The breakthrough in the field of safety clothing for pedestrians, cyclists and runners came in the days of the Technical University in Liberec. In cooperation with STAP Valero, he developed light-conducting fibers in the cavity of the fabric. Layered strips or tubes that are connected to the battery are brightly lit when switched on.
Pedestrian visibility up to one kilometer
Thanks to the brightness, they are clearly visible at night and in the gloom at first glance and can prevent many collisions of pedestrians with cars. "In the Liberec region there have recently been several crashes of pedestrians, mostly fatal. And it's almost always the same. Drivers say the pedestrians have not seen it at all or until the last minute.
The use of light-conducting fibers is welcomed. "I wish she would get used to it soon. Especially for the most vulnerable children, "he says.
The novelty is another step in protecting pedestrians and athletes moving along the roads. "Compared to today's well-used reflective material, it has the advantage of working without the need for direct exposure. The reflective tapes are visible only when the light strikes them. But it is not always the case. Perhaps at the intersection or in hilly terrain the pedestrian lights can be missed and he can be seen at the last minute. This is not a threat to our product. It is lit on its own, "says Jixi from the Department of Materials Engineering at the Technical University in Liberec.
Additionally, pedestrian visibility with reflective elements is about two hundred meters long, with a light band up to a kilometer.
Usage is wide, it can also be washed
Light-fiber optic fibers can be used for children's briefcases, backpacks, jackets or prams. The most common type is an AAA battery; it lasts for about three hours of continuous light. And the products can also be routinely washed. Just unplug resources. Fibers can carry 40-degree washing as well as chemical cleaning. Just a dryer is a problem.
New products are on the market today. "So far, we can only offer peoples or fiber cords for further use. For the textile manufacturer or bag maker, "said STAP Manufacturing Director, the company is also preparing a separate set of ribbon with a source that can be retrofitted with a bag, pram or helmet.
The company is also working with other manufacturers who have built reflective tapes for example into children's briefcases.