Theses and Dissertations

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Donor decision-making, motivations, and meaning-making in the context of a historic fashion and textiles museum on a university campus: a case study
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Benjamin, Brooklyn, author; Paff, Jennifer, advisor; Hyllegard, Karen, committee member; Williams, Elizabeth, committee member; Alaszkiewicz, Paula, committee member
This study explored the decision-making processes, motives, and meaning-making experiences of individuals who enacted a passive donation of objects to a historic fashion and textiles museum on a university campus. The work was informed by theory on the extended self and extended object. I adopted an exploratory, qualitative case study methodology to collect in- depth interviews from 13 donors. The major contribution of this study is a grounded theory model illuminating the Decision-Making Process to Donate Objects to a University Historic Fashion and Textiles Museum. Unique to the decision-making model developed for the present study are the incorporation of the meaning of the object to the overall decision-making process and the identification of motives specific to the donation of historic fashion and textiles objects (e.g., Educational and Relational Motives). The work also highlights the way in which participants extended their sense of self and identity through object donations to the Museum.
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Development and characterizations of mycelium-based composites
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Davis, Morgan N., author; Li, Yan Vivian, advisor; Morris, Kristen, committee member; Stewart, Jane, committee member
The current materials economy produces linear materials without regard to their end of life. As the demand for these materials rises, the demand for a new textile economy increases: regenerative by design, minimizing resource input, and waste systems. Mycelium-based composites (MBC) is a lightweight biodegradable material, with good thermal insulation, fire resistance, and acoustic attenuation. The role of MBC lies at a crossroads between biology and design, where designers incorporate biological principles and need to understand the mechanisms of material growth. The study's specific aims include the evaluation of the chemical, mechanical, and physical properties of MBC developed in various conditions and nutrient substrates. Essential to this process is the cultivation of the mycelium, where careful considerations of fungal species, nutrient substrate, and growing parameters are critical. A component of the first critical factor emerges: verification of the fungal DNA. The nutrient substrate hemp fabric demonstrates great compatibility, with the fungal species Pleurotus fossulatus, as it has the largest hyphae diameter, and offers solutions to incorporate waste. In contrast to the strong hydrophilic nature inherent in many natural cellose, mycelium exhibits hydrophobic properties, a critical feature in terms of product implication. The results provide insight for the future design and optimization of mycelium-based composites for product development innovation.
Open Access
An examination of participation in sneaker culture: consumer motivations and responses to co-branding between luxury apparel and athletic shoe brands - Louis Vuitton and Nike
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2023) Shin, Donghoon, author; Hyllegard, Karen, advisor; Ogle, Jennifer, committee member; Chai, DaeSeok, committee member
This thesis investigated the phenomenon of 'sneaker culture' influence on the contemporary fashion market by examining consumer perspectives and their motivations for engaging in this subculture and by exploring their responses to the collaborative marketing strategy called co-branding. This research examined the co-branding of luxury apparel brands and athletic shoe/sportswear brands through the collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Nike. This research was guided by the lens of fandom and participatory culture, and it employed an inductive approach to draw general conclusions from specific observations (i.e., interviews). This study was conducted by interviewing 'sneakerheads' who were expected to be particularly interested in this collaboration between luxury and athletic brands. Through a qualitative research method, this study provides insight into consumers' (i.e., sneakerheads) perceptions of the value of this type of co-branding. Findings also provide insights for fashion companies to understand the specific motivations of consumers who participate in sneaker culture and their behavior/response (i.e., consumer attitudes and purchase intentions) to co-branding between luxury brands and athletic shoe/sportswear brands.
