CraftTech

Abstract

CraftTech investigates hybrid design frameworks and the integration of craft anadtechnology for interactive material design. Most existing research indicates a skewed emphasis on technological functionality and the finished product. Previous research on Polymeric Optical Fibres(POFs) has focused primarily on functionality and the finished product while this research focuses on the development process. This research involved international practitioners from different disciplines. The research highlights the reflective and evolutionary nature of design practice and how it contributes to the creation of smart materials. The impacts of the research are: •an understanding of how hybrid frameworks contribute to the design of smart materials and products. •established reference points within design discourse and reflecting on how practice contributes to design research The research demonstrates how a range of collaborative expertise from different disciplines can contribute to the development of hybrid products. The process requires a balance of concepts, methods, and techniques. The reflective nature of the design framework allows practitioners to refine the designs by incorporating new findings throughout their practice. The research of the fundamental hybrid design frameworks will contribute to the sustainable development of innovative smart materials. This body of work had been exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum (May,2018) and at a peer-reviewed exhibition (By Annie Warburton, Creative Director of the Crafts Council) at the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Science (March, 2018). Tan publicly lectured on this research at the Parsons School of Design, USA (July,2018), and during her design residency at Shih ChienUniversity (December, 2017). The research has been disseminated via a journal publication, two conference proceedings, three exhibitions; one exhibition book and successful competitive bidding of one PhD student for project sustainability. The research process involved experimental workshops, prototyping and interdisciplinary research with designers, architects, and engineers for more than three years.