Shape-Shifting Fabric Could Keep

Do you ever head out of the house without checking the weather to later realize that you are either under or overdressed? A research lab in California known as Otherlab, has been working on what it callis "thermally adaptive materials" using ARPA-E funding. This fabric responds to the rises and falls in temperature to keep you comfortable in any weather.
The fabric is made of two different materials that react to temperature differently. The result is that when it gets cold, the fabric puffs out. It also operates completely passively, meaning that there are no sensors or electronics. The response may take a little bit of time but this beats having to carry around an extra piece of clothing when you aren't prepared for weather changes. The scientists that helped develop this fabric says that it will insulate you as well as a t-shirt does at minimum poof, and at maximum it will be almost equivalent to some heavy outdoor gear. Jean Chang, a mechanical engineer over at Otherlab, explains:

Over the next year the researchers will continue development as well as run tests to make sure that this article of clothing will fit and feel like any other, just with an extra temperature-changing feature. With any luck you'll soon be able to leave your home without worrying about the weather before you go.


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