Exploration of the theories and methods that influence the assessment of physical, cognitive, social, and psychological human factors, and the analysis of user needs with application to designed products and systems that interact with a human user or the human body. This course is an introductory overview to the theories and concepts of Human Factors and their application through the methods of User-Centered Design. Typically, the class is comprised of students from a wide variety of disciplines and backgrounds. Course material is explored through readings, lectures, discussions, case studies, and course projects.

This class uses an engineering design process to analyze and meet the functional needs of specific user groups. We will be designing clothing that protects users from environmental conditions, and that facilitates and/or expands body function and movement. Physical principles of clothing and human anatomy are explored. A theoretical understanding of human anatomy and movement is applied through advanced patterning techniques for a variety of body types, work environments, and activities. Class projects are often conducted with an outside partner. Project work focuses on developing skills in collecting, synthesizing (in written and visual form) and using evidence to inform the design of a solution to a user-centered problem. Written documentation, developmental prototypes, and final design solutions are produced and evaluated.

Product development theories/methods as applied in many design fields. Emphasizes retail setting. Seminar format discussion, case studies, observation/critique of hands-on industry product development project.

Supervised work experience relating activity in business, industry, or government to student's area of study. Integrative paper or project may be required. prereq: Completion of at least one-half of professional sequence, plan submitted and approved in advance by adviser and internship supervisor, written consent of faculty supervisor, instr consent

Comprehensive attention to ergonomics and anthropometric variance across populations is crucial to the advancement of wearable products and apparel. This course will examine the relationship between body size, body shape, product design, sizing systems, and fit. Students will examine existing sizing systems and develop new sizing systems using anthropometric data, body scan technology, and OptiTex 3D patternmaking software. A special focus will be given to examining innovative tools that encourage the merging of anthropometrics and design throughout the design process. This class is suitable for students across a variety of disciplines.

Exploration of technologies, theories, and best practices for designing and developing systems incorporating wearable technology. This lecture-based class will introduce students to the physical principles that underlie many wearable technology subsystems, will discuss design approaches that conscientiously consider user experience and wearability in systems design. This course is an introductory course that focuses on wearable technology concepts blending User-Centered Design with Engineering Systems development. It is intended to be approachable for students with a wide variety of interests and backgrounds. Course material is explored through readings, lectures, discussions, and course projects. Optional laboratory course (DES.5902) provides hands-on opportunities to put these principles into practice.

Laboratory session to develop skills in building and testing wearable technology systems. The student must be enrolled concurrently with DES 5901 (Principles of Wearable Technology). Students will be provided opportunities for hands-on prototyping to gain a practical appreciation for the challenges related to wearable systems development. Course material is explored through laboratory sessions and course projects.