Reach: dynamic textile patterns for communication and social expression

ABSTRACT

In the research project 'Reach', we investigate the potential for new forms of communication and expression to be incorporated dynamically and interactively into the things to be worn everyday. Through a series of iterative prototypes, we have explored both dynamic textile materials and the interactive behaviours of clothing and accessories, which change pattern through direct physical interaction as well as through sensing context. We have developed a series of working prototypes, where dynamic textile patterns are incorporated into wearable items to reflect and make visible social and contextual behaviours, such as person-to-person communication, proximity and local weather conditions. Ultimately, we aim to develop a new dynamic language of wearable expression integrating aesthetics, pattern and computation into everyday artifacts with increased personal and cultural meaning.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)

Keywords:
ambient displays, context awareness, interaction design, smart textiles, ubiquitous computing, wearable computing