Smart Clothes Wearable Technology Research Centre  

This page introduces the research of the Smart Clothes and Wearable Technology (SCWT) group.

"By developing solutions for a specifically targeted use, we believe that new opportunities will spin-out from the initial concept, informing the development of new innovations in other areas of ‘Smart Clothes’."

This research group is a collaboration between the University of Wales, Newport and the National Centre for Product Design and Development Research (PDR) at UWIC, working to create the 'smart' clothes of the future. The project was launched in November 2004 with a workshop involving leading industry representatives, that mapped initial areas for development.

Informed by advances in the application of technical textiles, micro-technologies and new manufacturing techniques, the multi-disciplinary team is developing a shared language through collaboration in the research and development of innovative smart clothing that addresses end-user needs from technical, aesthetic and cultural view points.

Within realistic commercial constraints, the design of smart clothing must lead to products that work, look attractive and are highly usable. The design process, from the extrusion of fibres to garment disposal, is informed by end-user needs.

The group looks at the role of wearable technology and how it can be deployed to create near market prototypes, examining motivations and commercial possibilities, in areas such as sport and fitness, corporate wear and inclusive design.

In 2005 we held an international conference Wearable Futures, attended by representatives from academia and industry. With more than 60 papers, posters and performances taking place over three days.

Researchers