Clevertex - Grado Zero Espace Srl

So far, a dress, messenger bags and Tibetan prayer flags have been developed. The two latter
products can be ordered for US $125 and US $150, respectively [205].
Fig. 114 Sonic Fabric TM , dress, flags and bag made out of the fabric
To exploit new technologies fully, however, a multidisciplinary approach is required involving networks
and a dialogue between researchers, manufacturers, applications specialists and marketing
professionals. Innovators are responding to the challenges with a plethora of developments.
Researchers at the Centre of Biomimetics at University of Reading are carrying out research to mimic
Penguin down feathers to create a variable thickness active thermal insulation structure for clothing
used in extreme conditions. The Penguin down feather is a good insulator because of its structure: It
possesses a shaft of circular cross section (barb) and perpendicular fibres (barbules). The goal of
developing thinner, more efficient insulation fabrics and a penguin pelt has got a temperature gradient
in the order of 80°C across a thickness that's no more than 2cm. Synthetic alternatives provide a lower
insulation value per unit weight because the y do not consist of the natural feathers’ barbules.
Fig. 115 Penguin down feather [206]
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