AiDLab develops AI-powered color-shifting textiles to reduce textile waste
A research team of Hong Kong-based Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab) has developed a colour-changing textile embedded with a tiny camera and making use of artificial intelligence. This innovative technology has the potential to significantly reduce clothing waste by offering consumers a wider range of colour choices.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has taken off in a number of industries, with the potential to upend companies through innovative technology, more efficient operational processes, and access to industry and consumer insights that could give them a competitive advantage. Fashion waste has many different and significant effects. Garbage disposal of clothing in landfills causes pollution of the soil and water, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the manufacturing of textiles uses a lot of energy, water, and chemicals, which further depletes natural resources and increases pollution.
The fashion business produces up to 100 billion clothes annually.And every year, landfills get up to 92 million tons of clothes.Globally, only 20% of textiles are collected for recycling or reuse.Plastic really makes up about 60% of all garment materials. The US generates just over 17 million tons of textile MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) per year, according to the most recent EPA data.That is around 112lb per person, according to the latest census statistics.In the US, 66% of all unwanted clothes and textiles are landfilled.Less than 15% are recycled. The rest (19%) are burned.
This AI integration with the futureproff modules can effectively try to reduce fashion waste and environmental clutter.
With a few simple movements, consumers will be able to effortlessly change the color of their clothing in the future, promoting sustainability by increasing the usefulness and lifespan of wardrobe pieces. The material, which is made of strands derived from textiles and polymeric optical fibers (POFs), has the amazing capacity to light up in a variety of hues. A thumbs-up in front of the fabric, for example, causes it to appear vivid deep blue; a heart shape causes it to appear pretty pink. An “OK” sign produces a soothing green glow in a similar manner.
Not only may users alter the hue of predetermined motions, but they can also do it through a smartphone app. The camera’s ability to recognize and react appropriately to each user’s motions is made possible in large part by artificial intelligence algorithms.
The head of the Polytechnic University’s School of Fashion and Textiles research team, Professor Jeanne Tan, emphasizes the POFs’ recyclable nature. These fibers, which are made of polymethyl methacrylate, are easily removed from the textile’s yarn structure, making recycling procedures more effective. This emphasis on recyclable materials is in line with textile technology’s rising emphasis on sustainability.
According to Professor Jeanne Tan of AiDLab, the fabric also has a pleasant hand feel and a soft, comfortable texture that is similar to traditional knitted materials. The effective soft feel of the fabric is important for the longer use of the product with retaining a higher value proposition.
Apart from the stated benefit about environmental hazard minimization, these innovative textiles can also be used in several other major areas for a minimalistic standpoint. A distinctive and dynamic experience is provided by the ability for users to change the color or pattern of their clothes or accessories to fit their mood, preferred look, or the situation.
As an example, they can function as temperature indicators, warning wearers of changes in their environment. They can be used in healthcare to regulate the temperature in medical garments or to monitor wounds. Color-changing textiles provide a unique selling proposition and a means for businesses and designers to set their products apart in a crowded market. They have the power to draw in customers, pique their interest, and produce unforgettable moments. Engaging design experiences are made possible by these textiles. Users can actively interact with the cloth by adjusting its color or pattern in real-time via embedded sensors or control systems, encouraging creativity and engagement.
With hopes of going public, AiDLab sees a time when this cutting-edge technology is available to a larger audience. The technology is currently on display in exhibits at a number of locations in Hong Kong, including malls. It is progressing toward useful uses that have the potential to completely change how we engage with and view textiles in our daily lives. Although there has always been debate over the application of AI in creative industries like textiles, it is crucial to approach these breakthroughs cautiously and balance any potential drawbacks against their advantages.
AiDLab envisions a day when this state-of-the-art technology will be accessible to a wider audience, with the goal of going public. Currently, the technology is on show at exhibits at several Hong Kong locales, including shopping centers. It is progressing toward useful uses that have the potential to completely change how we engage with and view textiles in our daily lives. Although there has always been debate over the application of AI in creative industries like textiles, it is crucial to approach these breakthroughs cautiously and balance any potential drawbacks against their advantages.
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