Bioinspired Design: Unforeseen Pathways to impact arising from AHRC funded Bioinspired Textiles Research
Lead Research Organisation:
University of the Arts London
Department Name: London College of Fashion
Abstract
This project addresses unforeseen pathways to impact by sharing insights and findings arising from the AHRC Leadership Fellow Bid, 'Bio-Inspired Textiles (BIT)' with new design communities and non-academic product design audiences. The overall aim of the BIT project has been 'to determine if biomimetic principles can be drawn upon: to advance sustainable textile design and production processes; to positively contribute to the circular economy; and to consequently develop an accessible framework as a template for the wider dissemination of biomimetic textile design practices as state of the art (SoA)'.
The BIT framework connects information from a comprehensive review of Biological Structural Design Elements (BSDE) led by Naleway (2015), intended for a material science audience, with processes and techniques specific to the textile disciplines using communication design and storytelling. Our research has demonstrated the value of this approach and opportunities to widen impact beyond textiles. We have also found that the BIT framework supports a model of sustainable design for resource (material and energy) efficiency, longevity and recovery (RELR). We evidence both these outcomes via the analysis of the practice of 14 funded textile makers and 38 Masters level textile students and a wider study of 134 textile practitioners. Our research has also highlighted that mind-set, lack of access to specialist knowledge and practical examples constitute the key obstacles preventing textile designers from accessing information from biology and ultimately advancing the sustainability and/or circularity of their practice.
Our communication activities designed to share our practice-based outcomes with the textile design community via social media have stimulated significant unexpected interest from the broader design community leading to a subsequent additional study of a wider range of design practices. We found significant alignment between the obstacles reported by the textile and broader design practitioner samples. The proposed activities build on the outcomes of BIT to mitigate these issues and respond to the need for practical design methodologies that enable concepts from biology to inform product and broader design disciplines. The project is guided by two key aims:
a. Share insights pertaining the BIT framework and model of sustainable design (RELR) with the product design community of practice
b. Enable stakeholders to access and investigate the positive impact of the expanded BIT renamed Bio-Inspired Design (BID) framework and sustainable design model RELR.
(Stakeholders to include representatives from product design industry, primary and secondary education (KS1-4) as well as interested public, i.e. individuals interested in a
career in design, those seeking to understand how sustainable and/or circular models can be implemented via design practice).
.
The BIT framework connects information from a comprehensive review of Biological Structural Design Elements (BSDE) led by Naleway (2015), intended for a material science audience, with processes and techniques specific to the textile disciplines using communication design and storytelling. Our research has demonstrated the value of this approach and opportunities to widen impact beyond textiles. We have also found that the BIT framework supports a model of sustainable design for resource (material and energy) efficiency, longevity and recovery (RELR). We evidence both these outcomes via the analysis of the practice of 14 funded textile makers and 38 Masters level textile students and a wider study of 134 textile practitioners. Our research has also highlighted that mind-set, lack of access to specialist knowledge and practical examples constitute the key obstacles preventing textile designers from accessing information from biology and ultimately advancing the sustainability and/or circularity of their practice.
Our communication activities designed to share our practice-based outcomes with the textile design community via social media have stimulated significant unexpected interest from the broader design community leading to a subsequent additional study of a wider range of design practices. We found significant alignment between the obstacles reported by the textile and broader design practitioner samples. The proposed activities build on the outcomes of BIT to mitigate these issues and respond to the need for practical design methodologies that enable concepts from biology to inform product and broader design disciplines. The project is guided by two key aims:
a. Share insights pertaining the BIT framework and model of sustainable design (RELR) with the product design community of practice
b. Enable stakeholders to access and investigate the positive impact of the expanded BIT renamed Bio-Inspired Design (BID) framework and sustainable design model RELR.
(Stakeholders to include representatives from product design industry, primary and secondary education (KS1-4) as well as interested public, i.e. individuals interested in a
career in design, those seeking to understand how sustainable and/or circular models can be implemented via design practice).
.
