IHOFMANN was busy for customers at Techtextil 2017, Frankfurt, Germany and like every time made some interesting observations when walking around the exhibition space.

Forster Rohner AG

Swiss company Forster Rohner AG looking back on a fine heritage for more than 100 years, is developing textile surfaces with electronic functional features since several years. According to Dr. Jan Zimmermann, head of innovations at Forster Rohner, the company intends to launch its own collection of illuminated textiles. The e-broidery^® technology allows the integration of light effects on textile surfaces without compromising washability and drapability. Design options for LED fabrics in private and public environments are multifarious.

Amann Group

Another long-standing company, Amann Group from Germany, has initiated its own innovation lab for technical yarn solutions. 4 major divisions sensory, conductive, indicate, composites deal with different technical issues. Yarns with indicator function visualizes the degree of soiling for example.  The innovation lab is geared to develop solutions for ambitious technical problems. This is an interesting strategic orientation, demonstrating that Amann has recognized the signs of the time. It certainly remains exciting to see how business activities of the innovation lab are developing.