waterproof layer 142 such as by providing a pocket space on the waterproof layer 142. The magnetic material 161 may be encapsulated in a protective plastic film which is stitched or otherwise attached to the material layer 142.

The pocket space 127 is sized to receive an electronics module 300. When the electronics module 300 is positioned in the pocket space 127, the recesses 139a, 139b enable the interface elements of the electronics module 300 to form a communicative connection with the connection terminals 2112, 211b.

The magnetic material 161 is positioned between the two recesses 139a, 139b in the waterproof layer 142. In this way, the magnetic material 161 is positioned between the connection interfaces 211a, 211b.

Providing the magnetic material 161 in the waterproof layer 142 can be beneficial when a plurality of unattached sensing components 200a, 200b are provided. That is, when separate sensing components 200a, 200b are provided rather than sensing components 200a, 200b that share the base component 201.

Referring to Figure 12, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features of Figures 10 and 11. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of Figure 3. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The magnetic material 161 is provided in the waterproof layer 142. Moreover, rather than providing the two sensing components 200a, 220b on the same base layer 201, the wearable article 100 of Figure 12 provides two separate sensing components 200a, 200b.

Referring to Figure 13, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features of Figures 10 and 11. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of Figure 4. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

The magnetic material 161 is provided in the waterproof layer 142. Moreover, rather than providing the two sensing components 200a, 220b on the same base layer 201, the wearable article 100 of Figure 13 provides two separate sensing components 200a, 200b.

Referring to Figure 14, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features of Figures 10 and 11. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of Figure 7. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components The strap 150 has a first end 151 and a second end 153 that are arranged proximate to one another but are not directly attached to one another in this example.

The sensing components 200a, 200b are provided as part of the strap 150. The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are provided on an outer facing surface of the strap 150. The outer facing surface faces away from the wearer of the article when worn.

The outer layer 111 is attached to the strap 150 by side seams 131, 133. The side seam 131 joins a first side margin of the outer layer 111 to the first end region 151 of the strap 150. The side seam 133 joins a second side margin of the outer fabric layer 111 to the second end region 153 of the strap 150.

The pocket space 127 is formed between the strap 150 and the outer layer 111. The connection interfaces 211a, 211b are provided within the pocket space 127. The pocket space 127 is sized to receive the electronics module 300. The pocket space 127 has an opening formed as a result of the upper margin of the outer layer 111 being unattached to the strap 150. This enables the electronics module 300 to be inserted into and removed from the pocket space 127.

The waterproof layer 142 that is attached to the strap 150 by adhesive layer 144. The waterproof layer 142 is further attached to the strap 150 and the outer layer 111 by the side seams 131, 133.

The waterproof layer 142 further comprises the magnetic material 161. The magnetic material 161 may be bonded, stitched or otherwise attached to the waterproof layer 142 such as via the use of a pocket. The magnetic material 161 is positioned between the two recesses 139a, 139b in the waterproof layer 142.

Referring to Figure 15, there is shown an example wearable article 100 incorporating the features of Figures 10 and 11. The wearable article 100 is similar to the wearable article 100 of Figure 8. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components Rather than providing the two sensing components 200a, 220b on the same base layer 201, the wearable article 100 of Figure 15 provides two separate sensing components 200a, 200b. The sensing components 200a, 200b are provided in a separate layer to the strap 150.

The outer layer 111 is attached to the strap 150 by side seams 131, 133. The side seam 131 joins a first side margin of the outer layer 111 to the first end region 151 of the strap 150. The side seam 133 joins a second side margin of the outer fabric layer 111 to the second end region 153 of the strap 150. The side seams 131, 133 also join the outer fabric layer 111 and strap 150 to the waterproof layer 142.

The strap 150 acts as a stretch layer 150 for the underband. The stretch layer 150 defines an open region in the pocket space 127 for receiving the electronics module 300. In this way, the elastomeric material 155 does not affect the communication between the electronics module 300 and the connection terminals 211a, 211b when the electronics module 300 is positioned in the pocket space.

