The word robot usually means a large machine. But fabric can also be turned into a robot. Fabric can be programmed and patterns encoded so that it moves with the human body. Scientists at the University of Tartu used this idea and created smart slippers.
Professor Indrek Must says that his team programmed the textile, drawing inspiration from nature. The textile behaves like a second skin that aids movement. It can help people who have difficulty moving or simply provide comfort.
Leonid Zinatullin, who worked on the slippers for his bachelor's thesis, says that many shoes are uncomfortable. His team uses technology that helps make shoes that fit a person's foot precisely. For example, the foot can be scanned to create a shoe that fits perfectly.
Currently, the scientists have three pairs of prototype slippers ready. Embroidering one slipper takes about an hour. Regular thread doesn't stretch, but if a zigzag stitch is used, the fabric stretches. The scientists can control how the fabric stretches.
During their work, the scientists discovered that the smart patterns resemble a belt. Therefore, Indrek Must took the slippers to a dance party. He says the slippers are practical and look nice.