Sportwear brand Mizuno works in collaboration with Sumitomo Metal Mining and Kyodo Printing to create a special material meant to block infrared rays. This initiative ensures that the material will not be penetrated by the lens like traditional fabrics are. The new fabric is inspired by stealth aircraft technology as it integrated components that absorb and deflect infrared radiation to reduce the thermal signature created.
This makes it more complicated for infrared cameras to see through the uniform. To ensure that this is done correctly, various tests were demonstrated to highlight the fabric's effectiveness. The main goal is to protect athlete's privacy when they are competing and it also helps by regulating the body heat more effectively.
Infrared Lens-Protecting Clothing
Mizuno Taps Sumitomo Metal Mining and Kyodo Printing on a Design
Trend Themes
1. Infrared-blocking Textiles - Textiles engineered to block infrared rays incorporate stealth technology, aiming to enhance privacy and thermal regulation.
2. Collaborative Material Innovation - Collaborations between companies from diverse sectors are driving the creation of advanced materials.
3. Athlete Privacy Solutions - Innovative fabrics designed to protect athletes from invasive infrared imaging address growing concerns over privacy.
Industry Implications
1. Sportwear - The sportswear industry is embracing tech collaborations to produce gear that improves both performance and privacy protection.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Advanced textile manufacturing is revolutionizing fabric technology by incorporating infrared-absorbing components.
3. Privacy Technology - The privacy technology sector is innovating with new materials that obscure thermal signatures to safeguard personal privacy.