The sensing components 200a, 200b are attached to the waterproof layer 142 by adhesive layer 144. The waterproof layer 142 is provided between the outer layer 111 and the sensing components 200a, 200b.

The inner layer 101 is attached to the sensing components 200a, 200b by adhesive layer 145. The inner layer 101 covers and insulates the conductive pathways 213a, 213b so as to prevent the conductive pathways 213a, 213b from contacting a skin surface of the wearer. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 comprise openings 143a, 143b, 147a, 147b that are aligned with the electrodes 209a, 209b provided on the inner surface of the strap 150. The inner layer 101 and adhesive layer 145 do not cover the electrodes 209a, 209b which enables the electrodes 209a, 209b to come into close proximity with or contact the skin surface.

Referring to Figure 16, there is shown a flow diagram for an example method of manufacturing a wearable article according to aspects of the present disclosure. Step 3101 of the method comprises providing a material layer. Step S102 of the method comprises coupling a magnetic material to the material layer so as to form an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching an electronics module to the wearable article.

While the above examples refer generally to sensing components 200a, 200b formed using knitting and weaving techniques the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. The sensing components 200a, 200b can comprise any desired conductive material and are not limited to knitted and woven conductive yarns. The conductive material may include printed conductive ink or conductive transfers formed from layers of insulating and conductive ink. Other forms of conductive material that can be incorporated onto a fabric are within the scope of the present disclosure. The sensing components 200, 200a, 200b in some examples may be integral with the first portion 101.

Some or all of the adhesive layers 144, 145 may not be required in all examples of the wearable article 100. Some components may have integral adhesive meaning that separate adhesive layers are not required. A different method of joining components together such as through stitching may be provided so that an adhesive is not required. In some examples, components may be integrally formed with one another such that an adhesive is not necessary.

The waterproof layer 142 is not required in all examples of the wearable article 100. The first portion 101 may be waterproof at least in the section adjacent to the pocket space. In addition, the electronics module 300 may be constructed in a way that avoids the need for separate waterproofing.

The electronics module 300 is not required to contact the connection terminals 211a, 211b to communicate with the sensing component 200a, 200b. For example, the sensing component 200a, 200b and the electronics module 300 may wirelessly communicate by forming an inductive coupling. The sensing component 200a, 200b and the electronics module 300 may both comprise an antenna for forming the inductive coupling. In these examples, the interface element 301 of the electronics module 300 is not required to be conductive and may be a non-conductive locating mechanism although it still may be in the form of one or more pads.

Two separate sensing components 200a, 200b are not required in all aspects of the present disclosure. The sensing components 200a, 200b may be connected together. A single sensing component may be provided comprising any number of connection terminals and electrodes or other sensing circuitry. Any number of sensing components 200a, 200b may be provided.

The first portion 101 is not required to be an upper portion. The second portion 111 is not required to be a lower portion. The first portion 101 and the second portion 111 may be left and right side portions for example. The seam 129 in such an example may extend vertically rather than horizontally. The wearable article 100 is not required to be a sleeveless shirt. Other wearable articles are within the scope of the present disclosure.

Referring to Figure 17, there is shown an example system 1 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The system 1 comprises a wearable article 100, electronics module 300 and a mobile device 400.

The electronics module 300 is able to be disposed within the pocket space formed by the first and second portions 101, 111. The pocket space 127 is accessible via the upper margin 113 of the second portion 111. When positioned within the pocket space, the electronics module 300 is able to integrate with the sensing components so as to obtain signals from the sensing components. The electronics module 300 is further arranged to wirelessly communicate data to the mobile device 400. Various protocols enable wireless communication between the electronics module 300 and the mobile device 400. Example communication protocols include Bluetooth 0, Bluetooth 0 Low Energy, and near-field communication (NFC).

