Possibility of Using Fractal Web Based Interconnects in Smart Textiles in Terms of Mechanical and Electrical Performance

Spiderweb is a naturally available mechanically robust and optimized structure, which can withstand multidirectional forces even one or more spiral or even radial lines are cut. Recently, the spiderweb (fractal web) design has received significant interest in flex circuits, displays, smart textiles, wearable healthcare etc. In this work, a three order spiderweb hexagonal interconnect architecture is studied for uniaxial stretchability using finite element analysis (FEA). Both FEA and model are in close agreement. The interconnect geometry constitutes of copper film embedded on polyimide substrate. The structure is designed with a radial symmetry consisting of rigid silicon island cells with straight lines. Analytical model is also developed to predict the changes in resistance and self-capacitance of the wires with uni/multiaxial stress and same has been compared with FEA results.