Abstract
We are living through an age of rapidly developing new materials, nanotechnologies, soft, responsive, stretchable, bio-compatible, material and digital systems that can be readily coupled to new fabrication tools. This chapter describes some of the ways in which we are beginning to understand and exploit these ‘soft’ technologies. In particular the interactive role of creative design and innovative material science, linked through new bio-fabrication methodologies and a focus on compelling human-centred needs. In drawing together these methodologies, hybrid design researchers will increasingly be concerned with intangible matter, such as digital communications and the interpretation of big data which will be integrated with the tangible materiality of our bodies, clothing and the spaces around them. By contextualising this interdisciplinary relationship, we are able to speculate on how the application of bio-fabrication technology may extend the future performance and crafting of our bodies from tissue engineered ‘second skins’ to wearable soft robotics and exoskeletons.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Crafting Anatomies |
Editors | Katherine Townsend |
Place of Publication | London |
Publisher | Bloomsbury |
Number of pages | 28 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781350075474 |
Publication status | Published - 2019 |