A team of researchers from the UK, Germany, and Italy, have developed a washable, magnetic field sensing textile which can be used to operate devices through the use of a ring or glove.
The team consists of researchers from Nottingham Trent University in the UK, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf in Germany and Free University of Bozen-Bolzano in Italy.
This washable, touchless technology can allows users to interact with devices or specialised clothing by pointing a finger above a sensor.
The technology can be integrated into clothing, which would allow users to interact with computers, smart devices, and other technologies by using clothing as a wearable human-computer interface.
The magnetic field sensing electronic textiles, believed to be the first of their kind, use small, flexible and responsive ‘magnetoresistive’ sensors which can be placed within braided textile yarns that are compatible with existing textile manufacturing processes.
The textile can be operated by the user through the use of a ring or glove, requiring a miniature magnet. The sensors are integrated within the textile, allowing the positioning of sensors to be indicated using dyeing or embroidering, acting as touchless control points.
It is claimed that this technology marks the first time that washable magnetic sensors have been integrated within textiles to be used for human-computer interactions.
Dr Pasindu Lugoda, lead researcher, Nottingham Trent University, commented: “Our design could revolutionise 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.”
Photo credit: Free University of Bozen-Bolzano