Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Material Matters is a Research Centre at Emily Carr University of Art + Design actively exploring the materialscience in 3D printing, its pragmatic potential, and the ethical and ecological ramifications of the technology.This project is a new applied research partnership between Emily Carr University and Blue Marble Labs, aCanadian company who specializes in developing wearable electronic hardware. The research project willinvestigate the use of digital and analogue methods towards the development of a wearable device that candetect ambient environmental conditions. Our investigation will produce efficient 3D printable tooling anditerative aesthetic designs 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 Blue Marble Labs' product design development and evaluation; andrecommendations for cost-effective material sourcing for agile supply chain development.