Publications

Project Primrose: Reflective Light-Diffuser Modules for Non-Emissive Flexible Display Systems

ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST)

Publication date: October 28, 2022

Christine Dierk, TJ Rhodes, Gavin Miller

Recent advances in smart materials have enabled displays to move beyond planar surfaces into the fabric of everyday life. We propose reflective light-diffuser modules for non-emissive flexible display systems. 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. We present the design & fabrication of two exemplar artifacts, a canvas and a handbag, that use the reflective light-diffuser modules. We also describe our content authoring pipeline and interaction modalities. We hope this work inspires future designers of flexible displays.

Learn More

Research Area:  Adobe Research iconHuman Computer Interaction