The advent of “intelligent” machines and buildings is nothing new, However, artificial intelligence can be applied to a variety of materials, including fabrics. Studies are currently being conducted the world over, led by universities and companies in different sectors—the textile, health and telecoms industries, among others—geared to finding ways of applying technological innovation to fabrics.

Jackets capable of responding to mobile phone-calls, pockets fitted with solar panels to recharge cellphones and garments that warn their wearer when the first signs of illness are detected—while this might sound like science fiction, these and other applications are very real.

Along these lines, Disseny Hub Barcelona, in conjunction with the Centre de Materials (Mater), part of Foment de les Arts i del Disseny (FAD), have been researching materials incorporating fabrics which are innovative in some respect, whether in the way the material is applied or owing to some value intrinsic to the material.

This endeavour has yielded a database describing 76 materials and products classified by the function they fulfil and the various sectors in which the fabrics are applied.

Through their research, DHUB intends to build up a new collection of products designed using innovative fabrics (whether active, technological or technical) for the purpose of creating a new exhibition on the subject. This research has also enabled Mater, Centre de Materials del FAD, to augment the textile references in their database.