Scientists at Germany's largest textiles institute in Denkendorf are researching new fabrics and materials. Sensors embedded in smart clothing might soon help protect firefighters and infants by measuring vital bodily functions and transmitting data that will issue an alert in case problems arise.But the sensors don't just need to function properly - they also need to be flexible, sturdy and resistant to laundering. Researchers in Denkendorf are also hard at work developing high-tech fabrics that can repel dirt and stains and help make our lives easier and better in other ways.