Гонконгская компания HKRITA представила умную одежду, автоматически регулирующую теплоизоляцию

Research/Development/Education HKRITA clothing adapts to changing temperatures The soft robotic system has been developed using durable, lightweight textile materials. © HKRITA 25th August 2026 Innovation in Textiles  |  Hong Kong An intelligent clothing system that automatically adjusts its thermal insulation in response to changing temperatures is among the latest developments from the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA). The iAdapt Intelligent Soft Robotic Clothing system uses embedded soft robotic structures that inflate and deflate to regulate the wearer’s personal microclimate. The technology, developed by a team led by Professor Dahua Shou, gained international recognition earlier this year, receiving a Gold Award in the Consumer Solutions category at the 2026 Edison Awards, held in Fort Myers, Florida. In cold conditions, the structures inflate to increase the still-air gap within the garment and provide greater thermal insulation. As temperatures rise, they deflate to reduce thermal resistance and allow the wearer to dissipate heat more effectively. The system is designed to optimise both heat and moisture transfer while maintaining high levels of breathability with its operation controlled through a programmable inflation and deflation process. A mobile app provides an additional interface for the wearer. By allowing a single garment to adapt to changing temperatures and levels of activity, HKRITA believes the technology could provide an alternative to relying solely on heating and air conditioning to maintain individual thermal comfort. “iAdapt reflects our commitment to practical, people-focused solutions with global impact,” says says HKRITA CEO Jake Koh. “By lowering the energy demands of climate control, it supports both environmental preservation and functionality while redefining consumer expectations of clothing.” In addition to everyday apparel, HKRITA sees potential applications for medical personnel, outdoor workers, firefighters and winter sports athletes, where conventional garments may need to provide substantial insulation in one environment but can become uncomfortable as conditions or activity levels change. The soft robotic system has been developed using durable, lightweight textile materials to maintain the flexibility and comfort expected of conventional clothing while adding the ability to dynamically alter its thermal properties. Business intelligence for the fibre, textiles and apparel industries: technologies, innovations, markets, investments, trade policy, sourcing, strategy... Find out more