In their work, the researchers show how they incorporate tiny flexible and highly sensitive magnetoresistive sensors into braided yarns that are compatible with conventional textile production. Such garments can be used in a variety of ways using a ring or a glove with an integrated miniature magnet. The sensors are seamlessly incorporated into the textile, while the position of the sensors can be indicated by colored areas or embroidery, allowing them to function as touchless controls.
The technology, which could even be implemented in the form of a textile-based keyboard, can be integrated into clothing and other textiles and works under water and in a wide range of weather conditions. The highlight: unlike conventional capacitive sensors in textiles and textile-based switches, it cannot be activated accidentally. “By integrating the technology into everyday clothing, people could interact with computers, smartphones, watches and other networked devices and transform their clothing into a wearable human-computer interface,” summarizes Dr. Denys Makarov from the Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research at the HZDR.
Washable fashion for human-computer interaction
The technology could be used in areas such as temperature or safety controls for special clothing, in games or in interactive fashion – for example, by allowing users to control LEDs or other light sources embedded in the textiles with simple gestures. In addition, the research team is demonstrating the technology on a range of applications, including a functional wristband that enables navigation in a virtual reality environment. “This is the first time that washable magnetic sensors have been unobtrusively integrated into textiles to be used for human-computer interactions,” emphasizes Prof. Niko MĂĽnzenrieder from the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano.
“Our design could revolutionize electronic textiles for both specialty and everyday wear,” says team leader Dr. Pasindu Lugoda from the Department of Engineering at Nottingham Trent University and adds: “Tactile sensors on textiles are of limited use as they can be accidentally activated when they graze or rub against surfaces. Non-contact interaction does not exhibit such behavior and also reduces wear and tear. Importantly, our technology is designed for everyday use. It is machine washable, durable and does not affect the overall aesthetics of the textile.”
Publication
P. Lugoda, E. S. Oliveros-Mata, K. Marasinghe, R. Bhaumik, N. Pretto, C. Oliveira, T. Dias, T. Hughes-Riley, M. Haller, N. MĂĽnzenrieder, D. Makarov, Submersible touchless interactivity in conformable textiles enabled by highly selective magnetoresistive electronic yarns, in Communications Engineering, 2025 (DOI: 10.1038/s44172-025-00373-x)
Contact
Dr. Denys Makarov | Head of Smart Materials and Functional Elements
Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research at HZDR
Tel.: +49 351 260 3273 | E-Mail: d.makarov@hzdr.de
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Further links
👉 www.hzdr.de
Photo: Free University of Bozen/Bolzano