Organisations
- University of the Arts London (Lead Research Organisation)
- University of Boras (Collaboration)
- University of West Attica (Collaboration)
- Lappeenranta University of Technology (Collaboration)
- Next Technology Tecnotessile (Collaboration)
- Max Planck Society (Collaboration)
- Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) (Collaboration)
- King Juan Carlos University (Collaboration)
- University of Ghent (Collaboration)
- Design Council (Collaboration, Project Partner)
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) (Collaboration)
- Friend and Company Architects (Project Partner)
- Great Sampford Community Primary School (Project Partner)
- Crafts Council (Project Partner)
- Design and Technology Association (Project Partner)
| Title | Maker Collaboration design artefact collection |
| Description | We have complied a collection of 10 artefacts developed in collaboration with professional makers across a variety of design disciplines. This portfolio will be made available online from April 2023 |
| Type Of Art | Artefact (including digital) |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Impact | This provides a series of practice based case studies for designers and researchers seeking practical evidence of the bioinspired design framework. |
| Title | NJ flat pack table |
| Description | A collapsible stool/side table designed through the application of the Bio-Inspired Design (BID) Framework. This piece of furniture utilizes a layered material technique, combining thin wooden pieces with textiles to create collapsible joints inspired by natural structures. Unlike traditional furniture hinges, these joints allow for fluid, multi-directional movement without the need for locking mechanisms. The piece achieves a lightweight yet sturdy design capable of bearing the weight of an average person. The stool's resource-efficient construction minimizes material usage while maintaining structural integrity. |
| Type Of Art | Artefact (including digital) |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Impact | The maker presented the piece as part of the 2023 London Design fair and reported that he got a lot of interest from attendees and a potential collaboration opportunity with another exhibitor. |
| Description | Significant New Knowledge Generated: A significant finding of our study is the alignment between obstacles reported by textile practitioners and those in the broader design community. This insight underscores the universal challenges faced in integrating biological principles into design practices, hindering the meaningful implementation of biological insights for sustainable and circular practices. We addressed this gap by developing the BID (Bioinspired Design) framework and sharing it with an international cohort of designers and practitioners, who have diverse backgrounds. Our initial analysis of artifacts developed using the BID framework revealed promising shifts in design culture, particularly among micro-SMEs and craft practitioners. For instance, collaborative efforts led to the redesign of furniture items, resulting in significant reductions in both the variety and volume of materials used while enhancing functionality. Identification of Research Gaps: Our research has opened up new avenues for inquiry, particularly in exploring the integration of information-based design alongside structure-based approaches (BID currently draws on a foundation of structural design elements of biological materials). Additionally, questions have emerged regarding the scalability of the BID framework for commercial applications, indicating areas for future investigation. Enhanced Research Capability: Through specialized training in biomimetic design principles, our team has bolstered research capabilities, particularly in advancing the processing of bio-based textile materials into industrial solutions. This is crucial in light of evolving regulatory frameworks emphasizing sustainability and circularity in product design and manufacturing. |
| Exploitation Route | Designers from across the globe engaging in making/ manufacturing products will be able to learn about the bioinspired design framework and apply it to their practice. They will also be more aware of the impacts of their existing practices on the environment, the BID framework offers guidance on how to improve the impact of practice through design decision by drawing on practitioners' existing technical knowledge and skills. |
| Sectors | Creative Economy |
| URL | http://www.bioinspireddesign.com |
| Description | Our online course pilot engaged 242 design practitioners from 70 different countries, 102 of these completed over 70% of the course. 60 prepared a design proposal, using our tools, to propose innovative design ideas that embody the BID principles, we funded 10 projects and worked with each of the successful applicants to implement the proposals. The project has just finished. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2023 |
| Sector | Creative Economy |
| Impact Types | Cultural Societal |
| Description | Bioinspired Design Online Course |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to new or improved professional practice |
| Impact | Designers taking part in the piloting of the course (over 200 from 60 different countries, divers disciplines and background) reported a significant impact on their sustainable design skills, some describe it as transformative. |
| URL | http://www.bioinspireddesign.com |
| Description | Design Council |
| Organisation | Design Council |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | The DC recognizes the alignment of this research with their Design for the Planet Mission and speaks to their strategic plan to maximise the impact of their Innovation Hub. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design Council is the national strategic advisor for design and are helping us champion the value of design by providing strategic advice and access to networks. |
| Impact | None yet, these are due at the end of this year |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) |
| Country | Greece |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | King Juan Carlos University |
| Country | Spain |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | Lappeenranta University of Technology |
| Country | Finland |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | Max Planck Society |
| Department | Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology |
| Country | Germany |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | Next Technology Tecnotessile |
| Country | Italy |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | University of Boras |
| Country | Sweden |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | University of Ghent |
| Country | Belgium |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | RESILIENT VALUE CHAINS 2023 |
| Organisation | University of West Attica |
| Country | Greece |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | I was approached by this partner to participate in a Horizon Europe Call, the topic is on bioinpsired and biomimetic materials for the textile industry, and my contribution was the shaping of the research project using the bioinspired textile design framework. We have just submitted this bid and dont yet know what the outcome will be, but we have agreed to continue working with this group (not just the partner) to explore other funding opportunities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Agricultural waste stream supply, waste processing and optimization, cellulose fibre extrusion and smart textile technologies. |
| Impact | We have submitted a proposal for Innovation Action to the Call: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-TWO-STAGE on the Topic: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01-32 Proposal number: 101130559-1 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | From Boxfish to Twistbo Developing a Woven Textile Hinge Through Bio-inspired Design |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | This was an in person event, there were over 50 people in the audience. Mainly textile practice based researchers and professional designer. I supported Katheryn Walters who participated in BIT Maker collaboration as a co-author on a paper describing the work she did as part of the BIT project and how this developed her own research. This paper is due to be published soon. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | How to apply ideas from biology into your design practice |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Presentation on the initial results and outcomes from the BID follow on funding grant primarily the public online course, as part of the Design for Planet Festival 2023. We gave an online presentation, we have over 140 attendees, there was significant interest in the launch of the course scheduled for the end of Feb 2024 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Invited speaker: what can designers learn from biology |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | This was an online presentation, there were over 50 people in the audience. A very interesting discussion followed the talk. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://cfpr.uwe.ac.uk/futuretextiles2023/ |
| Description | Keynote: What can designers learn from biology |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Gave keynote at Edinburgh Science Festival 2023 event in the Planatarium. Over 100 people attended (sell out event). The audience, mostly from the general public, found the talk 'fascinating' and reported that it really made them think about the role of design and how it can be informed by biology. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Online Talk |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Introduced the Bioinspired Design project as part of the Design Council's meetup platform. Over 50 people attended online and we had alot of interest in our work and individuals wanting to be kept in the loop about the launch of our resources. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Transitioning to Net Zero: Lessons from Biology |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Keynote presentation at 92nd Textile Institute World Conference, Huddersfield, 2023. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |