In the past, electronic pianos were rather large and bulky, but Smart Textiles has created a tablecloth capable of operating like a piano. Using conductive fibers and a series of other components, the fabric can be used to create a drum kit and piano keys that can be printed onto the cloth.
The electronic piano tablecloth is the work of Li Guo and Mats Johansson of Smart Textiles who merged their disciplines to create the technology that could transform live performances.
Johansson explained the fabric, saying: "The problem today is very much where you get this change from the actual fabric to some kind of electronics, from soft flexible things to the rigid hardware and of course the electricity, the batteries. They are difficult to make from the actual textiles but we have projects that try to look also into that. To make them even flexible and lighter and so on."
Electronic Piano Textiles
Smart Textiles has Created a Musical Tablecloth that Produces Sound
Trend Themes
1. Conductive Fiber Technology - The development of conductive fibers enables the creation of innovative textile-based electronic devices.
2. Printed Instrument Interfaces - Printing piano keys and drum kits onto fabric opens up opportunities for interactive and portable musical experiences.
3. Integration of Soft and Rigid Components - Finding ways to seamlessly combine soft and flexible textiles with rigid electronics and power sources can revolutionize wearable technology.
Industry Implications
1. Textile Manufacturing - Textile companies can explore incorporating conductive fibers into their production processes to create smart fabrics for various applications.
2. Music and Entertainment - The development of electronic piano textiles opens up new possibilities for musicians and performers to create interactive and unique musical experiences.
3. Wearable Technology - Companies in the wearable technology industry can explore the integration of soft and rigid components to create more comfortable and functional devices.