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A framework to guide eco-cultural interior design in adaptive reuse
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2023) Schmidt, Alea, author; Malinin, Laura, advisor; Kwon, Jain, advisor; Valdes Vasquez, Rodolfo, committee member
As the current efforts of sustainability in the built environment shift in focus from the environment to including aspects of health and wellbeing, equity, diversity, and inclusion, there is a need to understand how these aspects connect to the concept of eco-cultural design and the role of the interior designer. This qualitative study explores the ways in which interior design has potential to contribute to eco-cultural design especially within the context of adaptive reuse. The conceptual framework for this study is informed by the concept of eco-cultural design and the coinciding assessment framework proposed by Qtaishat et al. (2020). The indicators within the main categories of the original framework were adjusted to focus on aspects that relate specifically to interior design. Purposive sampling and the content analysis of design firm websites were used to identify professionals working at the intersection of adaptive reuse, interior design, and sustainability. Nine professionals participated in open-ended, semi-structured interviews to discuss their lived experiences with interior design and adaptive reuse and how sustainability and aspects of ecocultural design are understood in the industry. The qualitative coding techniques of open coding and a priori themes were used to explore the applicability of the conceptual framework for practice, and the ways in which the roles of the interior designer relate to the different categories of eco-cultural design. The participants' experiences and insights informed the refinement of the conceptual framework toward a guideline for Eco-Cultural Interior Design, including the roles interior design professionals might play from pre-design through project administration. The findings suggest there are already efforts being made in the industry regarding aspects of eco-cultural design. However, due to the overwhelming number of terms and concepts that exist relating to sustainability, interior designers lack the language to clearly communicate with clients the value of considering aspects of eco-cultural design. The findings also suggest that the framework is more impactful when used to guide interior designers as they move through the design process, rather than as another building rating system. Instead, it may be better used to provoke critical thought regarding how to consider all dimensions of sustainability during interior design and adaptive reuse. In addition, there is potential for interior designers to have the most impact on the eco-cultural sustainability in the pre-design phases of the design process, demonstrating the importance of involving them from the start. The main contribution of this study is therefore the development of a framework to guide eco-cultural interior design in practice.
Embargo
Examining knowledge transfer between design research and healthcare design practices: an interpretive comparative case study
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2023) Iedema, Alyssa, author; Malinin, Laura, advisor; Kwon, Jain, advisor; Graham, Daniel, committee member
The utilization of research to inform design decisions has been a rising topic of discussion. There is a gap between design research, how it is communicated and its accessibility, and the design industry, the ones responsible for designing and building the environments people inhabit (Huber, 2017). There have been few studies investigating how interior design practitioners are acquiring and applying research to inform their design decisions (e.g., Dickson and White, 1993; Huber, 2016b; 2017). Architecture and design firms have started to invest in developing in-house research labs in attempt to bridge the gap (Donofrio, 2013; Huber, 2016a). The purpose of this comparative case study is to explore how architecture and design firms in the United States are engaging with design research throughout the design process, including if and how engagement differs between firms with in-house research labs and those without. A total of 8 firms were studied (4 of these had in-house research labs). A content analysis of each firm's website was conducted to understand how they are describing their engagement with research to find essential themes across cases. Ten individuals, consisting of interior design practitioners and design researchers, were then interviewed to gain an understanding of research utilization from their perspective. Findings suggest that eight themes in which research is involved in the design process: 1) motivation for research 2) definition of research 3) organization of research 4) identifying knowledge 5) selecting knowledge 6) adapting knowledge 7) implementing knowledge 8) disseminating knowledge. Findings also suggest that there is an inconsistent communication and expectation of research across all firms.
Open Access
Study of mechanical and antimicrobial properties of biomimetic shark skin fabrics with different denticle size via 3D printing technology
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2022) Wen, Jiayi, author; Li, Yan Vivian, advisor; Chisholm, Sandra, committee member; Prawel, David, committee member
Previous studies have shown that biomimetic shark skin fabrics can reduce water drag and increase swimming speed. It was also known that the smaller the denticle was, the higher water drag reduction was. In nature, the size of the denticles on shark skin is between 100 μm and 500 μm. However, the minimum size of the 3D printed denticles on a biomimetic shark skin fabric previously reported was about 2mm, which was still much larger than the natural size. In this study, different sizes of denticles ranging from 0.65mm to 1.30mm were fabricated using a Form3 3D printer and Flexible80A resin, and the effect of denticle size on mechanical properties and antimicrobial properties of biomimetic shark skin fabric were evaluated for the applications in functional clothing. The results suggested that when the size of the denticle was decreased, the stiffness of the fabrics was increased. In the tensile testing, the tensile strength and the breaking elongation of the 3D printed fabric with 1.04mm denticles were largest in the tested fabrics, which was larger than those of some common fabric materials used in commercial swimwear, suggesting great potential of functional clothing applications. In addition, mechanical anisotropy was observed in the 3D printed fabrics, which is commonly seen in textile fabrics. In antimicrobial testing, the shark skin fabrics with 0.65mm and 1.04mm denticles were found to be less susceptible to bacterial attachment, suggesting good potential for functional clothing applications.
