Redycler: Daily Outfit Texture Fabrication Appliance Using Re-Programmable Dyes

TL;DR

Redycler is a speculative home appliance concept that uses re-programmable photochromic dyes activated by UV and visible light to enable users to customize and revitalize textiles, promoting sustainable fashion and personal style.

Contribution

This paper introduces a novel appliance concept utilizing re-programmable dyes for textile customization, integrating photochromic technology into home fabric modification.

Findings

Conceptual design of a home textile modification appliance

Analysis of user interaction and sustainability benefits

Discussion of integration challenges and personal style impact

Abstract

We present a speculative design for a novel appliance for future fabrication in the home to revitalize textiles using re-programmable multi-color textures. Utilizing colored photochromic dyes activated by ultraviolet (UV) light, we can selectively deactivate hues using complementary colors in visible light to result in the final desired dye pattern. Our proposed appliance would automate this process within a box placed in the bedroom. We envision a future where people are able to transform old apparel into unique and fashionable pieces of clothing. We discuss how the user would interact with the appliance and how this device elongates the life-cycle of clothing through modification. We also outline the central issues to integrate such a concept into the home. Finally, we analyze how this device fits into personal modification trends in HCI to show how this device could change existing conceptions around sustainable fashion and personal style.