Research on the Application of a Textile-Type Tactile Rhythm System for Advanced Saxophone Ensemble Performance

Jiaqi Zhao

Article
2026 / Volume 9 / Pages 432-447
Received 12 September 2025; Accepted 15 October 2025; Published 28 February 2026
https://doi.org/10.31881/TLR.2026.432

Abstract
This study presents the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a wearable haptic system based on electronic textiles (e-textiles) for application in advanced ensemble training, specifically within a saxophone quartet context. The core of the system is a functional textile armband engineered from a stretchable and breathable double-knit fabric (85% nylon, 15% spandex) to ensure ergonomic comfort and consistent skin contact. A series of vibrotactile actuators was directly integrated into this textile substrate. Circuitry was created using silver-coated conductive yarns, which were stitched into the fabric in a pattern designed to maintain electrical integrity under mechanical strain. This fabrication resulted in a Textile-based Haptic Metronome System (THMS) that addresses the auditory masking limitations of traditional metronomes. A crossover study involving 24 saxophone players evaluated the e-textile’s performance against standard auditory metronomes (AM) and a no-metronome (NM) condition. Rhythmic accuracy and ensemble synchronization were quantified through audio analysis. Results showed that the textile-based system led to a statistically significant improvement in rhythmic accuracy, reducing mean Inter-Onset Interval (IOI) deviation by 18.5% compared to the AM (p < 0.05). The THMS also significantly enhanced ensemble synchronization and lowered perceived cognitive load. The findings confirm that functional fabrics incorporating haptic actuators provide an effective, non-invasive interface for complex rhythmic guidance, demonstrating significant potential for advanced textile structures as enabling platforms for wearable technology in specialized fields.

Keywords
e-textiles, conductive yarns, haptic interface, wearable technology