Robotics Observatory

Robots are entering the fashion and textile sector, from automated cutting and sewing to soft, wearable and responsive systems. The Active Materials Lab’s Robotics Observatory brings designers, scientists, engineers and industry together to look closely at that shift. We ask what robotics can offer the sector, what it could change, and how it can support more sustainable and responsible ways of making.

Building on previous observatories

The Observatory is led by Dr Enshang Shang and Allexa Pollman of London College of Fashion. They have already hosted three observatories in partnership with the National Robotarium in Edinburgh, creating a space where fashion and robotics communities can share knowledge, test ideas and identify shared challenges. This new stream builds on that work and links it to the Lab’s research on active and bioinspired materials.

Our Current Focus

Automation in design, manufacturing and supply chains
Robotics for reducing waste and improving material efficiency
Soft robotics and responsive textiles
Human–robot collaboration in craft and making
The skills, ethics and working practices a robotic future will need

Looking Ahead

Over time, the Observatory will become home to the Lab’s own robotics research, connecting broad sector conversations with hands-on material experimentation. Further projects and events will be shared here as they are published.