"Physics is a function of size ..."

The aim of the research is to create a new interactive communication system by 're-cabling', fabrics for releasing fragrances in 21st century fashion design. A new development, taking inspiration from biology, conjures up Multi-Sensorial Fabrics - based around the sense of smell. Using the theory that 'Smell Is Nanotechnology' and that biology works by nano-machines, biological actions can be miniaturised (such as 'sensing' in the animal world) to create an integrated system called THE WELLNESS COLLECTION. Fragrances (and eventually medication, monitoring devices and digital information) will be actively 'pulsed' electronically through a cabling device system. This will 'mimic' the human senses and in particular the scent gland in our bodies, literally incorporated into the fabric structure. Technology will therefore be integrated in fabrics and carried in invisible clothing. The system also acts as a new vehicle for designer perfumes, reducing the application of alcohol on skin and microencapsulation.

Traditional textile design, concerns passive relating to colour and texture (and performance purposes to a certain degree). However, this research concentrates on a more active approach to textile design, introducing the living active garment as a second skin. The aim is to combine a number of contrasting areas from the Arts and Sciences. For example: -

Perfumery. Fashion Designs. Textile & Fibre Technologies. Space Age Clothing. Biosensing Techniques. 'Micro Tubing Technology. Fluid Control. 'Smart Intelligence'. Human Biology & Psychology. Human Skin, Circulation & Nervous System. Medical Textiles. Controlled Drug Delivery Systems. Alternative Therapies. Nanotechnology.

Although some might consider this project to be high risk, it is a general fact that creative and 'novel' research, originates from multi-disciplinary fields. Emphasis on this important fact must be acknowledged, throughout the thought process of the following project which is documented as a thorough 'library' of valuable research information. The science fashion approach may therefore seem very futuristic, but as technology reduces in size - this is increasingly realistic.

The thesis describes the design thinking and methodology undertaken for the study of a PhD design based research programme which has been studied over a period of three years. (The first year was undertaken on an MPhil programme with direct transfer to PhD).