Toward Human-Centered Medical and Protective Textiles: Integrating Human-Centered Design and Sensitive Design

Abstract

The development of medical and protective textiles is undergoing a paradigm shift toward human-centered approaches that integrate technical performance with user well-being. This study investigates the integration of Human-Centered Design (HCD) and Sensitive Design in the development of microencapsulated textile systems intended for medical and protective applications. The research combines textile engineering, material science, and user-oriented design principles to enhance usability, comfort, and safety. An experimental framework based on microcapsule preparation, characterization, and textile fixation is presented and evaluated through HCD criteria. The results demonstrate that low-temperature processing, controlled microcapsule morphology, and user-oriented application strategies contribute to improved sensorial comfort, material stability, and suitability for prolonged human contact. This work highlights the relevance of Human-Centered Design as a methodological and ethical framework for innovation in advanced medical and protective textiles.