Open Access
Imparting protective properties to lyocell fabric via single and multi-functional finishing treatments
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2010) Vora, Gunjan, author; Sarkar, Ajoy, advisor; Tremblay, Kenneth, committee member; Mallette, Dawn, committee member
Lyocell is a fiber made from wood pulp cellulose. Like other cellulosic fibers, it is breathable, absorbent, very comfortable to wear, and biodegradable. Lyocell fiber is also eco-friendly and sustainable since the solvent used to manufacture the fiber is environmentally not hazardous and the manufacturing of lyocell is a closed-loop process. Lyocell has been treated a myriad of ways to enhance its value-added potential. However, no studies were found to have been done to impart protective properties such as resistance to UV-radiation and resistance to microbes. In this study, untreated lyocell fabric was analyzed for its protective properties against UV radiation and disease causing microbes. Lyocell was found to afford no protection against UV radiation and also possessed no anti-microbial activity against the three microbes investigated in this study. To improve its protective properties, lyocell was finished with UV-absorbers. To enhance its antimicrobial property, lyocell was treated with an antimicrobial agent. It was experimentally determined that a UV-absorber concentration of 2% on weight of fabric was sufficient to improve the UV properties of lyocell fabric to an excellent degree. The antimicrobial concentration for excellent antimicrobial activity was found to be 0.5% on weight of fabric. Combining several processing steps to reduce time and cost is preferred in the textile industry so the synergistic effect of UV absorber treatment and antimicrobial treatment from a multi- functional treatment bath was explored in the next phase of the study. Lyocell fabrics were treated with the optimum amount of UV-absorber and antimicrobial agent. The data showed the UV-protection of lyocell fabric was not imparted negatively when a multi-functional bath was employed. Similarly, the antimicrobial efficiency was not reduced on multi-functional finishing treatment. Further, the finishing treatments, both single and multi-functional were durable to laundering and to light exposure.
Open Access
If I customize it, I will keep it longer? Segmenting mass customization consumers through the sustainability lens
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2021) Shaver, Jessica R., author; Yan, Ruoh-Nan, advisor; Diddi, Sonali, committee member; Niemiec, Rebecca, committee member
Mass customization (MC) refers to the manufacture of customized products on a mass basis at prices similar to mass-produced (MP) goods (Davis, 1996). Mass customized apparel (MCA) products can better address consumer needs through the consumer-centric process (Yang, Kincade & Chen-Yu, 2015). Additionally, MCA has been heralded for its ability to reduce waste throughout the supply chain, most notably through the elimination of deadstock (e.g., Boër, Redaelli, Boër, & Gatti, 2018), and is suggested to offer the potential for more sustainable consumer behavior through an emotional bond formed with the customized product (Mugge, Schoormans, & Schifferstein, 2009) that may lead to increased product longevity. The purpose of this thesis was to explore the current MCA consumer market and investigate potential connections among MCA consumer segments regarding sustainability related variables. Specifically, this study utilized actual MCA consumers' purchase patterns (i.e. frequency of MCA purchase, amount of MCA purchase, and duration of MCA purchase behavior) to identify consumer segments and profile this emerging market to better understand their MCA-specific motivations for MCA purchase and satisfaction with the MCA product and customization experience as well as demographic variables (i.e., income, education, and body mass index (BMI)). Additionally, this study aimed to uncover to what extent they may display sustainability-related variables (i.e., emotional product attachment and environmental attitudes) and behaviors (i.e., sustainable apparel behaviors and general sustainable behavior). To address this purpose, an online consumer survey was distributed in Spring 2019, and 318 usable responses were analyzed using the segmentation framework. Two clusters were identified who differed mainly on the duration of their MCA purchase behaviors; new customizers (n = 243) had an average of 2 years of experience as MCA consumers, while experienced customizers (n =75) had on average 9 years of experience purchasing MCA. T-test comparison, multiple regression, and correlation analyses were conducted to explore the characteristics of the clusters. Findings showed a general trend among experienced customizers for stronger motivations and satisfaction, as well as increased environmental attitudes, and more sustainable apparel behaviors and general sustainable behaviors. Interestingly, regression analysis revealed participants' who were interested in making sustainable pre-purchase apparel decisions, such as purchasing apparel made of organic materials were likely to be less satisfied with the MCA products and experience. Both new and experienced customizers reported intentions of keeping MCA products longer than MP apparel, and a significant difference between clusters found experienced customizers intended to keep their MCA product a year longer than new customizers; suggesting MCA maybe a sustainable alternative for consumers. This thesis concludes with a discussion of theoretical and managerial implications as well as suggestions for future research for this promising topic.
