Product design algorithm

Abstract

For many years 3D printing has been one of the most exciting promises in future technologies. One of the issues with the penetration of 3D printing technology is the required proficiency with creation software; and the lack of experience in design. This report describes the exploration into a novel means to empower users to create unique design files to 3D-print and in doing so aspires to increase the technology’s audience. The current users of the technology are mainly people with technical backgrounds or highly invested autodidact amateurs. The audience that is targeted with this project consist of creative, tech savvy early adopters; people who lack the skills but not the inclination. The idea proposed by this project was to find a compromise between freedom and ease of use, while maximising the perceived freedom and sense of authorship. The approach to achieve this goal is by the means of formalising a digital design process through an algorithm. By offering a set of instructions and options the user would be guided through the process. The objective is that the user experiences a successful DIY-type cycle with sense of genuine authorship over the outcome. It does so by combining several types of tools into a specific combination setting up a framework for other people to use for specific product types. It proves to be a multi-faceted problem consisting of: the algorithm; a user interface; a way to guide the user through the process called the Track; and guidelines to create an implementation of the framework, on a meta-level. Each of the facets is explored and combined to create the concept. After thorough analysis and ideation the concept proposal is the PDA (Product Design Algorithm)-framework. By making several prototypes and reviewing them, through quick user tests, a lot of insight was gained. This iterative process proved to be a productive means to get comprehension in the implementation of the proposal. This led to the creation of the final design case; Spectacle. Spectacle showcases the implementation of the framework with a full track, algorithm and user interface. It facilitates the creation of glasses and guides the user in specific steps through the process. By manipulating things like sliders, points and curves, the user forms the design of the glasses. It provides real-time feedback by displaying a representation both in 2D and 3D according to the specific step in the process. In some instances parameters are controlled directly and singularly and in others they form group for a more subjective feeling of control. It made use of augmented reality to combine map the model on the users face via a web-cam. The Spectacle was tested with group representing the target. Through observation; vocalising the thought process; and post use-interviews new insights were gained that were either implemented immediately wherever that was possible and otherwise included in the guidelines. This report suffices as an exploration into the world of creating specific algorithmic design tools. However this context is on the forefront of innovation and therefore constantly changing. While this project tries to make its recommendations as fundamental as possible it is likely that some things will change over time.