The present disclosure is not limited to electronics modules 300 that communicate with mobile devices 400 and instead may communicate with any electronic device capable of communicating directly with the electronics module 300 or indirectly via a server over a wired or wireless communication network. The electronic device may be a wireless device or a wired device. The wireless/wired device may be a mobile phone, tablet computer, gaming system, MP3 player, point-of-sale device, or wearable device such as a smart watch. A wireless device is intended to encompass any compatible mobile technology computing device that connects to a wireless communication network, such as mobile phones, mobile equipment, mobile stations, user equipment, cellular phones, smartphones, handsets or the like, wireless dongles or other mobile computing devices. The wireless communication network is intended to encompass any type of wireless network such as mobile/cellular networks used to provide mobile phone services.

Beneficially, the removable electronic module 300 may contain all of the components required for data transmission and processing such that the wearable article 100 only comprises the sensing components. In this way, manufacture of the wearable article 100 may be simplified. In addition, it may be easier to clean a wearable article 300 which has fewer electronic components attached thereto or incorporated therein. Furthermore, the removable electronics module 300 may be easier to maintain and/or troubleshoot than embedded electronics. The electronics module 300 may comprise flexible electronics such as a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The electronics module 300 may be configured to be electrically coupled to the wearable article 300.

It may be desirable to avoid direct contact of the electronics module 300 with the wearer's skin while the wearable article 300 is being worn. It may be desirable to avoid the electronics module 300 coming into contact with sweat or moisture on the wearer's skin. The electronics module 300 may be provided with a waterproof coating or waterproof casing. For example, the electronics module 300 may be provided with a silicone casing.

Referring to Figure 18, there is shown a schematic diagram of an example of the electronics module 300. The electronics module 300 comprises an interface 301, a controller 303, a power source 305, and a communicator 307.

The interface 301 is arranged to communicatively couple with the sensing component of the fabric article so as to receive a signal from the sensing component. The controller 303 is communicatively coupled to the interface 301 and is arranged to receive the signals from the interface 301. The interface 301 may form a conductive coupling or a wireless (e.g. inductive) communication coupling in some examples. That is, the connection terminal of the fabric article may be in the form of an antenna for inductively coupling to a corresponding antenna of the interface 301. The interface 301 may comprise conductive pads as described above.

The power source 305 is coupled to the controller 303 and is arranged to supply power to the controller 303. The power source 305 may comprise a plurality of power sources. The power source 105 may be a battery. The battery may be a rechargeable battery. The battery may be a rechargeable battery adapted to be charged wirelessly such as by inductive charging. The power source 305 may comprise an energy harvesting device. The energy harvesting device may be configured to generate electric power signals in response to kinetic events such as kinetic events performed by a wearer of the article. The kinetic event could include walking, running, exercising or respiration of the wearer. The energy harvesting material may comprise a piezoelectric material which generates electricity in response to mechanical deformation of the converter. The energy harvesting device may harvest energy from body heat of a wearer of the article. The energy harvesting device may be a thermoelectric energy harvesting device. The power source may be a super capacitor, or an energy cell.

The communicator 307 may be a mobile/cellular communicator operable to communicate the data wirelessly via one or more base stations. The communicator 307 may provide wireless communication capabilities for the wearable article and enables the wearable article to communicate via one or more wireless communication protocols such as used for communication over: a wireless wide area network (WA/AN), a wireless metroarea network (VVMAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless personal area network (VVPAN), Bluetooth 0 Low Energy, Bluetooth e Mesh, Bluetooth 0 5, Thread, Zigbee, IEEE 802.15.4, Ant, a near field communication (NFC), a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), a cellular communication network, or any other electromagnetic RF communication protocol. The cellular communication network may be a fourth generation (4G) LTE, LTE Advanced (LTE-A), LTE Cat-M1, LTE Cat-M2, NB-IoT, fifth generation (5G), sixth generation (6G), and/or any other present or future developed cellular wireless network. A plurality of communicators may be provided for communicating over a combination of different communication protocols.