Open Access
Mechanical and antimicrobial performance analysis of a shark skin bio-mimicked fabric swatch via 3D printing
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2020) Purandare, Saloni Prasanna, author; Li, Yan Vivian, advisor; Yan, Ruoh-Nan, committee member; Prawel, David, committee member
Biomimicry is a long-practiced concept concerned with development of products with nature as the source of inspiration. Bio mimicked textiles is a branch of textiles wherein textile products are developed to replicate desirable elements of nature such as lotus-leaf inspired water repellent fabric, high-strength spider silk inspired by the spider web and shark skin biomimicry. The scaled texture on shark skin, known as riblet effect, exhibits drag reduction and antimicrobial properties. Accurate biomimicry of shark skin is an on-going continual process This study is concerned with 3D printing bio mimicked fabric swatches by replication of riblet effect followed by characterization of the developed fabric swatches. The swatches were printed using Autodesk Ember photopolymer 3D printer, allowing printing of minutely detailed denticles in the base. The materials used were polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS) and polyurethane (PU) material. PU allowed creation of rigid tough denticles embedded in flexible and soft base, indicating as a better raw material to 3D print bio-mimicked swatches for functional clothing. The PU swatches were studied further in morphological, mechanical, and antimicrobial analysis. The morphological analysis resulted into optical images exhibiting the developed texture resembling characteristic riblet effect of shark skin. Mechanical analysis in terms of tensile stress testing exhibited stronger and tougher fabric samples with thick (1.05mm) base in comparison with those having thin (0.75mm) base. Also, the mechanical analysis indicated good elastomeric properties for the fabric swatches suggesting potential in functional clothing. Lastly, the antimicrobial test conducted exhibited reduced antimicrobial growth for samples with riblet texture against untextured samples, copper foil as well as aluminum foil thus exhibiting potential use of the textured fabric swatches as non-toxic antimicrobial material. Shark skin biomimicry through riblet effect replication has been studied majorly for hydrodynamic properties while shark skin inspired material intended for antimicrobial properties such as by Sharklet® technology is not concerned with riblet effect replication. Thus, to our best knowledge study focusing on mechanical and antimicrobial analysis of shark skin biomimicry through replication of riblet effect is missing. This study will help determine potential of shark skin biomimicry by replication of riblet effect in functional clothing, through mechanical and antimicrobial analysis.
Open Access
Custom Paralympic shooting jacket: a single-case product development project
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2020) Hobbs, Kayna, author; Morris, Kristen, advisor; Kissell, Kevin, committee member; Kreston, Rosemary, committee member
The goal of this research was to develop a custom regulation jacket for a Paralympic Shooting athlete. A six-step design process was implemented to understand the design needs of a Paralympic shooting athlete in their shooting jacket. Data were collected through qualitative research methods in a single-case study design. The participant's design needs in their shooting jacket were framed through Lamb and Kallal's (1992) FEA (functional, expressive, aesthetic) Consumer Needs Model. Three research questions that guided this study were, RQ1) How can weighing of FEA needs, defining design insights, and communication between designer and end user aid in creating high-satisfaction custom sportswear for the single-case participant? RQ2) How can utilization of 3D body scanning and virtual garment simulation technology improve the custom sportswear development process and create high-satisfaction in the end product for the single-case participant? And RQ3) How do functional, expressive, and aesthetic needs (FEA needs) inform the single-case participant's Paralympic Shooting jacket preferences and desires? To address these questions, the researcher used anthropometric body measurements, 3D body scanning, virtual garment simulation technology, and half-scale dress forms to develop the custom shooting jacket throughout the design process. Overall, this research contributes to an understanding of factors and processes needed to develop clothing or sportswear for disabled athletes. The main outcomes of this research are a regulation Paralympic shooting jacket and a new model of apparel needs for disabled athletes called the FEA Model for Disabled Athletes. The model advances theory in the field of apparel design and is a step in the direction of understanding the clothing needs of disabled athletes. This study provides industry and research professionals with best practices when working with these populations and products.
