Papers

Sustainable Bio-Leather Innovation from Organic Waste for Automotive Applications 

The innovation of bio-leather from waste flower material presents a sustainable alternative to traditional leather, aligning with eco-conscious design principles. Debabrata Pal's project, developed as a proposal for Tata Motors Bio-Material Lab, focuses on transforming organic waste such as discarded flowers, aloe vera, banana peel, and orange peel into a versatile bio-material. The process utilizes gelatin, a natural ingredient, as a binding agent to create a durable and pliable leather substitute.

Further enhancing the eco-friendly approach, the project incorporates natural coloring agents derived from leaves, flowers, and roots, eliminating the need for synthetic dyes and minimizing environmental impact. The result is a range of biodegradable and aesthetically pleasing bio-leather materials suitable for automotive interiors.

This innovative material has garnered significant interest for application in Tata Motors' vehicles, including models like Harrier, Altroz, and Abhinya. The project not only exemplifies the potential of sustainable design in the automotive sector but also highlights the creative repurposing of organic waste, contributing to a circular economy and reducing the ecological footprint of industrial materials.

Empower Mobility – Designing for Tactile Accessibility

This project explores innovative design solutions aimed at enhancing accessibility for deaf individuals to experience Indian classical arts through visual and tactile stimuli. The focus was on creating products that bridge the sensory gap, enabling deaf people to engage deeply with the rich traditions of Indian classical music and dance. By utilizing color and vibration as key design elements, the project developed tactile-responsive surfaces and visually expressive forms that translate the rhythm, movement, and emotions of classical performances.

The innovative use of color schemes not only conveys artistic expression but also enhances the visual understanding of music and dance patterns, while integrated vibrations offer a tangible connection to the rhythm and flow of the performances. This approach empowers deaf individuals to experience the beauty and cultural depth of Indian classical art in a way that aligns with their sensory capabilities, making it both accessible and enjoyable. Through the intersection of art, design, and accessibility, the project aims to foster a deeper, inclusive connection to cultural heritage for all audiences.