Researchers Create Stretchable, Color-Changing Display: The Future of Wearable Screens

(Image credit- CBC) Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have created a flexible, color-changing display, which might mark a significant advancement in wearable technology. From packaging to healthcare, this flexible display has the potential to revolutionize many different industries.

Reversible Color Change Features in Real Time

The device's capabilities include real-time and reversible color changes. Claire Preston developed it as a part of her master's program in electrical and computer engineering at UBC. The exceptional stretchability of this display, which enables it to increase by up to 30% without losing any performance, is what makes it stand out. Furthermore, the team asserts that the manufacturing procedure is economical, making it a desirable option for mass application. Stretchability and optical quality constraints have been caused by the complexity of traditional stretchable display production. The UBC researchers managed to discover a solution by using electrochromic displays, which have minimal power requirements and can change color reversibly. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="954"] Image credit- EurekAlert![/caption] Preston elaborated that, "We used PEDOT:PSS, an electrochromic material that consists of a conductive polymer combined with an ionic liquid, resulting in a stretchable electrode that acts as both the electrochromic element and the ion storage layer." The actual display is translucent and has a rubber band like texture. In order to assure its longevity and prevent breaking, the researchers used a solid polymer electrolyte and a stretchable encapsulating substance called styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS). With this setup, the thin layers of PEDOT can expand without affecting how the display works.

Practical Approach

This flexible display has a wide range of possible uses. It might be incorporated into biometric monitoring systems for wearable technology, giving users real-time visual input on their vital indicators. Additionally, the display may be used in robotics to help robots communicate with people more naturally by showing information on their "skin," according to senior author Dr. John Madden, an electrical and computer engineering professor who supervised the project. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image credit- CBC News[/caption] The researchers went on to say that this technology has a lot of appeal for disposable applications because of its low power consumption and affordability. The real-time visual feedback offered by this display has considerable advantages for medical indicator patches and smart packing labels for fragile goods. Additionally, this technology might be used by the fashion sector to dynamically change the color of apparel items like coats and hats, adding an alluring touch of personalization. Dr. John Madden, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at UBC and senior author of the research, thinks that this innovation puts us closer to flexible and elastic screens even if more work needs to be done to incorporate this novel gadget into everyday products. Although more work needs to be done to integrate this technology into commonplace products, Madden stated in a statement that it puts us "one step closer to a future where flexible and stretchable displays are a common part of our daily lives." Meanwhile, the team's research was released in the ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces journal. Also read: Humane Unveils AI Pin, a Wearable AI Device that Aims to Replace Your Smartphone