Open Access
Bacterial culture components activating colorimetric transition in polydiacetylene nanofiber composites
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2020) Bhattacharjee, Abhishek, author; Li, Yan Vivian, advisor; Gentry-Weeks, Claudia, committee member; Diddi, Sonali, committee member
Polydiacetylene (PDA) demonstrates colorimetric transition behaviors due to conformational changes in π conjugated backbone of PDA macromolecules at external stimuli of bacteria, suggesting potential applications in biosensors. However, the bacterial culture components activating colorimetric transition in PDAs are still undetermined due to the complexity of the bacterial system. In this study, PU-PDA nanofiber composite was prepared via electrospinning and tested with components from Escherichia coli (E. coli) culture including supernatant fluid, cell pellet, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). When PU-PDA nanofiber was tested with supernatant fluid, it changed color from blue to red. In contrast, bacterial cell pellets could not induce a color change, suggesting the color-changing substances (CCS) are not cell-associated, rather can be found in the spent media (supernatant fluid) generated by E. coli during its growth phase. Intense color change in the nanofiber by the autoclaved supernatant fluid indicated that the CCS may not be a protein, DNA, or RNA since they denature in high heat and pressure from the autoclaving process. With an increase in storage time of the supernatant fluid, the color-changing rate was reduced significantly, suggesting a degradation in CCS with time. Free EPS from the supernatant fluid could induce a color change in the nanofibers, which confirmed that EPS contains the CCS. No significant changes were found in the morphology of PU-PDA nanofibers before and after the exposure of E. coli culture components. Critical bacterial concentration (CBC) was found approximately 9 × 108 CFU/ml, suggesting the efficiency of the PU-PDA nanofiber composite to be used as a biosensor. Additionally, solvatochromism of the nanofiber composite was investigated using organic solvents commonly used in extracting bacterial culture components. The results from this study provided a guideline for using PU-PDA nanofiber composite as a biosensor in point-of-care applications.
Open Access
Third place: a qualitative examination of socialization and community building in CCRCs
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2020) Ellis, Jared Paul, author; Malinin, Laura, advisor; Scolere, Leah, advisor; Cross, Jeni, committee member
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) continue to be a popular option for senior living. Social activity is invariably tied to improved health trajectories and decreased loneliness but is often challenging for persons who may not have transportation available pointing at designers and architects to create quality social spaces within the CCRC itself. The concept of Oldenburg's third place and the breadth of literature tied to it provides a link between the built environment and network sociology informing this study. This case study utilized a spatial inventory, resident interviews and direct observations to investigate 1) whether CCRCs are utilizing Evidence-based design (EBD), 2) if there are naturally occurring or purpose-build third places internal to the community, and 3) whether these spaces were supporting socialization for the residents. While findings indicated limited use of EBD principals, the use of administrative policy lead to unique social leveling in the CCRC's purpose-built third place.
Open Access
The effects of codesign on consumer acceptance of a wearable technology using the Lilypad Arduino
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Rogers, Kristen Emily, author; Park, Juyeon, advisor; Yan, Ruoh-Nan, committee member; Tornatzky, Cyane, committee member
Wearable technology is increasing in popularity, but research shows that significant challenges still exist in user acceptance. Meanwhile, new tools and design and development contexts are becoming accessible to the average consumer, through which they may more actively engage in the creation of products. This experimental study utilized a mixed-method approach to examine the effect of a codesign context on user acceptance of a wearable technology using the open-source wearable microcontroller, the Lilypad Arduino. Data were collected via two codesign sessions held for 17 adult participants in a western region of the United States; each session comprised a hands-on codesign activity, focus group discussion, and pre- and post-assessment surveys. Direct content analysis was conducted based on the extended Technology Acceptance Model (perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and perceived playfulness) as a theoretical framework upon which qualitative data from focus group discussions were arranged; paired-samples comparison analyses were conducted for survey data. Results from both the quantitative and qualitative data revealed that the codesign activity prompted a positive increase in all variables tested; implications are discussed as well as recommendations for further study.
