Adobe made waves at the Adobe MAX 2023 event in Los Angeles, introducing Project Primrose, a wearable tech marvel that boasts the ability to change colors and patterns on the fly.
The brainchild of a dedicated team showcased its innovative potential, with Christine Dierk, the research scientist behind the dress, demonstrating the cutting-edge material.
"Our system leverages reflective-backed polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), an electroactive material commonly used in smart window applications. This low-power, non-emissive material can be cut to any shape, and dynamically diffuses light," Adobe said in a press statement.
All About the Project Primrose of Adobe
Adobe explained its breakthrough, saying that recent advancements in smart materials have paved the way for displays to integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
They introduced reflective light-diffuser modules for non-emissive flexible display systems, utilizing reflective-backed polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), a versatile electroactive material commonly found in smart windows.
This low-power material is not only customizable in shape but also dynamically diffuses light, opening up new avenues for design possibilities.
Additionally, the team presented exemplar artifacts - a canvas and a handbag - demonstrating the capabilities of the reflective light-diffuser modules.
They provided insights into the content creation process and outlined various interaction methods to inspire future designers in the realm of flexible displays.
Dierk showcased the transformative potential of Project Primrose. The technology embedded in sequins acts as miniature screens made from smart materials. This allows wearers to display various patterns, including real-time animations, providing a dynamic and interactive element to fashion.
Although this wearable tech is still in the proof-of-concept phase, Project Primrose shows promise across multiple industries, including military, advertising, and fashion. Adobe envisions its application not only on the runway but also in furnishings and decor, expanding the horizon of material innovation.
Furthermore, researchers describe these sequins as miniature screens constructed from smart materials, which allow wearers to display content created with Adobe Firefly, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Stock, and Adobe Illustrator.
Pattern-Changing Dress
During a video presentation at the Adobe MAX 2023 conference, Dierk demonstrated the capabilities of Project Primrose by wearing a strapless garment. Initially, it resembled a standard cocktail dress. However, with the press of a remote button, the dress's patterns immediately began to transform.
Dierk pointed out that Primrose offers the ability to instantly update one's appearance, unlike conventional clothing, which remains unchanging. She vividly demonstrated how the colors smoothly shifted from light to dark, underscoring the dynamic capabilities of this groundbreaking technology.
She further emphasized that fashion does not need to be stagnant as it can be lively and interactive. Adobe said it looks forward to a future with an expanded range of creative expression.
Watch the demonstration video below!
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