TEXTILES.ORG
In a show floor presentation, textile industry expert and consultant Paige Mullis provided an overview of “Innovations shaping our world.” Her opening question, “Why the Consumer Electronics (CES) show?” launched a review of highlights from the annual event, considering the perspectives of brand positioning, business intelligence, brand development and market relevance.
Artificial Intelligence (AI), sustainability and inclusivity were the three themes that she picked up on in her presentation. Some of the innovations discussed were not textile products, specifically, but Mullis stressed the importance of keeping abreast of new technologies that could support growth in the textile industry
At the least, these new technologies will impact all of us in some way. For example, a tiny, voice activated device that projects text messages on your hand; AI-inspired technology in your car that can answer questions and provide more sophisticated information; and holograms that interact in real-time with people in different locations. Others push the boundaries for textile products, such as a touch interface technology in the form of a film on a car window.
Smaller and more flexible energy supply was an important development, with Mullis giving the example of Powerfoyle, a solar cell that gathers energy from both outdoor and indoor light sources to deliver clean, sustainable energy. The company’s website promises no cords, no disposable batteries and no charging emergencies. The Swedish development uses Exeger technology that is based on Dye Sensitized Solar Cell (DSC) technology with a new architecture that boasts improved performance, greater flexibility and more seamless integration onto curved surfaces.
Developments among members of the Organic and Printed Electronics Association (OE-A) were highlighted, specifically in printing technology including heating, batteries and sensors. Mullis shared that the global printed electronics market size was valued at $10.76 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $75.89 billion by 2033, with many areas of production being massively scaled up. This is according to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting.
Textiles have previously been considered too rough for coating and printed electronics, but it’s now clear that the printed electronics industry is ready to collaborate with the textile industry, and based on presentations at this year’s ATA Expo, the interest is mutual.
Dr. Marie O’Mahony is an industry consultant, author and academic based in London. Janet Preus is senior editor of Textile Technology Source, a publication of the Advanced Textiles Association. She can be reached at janet.preus@textiles.org.