MechanicallyActuated Fashion

Abstract

“Mechanically Actuated Fashion” is a detailed report on a color changing skirt. The design is one of few that exist in the realm of mechanical fashion and is unique in that it takes human motion as input and generates a visual and physical change via mechanical actuation as output. The purpose of the color changing skirt is to demonstrate the ability to connect ergonomics and style with mechanical actuation and physical practicality. The design challenges the perception of clothing as it seamlessly combines a static and wearable garment with a functioning electronic mechanism. The skirt itself consists of fabric panels attached to moving servos which flip over when the model spins at a sufficient speed. The illusion is that the fabric has changed colors, when in reality, the skirt has essentially turned itself inside out. The final product is a prototype, the design of which can be extrapolated to create a plethora of theoretical garments which transform human motion into visual and physical change. Additionally, the functioning prototype symbolizes the largely untapped potential that exists in the synergy of highly technical engineering projects and artistic projects- fields which are seldom combined in ways that reflect modern technological capabilities. In conclusion, the design of the color changing skirt was a success which not only serves as a technical proof of concept, but a unique union between an artistic endeavor and a mechanical design, actuated by natural human motion.