Industry Collaboration Experience Sheffield

In July 2022, the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC) at Sheffield Hallam University hosted students, academics and industry representatives from four different Universities and five different companies for a week of intense research and collaboration.

Five groups of students from the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Austria and the UK worked on five different projects which were created and driven by their industry partner and supervised by academic members. Projects included:

  • An assessment of brake lever ergonomics (with Magura)

  • Measurement of cycling short temperatures and humidities (with Vaudé)

  • Assessing player tracking accuracy (with Catapult Sports)

  • Comparing treadmill and natural running (with Motek)

  • Assessing the effect of turf length and moisture on ball passes (with Labosport).

The AWRC’s facilities played a key role in the success of the event. A large space, the ‘innovation accelerator’ had 3D printers, desk and collaboration spaces so that each group could quickly discuss ideas and generate prototypes. Our large movement analysis laboratory and its associated workshops were host to frenzied making, tweaking and testing throughout the week. At the end of the event we asked each participant for feedback, the quality of spaces and friendliness and support from the AWRC staff was noted.

“The venue was perfect for the programme, with great support and everyone felt at ease” Student member

“[We had] a big space in the university and facilities and equipment for everyone” Student member

“Facilities and the access to resources were excellent” Industry member

“The venue and social activities were great!” Industry member

“Facilities were top!” Academic member

In addition to project work, two cultural events were held through the week. First, the group travelled to Baslow and Chatsworth house to enjoy the grounds and sculptures, while later in the week a local guide took them on a historical tour of Attercliffe, the Sheffield Canal and Kelham Island. Many of the attendees also had the opportunity to attend Netherlands vs Switzerland in the UEFA Women’s EUROs, at Bramall Lane (the Dutch attendees were particularly buoyed by the result!)

Overall, the event was a fantastic opportunity for cross-European collaboration, to showcase the facilities available at Sheffield Hallam University and the AWRC, and to also make progress with five unique and challenging research projects. The week was received very well by participants and organisers Simon Choppin and John Hart look forward to attending next year’s event scheduled to be in Chemnitz, Germany.

Visit the website of the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre for more information regarding the facility.

I.C.ENicole Kleven