Editorial: Heimtextil 2024—focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies

Editorial: Heimtextil 2024—focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies

Heimtextil 2024—focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies

The main topic of conversation at the 2024 edition of Heimtextil—the world’s largest international trade fair for home and contract textiles—which was held in Frankfurt, Germany, during January 9-11, 2024, was the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies in home textile applications.

At the fair, a number of exhibitors demonstrated digital innovations which employ AI and AR, including fabric design applications, image generators and software programmes. Danny Richman and The Millshop Online presented an AI fabric design application called FabricGenie which is said to represent the first AI technology of its kind to be employed in the home textiles industry. At the same time, Variant3D demonstrated a software application called Loop which is capable of transforming two-dimensional (2D) models into knit-to-shape programmes for producing 3D knitted products.

Elsewhere at the fair, NewRetex showcased an AI-powered line for sorting textile waste. The line is capable of accurately identifying a textile product and assigning it an appropriate category in preparation for recycling. In another development, MANND demonstrated an AI chatbot which had been designed to provide visitors at Heimtextil with helpful information about the 2024 edition of the fair. The company also demonstrated an image generator called Interactive Design Studio which is capable of producing interior design concepts based on data entered into a user interface (UI). Meanwhile, Augmented Weaving showcased an AR technology developed in collaboration with Penelope CAD Systems which can display high quality digital prototypes of “real life” textile samples.

Overall, the 2024 edition of Heimtextil was hailed as a success in spite of a gloomy economic backdrop and difficult travel conditions due to nationwide rail strikes and regional protest demonstrations. The organisers of the fair staged several dedicated exhibition areas in order to provide visitors with information relating to key trends and the latest product developments in the home textiles industry. In addition, they hosted a series of lectures and tours and a series of conferences called Sleep & More, during which experts presented the latest findings, developments and trends on the subject of sleep.