Scientists Finally Develop Smart Clothing from 'Back to the Future'

The year 2015 has come and gone, but all technological predictions from the popular film "Back to the Future" have not been developed by scientists. A year too late, scientists may have finally developed the solar-powered clothing depicted in the movie.

A number of technological marvels from the film have been developed through the years. There is the hover board, which has clicked with the younger generation. Nike has also developed the auto-zip or self-lacing pair of Jordans the main character has worn in the film. However, a more important technological development has been under way.

Associate professor Jayan Thomas from the University of Central Florida has been inspired by the film to develop nanoscience technology to develop what is known as a "solar-powered filament" that has the ability to store energy. This kind of filament is flexible that it could be woven into textiles, thus leading to the likelihood that it could be turned into clothes.  

According to the research, the "solar-powered filaments" are made from thin copper strips which are equipped with solar cells on one side which is paired with a layer of energy storing cells. The professor and his team have handwoven the filaments themselves using a small table top loom.

This kind of smart cloth could possibly act as solar-powered batteries for which we could use to charge our devices. In the event that this becomes a marketable venture, we could all outdate portable power banks, wireless chargers and outlet chargers. This smart clothing could be a renewable source of power. Such technology could be used in military, where soldier's clothes could be made from these incredible filaments, allowing a reduction in the loads they carry while still providing them with enough energy for their devices. Furthermore, the team aims to use such technology in other marvels such as electric-powered vehicles.