External funding successes
Projects
Determining the potential of RFID clothing tagging: a consultancy project
This consultancy project investigated consumer engagement with digital tagging of clothing using Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Focusing on Generation Z and Millennial consumers in the UK and US, the project was conducted for a German consumer goods company seeking robust empirical insights for promoting a more sustainable future for clothing through smart washing machines. The research assesses consumers' motivations for proactively tagging their clothing with RFID labels.
Project lead
Project researchers
Dr Serkan Delice, Dr Affan Hameed, Dr Emmanuel Silva and Dr Francesca Bonetti.
Challenging Netiquette: Unpacking the impact of digital social norms on pressure to be available in work-related contexts
Dr Maxi Heitmayer and a collaborating researcher have been awarded a British Academy/Leverhulme Small Grant to investigate the causes of pressures in digital workplaces. Their research will focus on Digital social norms (DSNs)—commonly known as ‘Netiquette’—which are the unwritten rules governing behaviour in digital interactions. These norms shape our tacit understanding for conduct in various online contexts.
Project lead
Intellectual Property Creation and Innovation within Fashion Design and Manufacturing Software: Proof of Concept Funding
Eleanor Rockett and xyz.exchange secured funding from UAL Enterprise and Commercialisation for a proof-of-concept project. They developed a commercial spin-out of their academic software for intellectual property capture, collaboration, and circular manufacturing. The project aimed to discover new methods for fostering enhanced circular and entrepreneurial outcomes for students, leveraging new technologies to democratize IP creation and innovation within fashion design and manufacturing. The project's outcomes were showcased at The Sustainable Angle’s Future Fabrics Expo in June 2024. The research beta-tested new production modes and integrated innovative technological protocols within established workflows.
Gen Z’s Engagement with Digital Fashion Immersive Technology
Dr Nina Van Volkinkburg and The Fashion Innovation Agency secured funding from XR Network+ Virtual Economy in the Digital Economy to investigate Gen Z consumers' preferences and behaviors regarding various levels of textural detail across different technology interfaces. In collaboration with M-XR, renowned for their advanced scanning technology, they created 3D digital fashion assets, including handbags, coats, dresses, and shorts. These assets were applied and tested across VR, MR, AR, and desktop interfaces. The insights gained from this research pave the way for future innovation in creating immersive and engaging digital fashion experiences.
Project lead
Towards a Multi Modal Methodology of Studying Human Experiences in Hybrid Spatialities
Dr. Maxi Heitmayer and an external collaborator have been awarded a British Academy Frontiers in Knowledge grant to develop new methodologies for studying human behaviour and experiences in hybrid public spaces. These environments are where technology influences and alters the use and interaction with the physical space around us and with others.
This research lays the foundation for a more integrated, interdisciplinary study of the hybridization of public spaces. It aims to enable empirically informed and just policy decisions to ensure equal participation in these spaces. Additionally, it focuses on designing shared public infrastructure that allows individuals to live their lives and interact with each other in meaningful and fluid ways.