Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Material Matters is a Research Centre at Emily Carr University of Art + Design actively exploring throughdesign led inquiry, the material science in 3D printing, its pragmatic potential, and the ethical and ecologicalramifications of the technology. This project is a new applied research partnership between Emily CarrUniversity and Agility Technologies, a Canadian company who specializes in developing wearablecommunications hardware for use in the field. The research project will investigate the use of digital andanalogue methods of design towards the development of a wearable device enclosure that will provide reliablecommunications in adverse environmental conditions. Our investigation will produce iterative aesthetic designsand 3D printable models that will be analyzed for form and function. Researchers will investigate newapplications for product development and manufacturing through ideation and the integration of open sourcehardware platforms and conventional rapid prototyping technologies. Free and Open Source hardware and DIYprototyping platforms complement the established technologies in Additive Manufacturing, enablingcost-effective innovation for individual Makers and Canadian Enterprises, seeding a broad base of expertise.3D printing technology serves as a model platform for re-skilling material production and manufacturing inNorth America. The core benefits of this research and development project will include: a series ofrecommendations and guidelines for Agility Technologies' product design development and evaluation; andrecommendations for cost-effective material sourcing for agile supply chain development.