Development of a wearable technology for reducing the effects of cold intolerance among workers

The overall project, funded by IRSST, focuses on the problem of cold intolerance in the workplace. Cold intolerance manifests itself primarily in the hands through pain, numbness, stiffness and color changes, and can also lead to loss of dexterity, discomfort and dysesthesia. This can lead to cessation of activities or career changes to sectors with more tolerable and warmer environments for the affected individuals. One effective means of prevention is the use of heated gloves.  The current range on the market, aimed primarily at the winter leisure and outdoor sports market, is not adapted to working conditions and the handling of vibrating tools. This is reflected, for example, in the deterioration of heating elements and connections between electronic components, which break down in fatigue under the effect of vibrations. In the absence of satisfactory solutions adapted to working conditions, the aim of this project is to develop and explore the potential of heated gloves, based on recent advances in printable electronics, to provide a technological solution to the problem of cold intolerance in the workplace.

This project focuses specifically on designing and prototyping a heated glove in accordance with documented guidelines for manufacturing “ergonomic” gloves. This work involves careful consideration of how to seamlessly integrate and position the electronic components (connectors, heating element, batteries and control board) developed as part of the other sub-projects. Particular attention must also be paid to the user experience, including setup, user interaction and comfort. The aim is to design compact, comfortable and robust wearable technology for workers. Finally, the research team intends for the developed solution to incorporate eco-design principles, particularly with regard to repairability. This aspect must be taken into consideration.

Following the production of prototypes, testing with a thermal camera and fittings will be conducted in the laboratory. These fittings will enable adjustments to be made to the pattern and gradation (outsourced). In parallel, tests will be conducted to assess the rigidity of the glove developed, providing preliminary information on its comfort. This stage aims to evaluate the impact of integrating heating elements on the mechanical properties of the textiles. Finally, the prototypes that have passed these stages will be tested in the field with workers exposed to cold conditions. Data will be collected and used to suggest possible improvements to the prototypes. For this last part, you will be working with a master's student.

In terms of expected results, the main deliverables of your project will be functional glove prototypes and field test reports. Finally, you will be expected to present your results at international conferences and in journals.