Light Exploration | illuminated jacket
The purpose of this project was to explore different types of lighting techniques, LEDs, and soft switches. For this jacket, the method of backlighting was explored using LilyPad LEDs and LED strips. The soft switches that were tested include snap switches and hook and eye switches. To achieve the backlighting effect, the jacket was constructed using a black twill fabric and LEDs were placed below the shawl collar area to subtly illuminate the collar from underneath. These LEDs were connected to a LilyTiny which allowed for 4 different lighting functions. Depending on which snap was connected, the lights illuminate following a breathing, heartbeat, steady blinking, or random fading pattern. The back collar of the jacket also exhibits the backlighting effect but using an white LED strip that allowed for more brightness and a more evident type of backlighting.
Shape Memory Alloy | self-pleating shirt
The purpose of this project was to explore wearable technology concepts and incorporate them into a garment. In this shirt, the major concepts explored include light diffusion, working with shape memory alloy wire (or muscle wire), and using motion and movement. Light diffusion was achieved by incorporating LEDs underneath a panel of pleated white fabric. With regards to the shape memory alloy wire, this technology was selected due to the theme of the garment, which was inspired by origami, specifically the folding and unfolding motions of paper. The subtle movement of the wire allows for a replication of origami through pleats that can be unfolded when a current runs through the muscle wire. Following the theme of origami, the intended look of the garment is a clean, crisp, minimalistic aesthetic.