The electronics module 300 may comprise a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) that enables the electronics module 300 to access services provided by a mobile network operator (MNO) or virtual mobile network operator (VMNO). The UICC may include at least a read-only memory (ROM) configured to store an MNONMNO profile that the electronics module 300 can utilize to register and interact with an MNONMNO. The UICC may be in the form of a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card. The electronics module 300 may have a receiving section arranged to receive the SIM card. In other examples, the UICC is embedded directly into the controller 303 of the electronics module 300. That is, the UICC may be an electronic/embedded UICC (eUICC). A eUICC is beneficial as it removes the need to store a number of MNO profiles, i.e. electronic Subscriber Identity Modules (eSIMs). Moreover, eSIMs can be remotely provisioned to electronics modules 200. The electronics module 300 may comprise a secure element that represents an embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC).

The input unit 309 enables the electronics module 300 to receive a user input for controlling the operation of the electronics module 300. The input unit 309 may be any form of input unit capable of detecting an input event. The input event is typically an object being brought into proximity with the electronics module 300.

In some examples, the input unit 309 comprises a user interface element such as a button. The button may be a mechanical push button.

In some examples, the input unit 309 comprises an antenna. In these examples, the input event is detected by a current being induced in the first antenna. The mobile device 400 is powered to induce a magnetic field in an antenna of the mobile device 400. When the mobile device 400 is placed in the magnetic field of the antenna, the mobile device 400 induces current in the antenna In some examples, the input unit 309 comprises a sensor such as a proximity sensor or motion sensor. The sensor may be a motion sensor that is arranged to detect a displacement of the electronics module 300 caused by an object being brought into proximity with the electronics module 300. These displacements of the electronics module 300 may be caused by the object being tapped against the electronics module 300. Physical contact between the object and the electronics module 300 is not required as the electronics module 300 may be in the pocket space 127 of the wearable article 100. This means that there may be a fabric (or other material) barrier between the electronics module 300 and the object. In any event, the object being brought into contact with the fabric of the pocket will cause an impulse to be applied to the electronics module 300 which will be sensed by the sensor.

Referring to Figures 19 and 20, there is shown another example electronics module 300 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The top enclosure 319 is omitted in Figure 19 so that the internal components of the electronics module 300 are visible.

The electronics module comprises interface elements 301a, 301b in the form of conductive pads 201a, 201b. The two conductive pads 301a, 301b are adhesively attached to the external surface of the bottom enclosure 321 using adhesive layers 327, 329. The adhesive layers 327, 329 comprise openings 331, 333. These openings 331, 333 are aligned with openings 335, 337 provided in the bottom enclosure 321.

Pogo pins 339, 341 extend through openings 335, 337 in the bottom enclosure 321 and openings 331, 333 in the adhesive layers 327, 329 so as to electrically connect to the conductive pads 301a, 301b. The openings 331, 333 in the adhesive layers 327, 329 are larger than the openings 335, 337 in the bottom enclosure 321 to help ensure that adhesive does not interfere with the pogo pin mechanism or cause a potential short circuit. The pogo pins 339, 341 electrically connect the printed circuit board 311 to the conductive pads 301a, 301b.

Pogo pins 339, 341 are not required in all examples and other forms of force-biased conductor may be used.

The conductive pads 301a, 301b are formed from conductive elastomeric material 301a, 301b.

The conductive elastomeric material used in this example is a conductive silicone rubber material, but other forms of conductive elastomeric material may be used. Beneficially, elastomeric material such as conductive silicone rubber can have an attractive visual appearance and may easily be moulded or extruded to have branded or other visual elements.

