Lateral lighting fibre elements

The key element of the SCILIF SunFibre technology are sideways emitting light guides. These are specially designed light-conducive polymer fibres that specifically enable both the transmission of light and managed emission of light from the surface of the light guide. The fibre is nestled in a textile cover (piping). Among other functions, this piping ensures an improved light impression, significantly increases the mechanical resistance of the conductor and enables its sewing into textile garments. The SCILIF SunFibre piping is lightweight, highly flexible, mechanically resistant, washable and easy to incorporate into textile goods.

The SCILIF SunFibre piping emits intense light generated by super-luminous and highly effective LEDs. The pipping is ready to be sewn into fabric. The light coming from the piping is evenly diffused across the entire length of the piping. This ensures the best visibility possible for those wearing clothing or accessories equipped with the SCILIF technology. Miniature LED sources are tightly connected to the SCILIF SunFibre and incorporated into textile garments in a way that is concealed from view.

The LED sources are powered by a control unit consisting of a battery, a microprocessor, and the power electronics. The control unit is equipped with rechargeable batteries. Microprocessor control enables such functions as prevention of battery overcharging or draining and user mode selection. Also responsiveness to external conditions such as light levels, user motion, is under development as is the ability to communicate with portable devices.