Hong Kong researchers unveil color-changing textile powered by AI gestures

A Hong Kong-based research group, the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design, has created a groundbreaking color-changing textile integrated with a miniature camera, utilizing the power of artificial intelligence. This fabric, woven with polymeric optical fibers (POFs) and textile-based yarns, can dynamically illuminate in a spectrum of hues.

The technology, pioneered by the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab), has the potential to minimize waste by offering a broader range of color choices for clothing items. Gestures like a thumbs-up trigger deep blue, a heart sign turns it pink, and an ‘OK’ sign changes it to green. Additionally, users can customize colors through a smartphone app, and AI algorithms help the camera recognize individual gestures.

Professor Jeanne Tan, leading the research team at Polytechnic University’s School of Fashion and Textiles, highlights that the polymeric optical fibers (POFs) are crafted from recyclable polymethyl methacrylate. The textile’s structure facilitates easy separation of POFs from yarns, aiding in recycling efforts.

AiDLab envisions the commercialization of this technology in the future. Presently, it is showcased in installations at various locations, including shopping malls, across Hong Kong.