Design and Smart Textile Materials

Abstract

This research discusses smart textiles and their implications in the design process. The aim is to equip designers with an understanding of the significant potential properties of smart textiles and inspire them to integrate these materials into the design process. The sensory, adaptive, responsive, and multifunctional qualities of smart textiles open a multidisciplinary scope of use that offers many alternatives in numerous industries, including construction, fashion, healthcare, sports, and automotive. Research and development for new and smart materials cross scientific boundaries, entering design territories and enhancing the quality of life and our environment. These textiles are created by integrating material properties with embedded technology to deliver aesthetically pleasing innovative functional qualities. However, the practices associated with the two disciplines of conventional textile design and advanced technology embedding often vary. Designers currently working with conventional textiles may be able to solve problems by utilizing smart materials and revisiting their design techniques to embrace the unique characteristics of the smart materials. The research findings suggest that designers should pursue appropriate approaches and contribute their productive skills and material expertise to utilize the smart textile design effectively.

Washability and abrasion resistance of illuminative knitted e-textiles with POFs and silver-coated conductive yarns

“…. Applications made possible by integrating electronic components into textiles to achieve functions such as heating, light emitting, sensing, and communication are not limited to the fields of health monitoring, rehabilitation, gaming, sports, and the military (Ashour & Rashdan, 2021;Shi et al, 2020;Zahid et al, 2021).…”