Technological advancements and the role of artificial intelligence – a review of textile material, machine manufacturing, and stakeholder experiences

Purpose The purpose of this review paper is to thoroughly assess and analyze the progression of technology and research in textile material and machine manufacturing over the past ten years. The primary focus is on understanding how advancements in technology, including mechatronics, smart technology, digitization, and artificial intelligence, contribute to enhancing stakeholders’ experiences. Design/methodology/approach This review paper is designed to comprehensively explore the technological advancements within the textile industry. The information is gathered from diverse sources such as academic research, industrial research, machine manufacturers, and textile manufacturers. The methodology involves an in-depth examination of both the transformative impact of digitization and the integration of commercially viable technologies, emphasizing their adoption and adaptation to enhance manufacturing processes and competitiveness. Findings Significant progress has been achieved through technical advancements, research, digitization, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fields of fiber manufacturing, spinning, weaving, knitting, textile machinery, dyeing, and monitoring in the past decade. Advanced technologies such as blockchain, soft computing, and AI technologies have brought a new era of textile manufacturing through enhanced efficiency, optimized processes, improved product quality, and reduced resource consumption throughout the textile production life-cycle. The labor-intensive industry is shifting towards the digital automatic industry which is providing a lot of opportunities and challenges. Originality/value The review explores recent textile technological advancements, emphasizing digitization and AI’s transformative role in processes and product quality enhancement. It uniquely integrates academic and industrial research, highlighting the industry’s shift towards digital automation and its impact on efficiency and sustainability.