The pads 301a, 301b may be textured to provide additional grip when positioned on the wearable article 100. The texture may be, for example, a ribbed or knurled texture. The elastomeric material 301a, 301b shown in Figures 19 and 20 has a ribbed texture. The conductive pads 301a, 301b are not required to be formed of elastomeric material other conductive materials such as metals or conductive fabric may be used.

The conductive pads 301a, 301b together form a split-ring shape, but other shapes and arrangements are within the scope of the present disclosure.

The housing 319,321 has a circular cross-sectional shape in the example of Figures 19 and 20 but this is not required. The housing may have any cross-sectional shape such as oval, square or rectangular.

In the present disclosure, the electronics module may also be referred to as an electronics device or unit. These terms may be used interchangeably.

At least some of the example embodiments described herein may be constructed, partially or wholly, using dedicated special-purpose hardware. Terms such as 'component', 'module' or 'unit' used herein may include, but are not limited to, a hardware device, such as circuitry in the form of discrete or integrated components, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), which performs certain tasks or provides the associated functionality. In some embodiments, the described elements may be configured to reside on a tangible, persistent, addressable storage medium and may be configured to execute on one or more processors. These functional elements may in some embodiments include, by way of example, components, such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. Although the example embodiments have been described with reference to the components, modules and units discussed herein, such functional elements may be combined into fewer elements or separated into additional elements. Various combinations of optional features have been described herein, and it will be appreciated that described features may be combined in any suitable combination. In particular, the features of any one example embodiment may be combined with features of any other embodiment, as appropriate, except where such combinations are mutually exclusive.

Throughout this specification, the term "comprising" or "comprises" means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of others.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A wearable article comprising: a plurality of connection interfaces for communicatively coupling with an electronics module, the plurality of connection interfaces being arranged proximate to one another; and an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module to the wearable article, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a material layer and a magnetic material coupled to the material layer, wherein the magnetic material is provided between the plurality of connection interfaces.
2. A wearable article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of connection interfaces are arranged proximate to one another.
3. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a conductive pathway extending from the connection interface, wherein the conductive pathway is arranged to connect the connection interface to an electronic component.
4. A wearable article as claimed in claim 3, wherein the electronic component comprises an electrode, and optionally wherein the wearable article comprises the electrode.
5. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the connection interface is provided on the material layer.
6. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the connection interface is provided on a different layer of the wearable article to the material layer.
7. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material layer comprises a recess for receiving an interface element of the electronics module, and wherein the magnetic material is positioned proximate to the recess.
8. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material layer is a fabric layer.
9. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material layer is a waterproof layer.
10. A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material layer forms a pocket space, and wherein the magnetic material is disposed within the pocket space.
11 A wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material layer is a first material layer of the wearable article, and the wearable article further comprises a second material layer, wherein the second material layer overlaps the first material layer to form a pocket space.
12. A wearable article as claimed in claim 11, wherein the pocket space is sized to receive the electronics module.
13. A wearable article as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the pocket space is a first pocket space, and wherein the material layer forms a second pocket space in which the magnetic material is disposed.
14. A wearable article as claimed in claim 13, wherein the second pocket space is provided within the first pocket space.
15. A wearable article as claimed in any of claims 11 to 14, wherein the second material layer forms a further part of the attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module to the wearable article.
16. A wearable article as claimed in claim 15, wherein the second material layer comprises a stretch material and forms a pressure membrane arranged to apply pressure to the electronics module when located within the pocket space, the pressure urges the electronics module into attachment with the wearable article.
17. A wearable article as claimed in any of claims 11 to 16, wherein the pocket space is accessible from an outside surface of the wearable article.
18. An assembly comprising an electronics module and a wearable article as claimed in any preceding claim.
19. A method of manufacturing a wearable article, the method comprising: providing a plurality of connection interfaces for communicatively coupling with an electronics module, the plurality of connection interfaces being arranged proximate to one another providing a material layer; and coupling a magnetic material to the material layer so as to form an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the electronics module to the wearable article, wherein the magnetic material is provided between the plurality of connection interfaces.