Open Access
Modernization and cultural identity: the case of Ri-Bhoi women handloom weavers
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Dias, Rebecca Maria, author; Diddi, Sonali, advisor; Ogle, Jennifer P., committee member; Knowles, Katie, committee member; Snodgrass, Jeffrey, committee member
The handloom industry is a vital part of the rural and semi-rural population of North East Region of India (NERI) providing these populations with a source of employment. Hand woven textiles are deeply associated with the culture of NERI weavers who practice the art of cloth making. In recent years, the traditional handloom industry has seen tremendous growth and change through initiatives intended to modernize the industry. This evolution of the handloom industry due to modernization has impacted the people involved and their relationship to weaving. The purpose of this study was to understand how modernization has changed or evolved the traditional handloom industry of Ri-Bhoi, a district in NERI, and how women weavers in the Ri-Bhoi develop a sense of identity through weaving. The foundation of this research is based on cultural identity and modernization theories that suggest the conversion of traditional values to modern values, or the persistence of traditional values (Inglehart & Baker, 2000). A qualitative ethnographic approach was used, and data were collected from four villages in Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya, a north eastern state in India, using participant observation, interview, and field notes and journaling. The data were analyzed using open coding to develop a coding guide and to identify overarching themes. Findings from the analysis showed a change in the traditional handloom industry mainly in terms of loom technology and yarn type. Analysis revealed a grounded theory model that presents five significant themes: (a) exchange of knowledge; (b) social support; (c) role of weaving in everyday life; (d) symbolizing tribe and culture; and (e) joy, pride and happiness that contributed towards developing a cultural identity for women weavers. The data also revealed that women weavers adapted their traditional ideals related to weaving to preserve and sustain their handloom industry and textiles to meet with social, economic, and political changes due to modernization. Understanding weavers' perception of change is vital in preserving cultural heritage. Implications of the study and future directions are discussed.
Open Access
Millennial consumers' responses to advertising for a transformational apparel product
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Sylvester, Rebecca, author; Hyllegard, Karen, advisor; Miller, Nancy, committee member; Rosecrance, John, committee member
Owing to the growth in the sportswear industry, and more specifically growth in the outdoor wear industry, companies are innovating products to find a competitive advantage over well established brands. Consumer demand for better preforming attire manufactured with consideration for the environment is driving product development and companies' commitment to more sustainable and transparent practices. One solution to the growing consumer demands is adaptable or transformational apparel. Adaptable or transformational apparel refers to apparel products designed with an ability to be manipulated to serve multiple functions beyond the normal expectations and functions of the apparel item. Members of the Millennial generation (i.e., individuals born between 1981 and 1997) are likely to spend more money on a product from a sustainable brand than from a non-sustainable brand (Bucic, Harris, & Arli, 2012; Cone Communications, 2015; The Center for Generational Kinetics, 2016; Fry, 2016). This cohort is concerned with the environment, is interested in product innovations, and has an expectation for 'cutting-edge' products. The Millennial generation is the largest generation in the U.S. population and workforce, and therefore has a high purchasing power (Fry, 2016). Based upon Millennial consumers' characteristics, this cohort was identified as an ideal target market for transformational outdoor wear apparel. Consumers' preferences for the functionality and sustainability of clothing has been examined in specific contexts; however, to date, there is limited research examining consumers' acceptance of transformational apparel for use in outdoor and sport activities. Therefore, this study examined how message framing of functionality and sustainability for product attributes influenced Millennial consumers' attitudes toward advertisements, attitudes toward brand, and purchase intentions toward a transformational apparel product. An integrated conceptual framework, which included the model of Message Framing for Brand Communication (MFBC) (Tsai, 2007) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991), informed the development of the present study. Together, these models provided a framework for examining consumers' responses to advertising messages for a transformational apparel product. Data were collected through an online survey administered through the survey firm Qualtrics. The final sample included 176 participants born between the years 1981 and 1997. The results indicated that message framing did not influence Millennial consumers' attitudes toward advertisements for a transformational textile product, however, their attitudes toward advertisements did influence Millennial consumers' attitudes toward the Loki brand. Findings from the basic model revealed that Millennial consumers' purchase intentions toward a transformational apparel product were influenced by attitudes toward the brand and subjective norm, but they were not influenced by perceived behavioral control. Furthermore, findings from an extended regression model revealed that the consumers' purchase intentions were influenced by outdoor participation, product knowledge, and attitudes toward the brand, whereas self-construal, product involvement, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control did not influence purchase intentions. The findings from this research revealed several implications for product development and marketing as well as suggestions for future research. This research has implications for the outdoor wear industry specifically with respect to apparel product development and marketing initiatives targeted to the Millennial generation.
