New technology and clothing design: effects of new technology on design in clothing manufacture and the potential problems of colleges training designers for an industry undergoing fundamental changes

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Aldrich, W.M., 1990. New technology and clothing design: effects of new technology on design in clothing manufacture and the potential problems of colleges training designers for an industry undergoing fundamental changes. PhD, Nottingham Trent University.

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Abstract

The research explores the rationale and the implications of an imposed curriculum innovation, the introduction of computer aided design, (CAD), into fashion design courses. The work is a singular, personal exploration of the phenomenon CAD; it is seeking explanations and does not attempt to offer generalisations or theories.

The study examines theories and ideas of creativity, and the process of design in the production of fashion garments. Philosophical, psychological and physiological ideas and attitudes that cluster around the concept 'design' are examined. The transient nature of knowledge assumes increasing importance as the study progresses.

The field work covered three major areas. First, a survey of CAD systems and their use in the British clothing industry was undertaken in 1985. This provided a 'snapshot' of aims and attitudes towards CAD at that time. Contacts with the same companies in 1989 showed that some perceptions of CAD had changed. Second, studies were made of the use of CAD in the design process. The research was directed towards the activities of individual students when using CAD, with reference to their process of design, their thinking style, and their personality. Third, the possibilities of CAD were explored in a commercial design context. Theoretical and personal explorations and experiences of the use of CAD were undertaken and recorded. Design projects and artefacts were realised.

In order to extend knowledge of computer aided design, a CAD system with a differing set of priorities from established commercial systems was developed. This was done in co-operation with a commercial software house. Concept II Research; the software programme ORMUS-FASHION was created. The system was used in the field studies with students, and for personal design work.

The research offers new insights into the accessibility of CAD to the fashion/textile designer, regardless of his or her technological knowledge. It demonstrates that CAD is not necessarily a preserve of the logical mind. The effective use of CAD in the Fashion Industry is related to a wider set of human characteristics, motives and changing processes of creative thought; and these are, of course, very often illogical.

It is a case study which shows knowledge being selectively changed, intentionally changed, individually changed, collectively changed, experientially changed, unconsciously changed, inexplicably changed, continually changed. There is no access to things as they are.

Item Type:

Thesis

Creators:

Aldrich, W.M.

Date:

1990

ISBN:

9781369316803

Identifiers: