Although the technology is fairly new, Philips Research has made amazing progress in integrating Lumalive fabrics into garments that can be worn by people. Lumalive fabrics are made of flexible arrays of colored light-emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated into the fabric so that the fabric remains soft and flexible. With these fabrics, it’s possible to create clothing that carry dynamic messages, graphics, or multicolored surfaces. These fabrics can even be used in drapes, cushions, or sofa coverings!

Jackets, featuring 200 mm x 200 mm panels of Lumalive fabrics, are comfortable to wear and can light up to display vivid colored patterns, logos, short text messages, or even full color animations. For the parts that can’t be easily washed – such as the batteries and control electronics, Philips Research has designed a simple disconnect-reconnect socket into the garment. Even the light emitting layer of the jacket can be easily removed and refitted.

Click on the movie screen on the right to watch a Youtube clip of these amazing LED shirts!

Source: Philips illuminates IFA 2006 with production-ready Lumalive textile garments