AI-Assisted Design for Bian Embroidery Cultural and Creative Products: A Framework for Intangible Cultural Heritage Innovation

Abstract

This study explores the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into the design of Bian embroidery cultural and creative products and proposes a conceptual framework for the contemporary transformation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Existing Bian embroidery products often rely on the direct transplantation of traditional motifs and surface decoration, while systematic approaches integrating cultural element extraction, AI-assisted generation, product adaptation, and evaluation remain limited. To address this gap, the study analyses the visual and cultural characteristics of Bian embroidery in terms of subject matter, colour, stitch techniques, motifs, and cultural meanings and organises these characteristics within an AI-assisted design process. A four-stage framework is proposed, comprising Cultural Element Extraction, Cultural Element Translation and AI-Assisted Generation, Product Application and Design Refinement, and a Proposed Evaluation and Feedback Mechanism. The framework is further illustrated through a design demonstration showing how selected Bian embroidery characteristics can be translated into AI-readable design information, developed through generative visual exploration, and subsequently adapted to contemporary cultural and creative products. Rather than treating AI as a substitute for traditional craftsmanship, the framework positions generative AI as an exploratory and supportive design tool. The proposed evaluation mechanism combines expert assessment with supplementary image-based similarity measures and is intended for future empirical validation. Overall, the framework provides a structured methodological approach to the AI-assisted transformation and contemporary design application of Bian embroidery and related intangible cultural heritage resources.