A collaborative effort by researchers from Nottingham Trent University, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e.V. (Germany), and Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (Italy) has led to the development of washable and durable magnetic field sensing electronic textiles. These textiles, believed to be the first of their kind, offer the potential to revolutionize their use in clothing.
In a groundbreaking study published in the Nature portfolio journal Communications Engineering, the team details how flexible and highly responsive ‘magnetoresistive’ sensors can be embedded within braided textile yarns that are compatible with standard textile manufacturing processes.
The innovative textiles can be operated via a variety of functions using accessories like a ring or glove equipped with miniature magnets. These integrated sensors are discreetly embedded into the fabric, with their positions marked through dyeing or embroidery. Acting as touchless controls or “buttons,” this seamless integration enhances functionality.
This technology extends beyond traditional uses, with applications such as textile-based keyboards or other interfaces that work underwater and in various weather conditions. An added benefit is that, unlike capacitive sensors and textile-based switches prone to accidental activation, these sensors offer precise functionality. By incorporating this technology into everyday clothing, users could interact with computers, smartphones, smartwatches, and other smart devices, effectively transforming their garments into wearable human-computer interfaces.
Potential applications include temperature and safety controls for specialized attire, gaming, and interactive fashion. For instance, users could perform simple gestures to control LEDs or other illuminating devices embedded in the fabric.
The researchers showcased the versatility of this technology by demonstrating it in applications such as a functional armband for navigational control in virtual reality environments and a self-monitoring safety strap for motorcycle helmets. This represents the first time washable magnetic sensors have been seamlessly integrated into textiles for human-computer interaction.
The study included contributions from Nottingham Trent University’s School of Science and Technology and the Nottingham School of Art & Design.
“Our design could revolutionize electronic textiles for both specialized and everyday clothing. Tactile sensors on textiles vary in usefulness as accidental activation occurs when they rub or brush against surfaces. Touchless interaction reduces wear and tear. Importantly, our technology is designed for everyday use. It is machine washable and durable and does not impact the drape, or overall aesthetic appeal of the textile,” said Dr. Pasindu Lugoda, the study’s lead researcher from Nottingham Trent University’s Department of Engineering.
“Electronic textiles are becoming increasingly popular with wide-ranging uses, but the fusion of electronic functionality and textile fabrics can be very challenging. Electronic textiles have evolved and now rely on soft and flexible materials which are robust enough to endure washing and bending, but which are intuitive and reliable,” added Dr. Theo Hughes-Riley, corresponding author of the paper and a member of Nottingham Trent University’s Advanced Textiles Research Group.
“Our design introduces a novel approach to interactive wearables, including applications in conventionally unlikely environments,” commented Kalana Marasinghe, a fellow researcher at Nottingham Trent University.