Open Access
Beautiful connections: Maridadi Fabrics, Jack Lenor Larsen, and the East African Kanga
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2003) Logan, Trisha Green, author; Sanders, Eulanda A., advisor; Carlson, Linda, advisor; Coronel, Patricia, committee member
This research examined the Maridadi textile collection housed in the Historic Costume and Textiles Collection in the Department of Design and Merchandising at Colorado State University (CSU). The researcher hoped to develop a new understanding of Maridadi textile designs utilizing Stuart Smith's "Material History Methodology" (1985), Ann Marie Fiore and Patricia Anne Kimle's Understanding Aesthetics for the Design and Merchandising Professional (1997), and Marilyn Revell Delong's The Way We Look (1987). The textile designs were placed within the context of both design cultures from which they stem, those of Kenya and the U.S. Specific design elements such as the binary themes (DeLong, 1998) of figure-ground integrated/figure-ground separated, and determinate/ indeterminate were analyzed. Design elements also considered include mono-chromatic and chromatic colors as well as organic and geometric shapes (Fiore and Kimle, 1997). The designs were also examined by looking closely at their Material, Construction, Provenance, Function, and Value (Smith, 1985). By comparing the textile designs of the Larsen Design Studio and the kanga designs of Kenya in the late 1960s the research addressed the issue of the social time in which the Maridadi textiles were produced. A random sample of thirty-four Maridadi textiles, eleven kanga, and seventeen images of the Larsen Design Studio textiles was used in the research. The content analysis method was used in the examination of the Maridadi textiles. Three trained coders (researcher, one professor, and a graduate student) identified where on a continuum a textile artifact lands between the binary themes from DeLong (1998) and Fiore and Kimle (1997). The Smith (1985) model for studying material culture was also be used to analyze the Maridadi textiles. The traditional Kenyan textile, the kanga, and the textile designs of the Larsen Design Studio were used as comparative data. The researcher identified where each of the thirty-four textile samples landed on the continuum between the binary themes. The number of times that each continuum between the themes was landed on was calculated. After all thirty-four textile samples were analyzed by all three coders using the Smith (1985) model and compared with the textiles of the Larsen Design Studio, and the traditional textile, the kanga, by the researcher only, the information was carefully scrutinized. Themes such as specific materials, color palettes, and construction methods, were extracted from the information and grouped and restructured.
Open Access
Graduate education, research, and the interior design profession
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 1998) Lawlor, Patti J., author; Birdsong, Craig, advisor; Sheafor, Bradford W., committee member; Makela, Carole J., committee member
Irrespective of the field, all professions are made up of different components that set a standard for the discipline. These components include, but are not limited to, accreditation, examination, licensing, and research. The foundation of these components lies in the standardized esoteric body of knowledge the profession holds. The knowledge base of a profession is created, maintained, and expanded through scholarly research. When individuals have received proper training, the creation and documentation of new information can be conducted in all areas of a profession: education, business, and industry. Training to be a conductor of research is typically acquired through graduate education. The objective of this study was to ascertain perceptions of interior design practitioners concerning the components of a profession as previously listed, their importance to the interior design practitioner and advantage to the profession as a whole. In addition, graduate education and research were the focus to gauge the commitment of interior design to the components of the profession. Questionnaires were mailed to companies meeting study criteria from the "100 Giants 1996'' as listed in Interior Design magazine. A 54 percent return rate was acquired. The data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, Spearman Rho correlations, and chi-squares. Analysis of the data revealed practitioners perceived an importance and advantage for each of the components of a profession, with the exception of graduate education. Practitioners had stronger perceptions of the importance and advantage of research to the profession and practitioner than they did of the importance and advantage of graduate education. Based on the findings and the review of literature, recommendations such as design firms should encourage and support the components of the profession were made. Additionally, recommendations were made for practitioners, academic programs and educators, graduate students in interior design, and professional organizations.
