Researchers have developed a washable touchless technology that enables users to interact with everyday textiles or specialised clothing by simply pointing their finger above a sensor.

A team from Nottingham Trent University, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e.V. (Germany), and Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (Italy) has created washable and durable magnetic field sensing electronic textiles, which are thought to be the first of their kind. The innovation is said to be set to transform clothing and textile applications.

In a study published in the journal Communications Engineering, the researchers demonstrate how tiny flexible and highly responsive magnetoresistive sensors can be embedded within braided textile yarns, making them compatible with conventional textile manufacturing.

The technology allows users to interact with the textile using a ring or glove containing a miniature magnet. The sensors, seamlessly integrated within the textile, can be marked using dyeing or embroidery to function as touchless controls or 'buttons'.

This innovation can be used across various applications, including textile-based keyboards, smart clothing, and interactive fashion. It remains operational underwater and in different weather conditions and is less prone to accidental activation than capacitive sensors.

By embedding this technology into clothing, users could interact with devices such as computers, smartphones, and smartwatches, turning garments into wearable human-computer interfaces, the researchers say. Potential applications include temperature and safety controls for specialised clothing, gaming, and interactive fashion, such as gesture-controlled LEDs integrated into textiles.

The researchers demonstrated the technology in multiple applications, including a functional armband for navigation in virtual reality and a self-monitoring safety strap for motorcycle helmets.

This is believed to be the first instance of washable magnetic sensors being unobtrusively integrated into textiles for human-computer interaction.

Dr Pasindu Lugoda from Nottingham Trent University’s Department of Engineering said: "Our design could revolutionise electronic textiles for both specialised and everyday clothing. Touchless interaction reduces wear and tear, and our technology is designed for daily use. It is machine washable and does not compromise the drape or aesthetic appeal of the textile."

Dr Theo Hughes-Riley, from Nottingham Trent University’s Advanced Textiles Research Group, added: "Electronic textiles are growing in popularity, but integrating functionality with textile fabrics remains challenging. Our approach enhances robustness while ensuring flexibility and reliability."

Kalana Marasinghe, another researcher on the project, commented: "Our design introduces a novel approach to interactive wearables, including applications in conventionally unlikely environments."

www.ntu.ac.uk