Open Access
Experiences of designing women: a portrait of female interior designers' job satisfaction across career-spans
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Goodnite, A. Elizabeth, author; Malinin, Laura, advisor; Ogle, Jennifer, committee member; Conroy, Samantha, committee member
The subject of job satisfaction is one of the most highly researched topics among organizational psychology (Lu, Barriball, Zhang, & While, 2012). However, only few studies have examined factors of job satisfaction among interior designers due, in part, to infancy of the profession (e.g., Hill, Hegde, & Matthews, 2014). The purpose of this study was to compose a portrait of female interior design professionals currently employed in the workplace and explored the factors impacting their perceived job satisfaction or dissatisfaction. Twelve female interior designers from three career phases (early, mid, and late career) were interviewed to gain diverse perspectives of job satisfaction. Participants were asked to draw the way they felt about their work based on Marcus' (1995) drawing elicitation method. Then interviews were performed using their drawings as a starting point for discussion, along with semi-structured questions guided by the conceptual framework developed for this study from two career phase models (AIA, 2017; Mainiero & Sullivan, 2005) and literature review. Findings suggested dynamic relationships between 1) personal-life factors; 2) work culture; 3) professional mindset; 4) relationships; and 5) resources to support creative performance at work. Participants felt greatest job satisfaction when optimal creative performance was bolstered by ideal conditions with respect to work culture, relationships, and resources when personal-life factors placed pressure on their lives. Furthermore, professional well-being seemed to be largely shaped by professional authenticity and its development through meaning-making tasks and achievements.
Open Access
Analysis of body armor fit and comfort using 3D body scanning: a case study with an industry partner
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Conroy, Brittany L. W., author; Park, Juyeon, advisor; Li, Yan, committee member; Hess, Ann Marie, committee member
This study adopted a single case study approach to evaluate the fit and comfort of a company's body armor product, and improve the design of the product. To achieve this goal, I developed a mixed-methods strategy driven by the co-design paradigm and operated it in the three-stage product development process. A total of 13 individuals including five police officers and seven company employees participated in the study as collaborators for the product evaluation and development process. The police officers –actual users of the product – were recruited as external collaborators through the case company, and asked to participate in a series of data collection methods including the pre-survey, 3D body scanning, occupational task analysis, and exit interviews to provide holistic user feedback on the product. The company employees – developers of the product – were interviewed to share the insider's perspectives as internal collaborators. As results, key areas of interaction between the body and the vest were identified during Stage 1 (Problem Definition and Research), which subsequently informed the creative design and prototyping process in Stage 2 (Creative Exploration and Evaluation). During Stage 3 (Implementation), final recommendations and plans for implementation were developed with the case company. The outcome of this research is expected to benefit the case company who manufactures the body armor product, as well as police officers who wear it in the line of occupational duty, as the resulting product will offer better fit for their body and be more comfortable to wear.
Open Access
Nanofiber based smart wound dressing combined with bacteria detection and drug delivery
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Hassan, Faqrul, author; Li, Yan Vivian, advisor; Park, Juyeon, committee member; Popat, Ketul, committee member
Since the emergence of Nanotechnology in the past decades, the development and design of nanofibers demonstrated the great potential for applications in wound treatment. Proliferation of bacteria in wound site is a major challenge in combating wounds. Bio-sensing wound dressing composed of nanofibers has proven to be an effective tool in detecting bacterial presence at wound sites. Though wound dressing with antibacterial property is available but they are not quite effective in terms of bioavailability and sustained release of drugs. Biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles have been proven to increase bioavailability, encapsulation, and control release of drugs with less toxic properties. In this study, poly diacetylene (PDA)-based composite nanofibers were prepared to study the microstructure and mechanical properties, and to investigate relationship between these two. It was found that mixing polyurethane (PU) polymer with the PDA yielded better mechanical properties as PU and PDA mixed homogeneously and this helped to form large crystalline regions in the fiber microstructure. In the second part of this thesis, poly(D, Lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles were synthesized by double emulsion solvent evaporation technique to encapsulate hydrophilic gentamicin antibiotics. The effects of different formulation parameters on the particle size and structure were examined thoroughly which included copolymer ratios of PLGA, molecular weight and concentration of stabilizing agents or surfactants, volume of both aqueous and organic phase, sonication and stirring rate and time. The molecular weight and concentration of surfactants had the most impact on the size and morphology of particles. Higher molecular weight of surfactants caused agglomeration of particles. Increasing the concentration of surfactants resulted in smaller particles. PLGA particles with different morphologies were obtained where the average size ranged 300 nm to several microns.