Aesthetics in Product Design

Aesthetics in Product Design

• Aesthetics are concerned with how something looks and how it appeals to the human eye.
• In product design, aesthetics are ranked very highly.
• The human eye is initially attracted to something based on its appearance.
• People are often drawn to a product's appearance before considering its function.

Important Aesthetic Factors in Product Design

• Does the product appeal to its target market?
• Does it blend in with its surroundings?
• Does the product look robust, durable, and sturdy?
• Does it look clean and easy to keep clean?
• Does the product look expensive?
• Does the product look better than similar products already available?

Symmetry/Asymmetry

• Studies show humans prefer symmetrical objects over asymmetrical ones.

Idea Generation Techniques

• Designers use various techniques to generate many ideas quickly.
• Brainstorming/Thought Showers: Group activity where people from diverse backgrounds discuss new ideas.
• Technology Transfer: Adapting solutions to problems from other areas of technology or nature.
• Lateral Thinking: "Thinking outside the box"; avoiding obvious solutions to find more creative ones.
• Analogy: Comparing a product or problem to something else to generate new ideas.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

• Confidentiality: Covers recipes, formulas, and proprietary information such as (fireworks, Irn-Bru, chemicals and medicines).
• Copyright: Protects original works of authorship, including music, songs, poems, stories, films, books, paintings, images, and photographs.
• Patent: Protects inventions, including technology, gadgets, mechanisms, and new products. Requires application to the Patent Office.
• Trademark: Protects brand names, logos, and other unique identifying symbols.
• Brand: Represents a company's identity, quality, cost, reliability, and status.
• Design Rights: Covers new versions of existing products with different appearances or functions (e.g., different versions of a toaster or kettle).
• Registered Design: Protects the appearance and style of a particular product type.

Modelling Techniques in Product Design

• Designers use various modelling techniques to generate ideas, develop designs, and communicate information with the design team and the public.
• Different types of models, made from different materials, are used at different stages of the design process for various purposes.

Modelling Techniques (Specific)

• Mock Up: A quick model to help generate product ideas or to quickly evaluate aesthetics.
• Test Model/Test Rig: A working model used during the development stage to check that mechanisms and electronics function correctly.
• Scale Model: A smaller or larger version of the proposed product that shows consumers what the product will look like.
• Block Model: An accurate-looking but non-functional model of a product.
• Prototype: A full-sized working model of a product. Used to check that a product works, using the materials it will eventually be made from.
• 3D Computer Models: Computer-generated models used to detail designs, check assembly, and simulate performance and check safety.
• Rapid Prototype: Highly accurate, speedily produced models made using computer-controlled machinery.

Rapid Prototyping

• Rapid prototyping quickly creates accurate solid models using computer-controlled machinery that builds the model in layers.
• It offers an additive manufacturing process (building up layers)
• It contrasts with subtractive processes (like CNC machining) which carve down a material.

Process of rapid prototyping

• The designer or engineer creates a 3D model
• The 3D model is converted into a file that breaks it down into thin layers.
• The file is sent to a rapid prototyping machine.
• Layer by layer the model is built
• Overhanging areas are supported by a separate, water-soluble material, removed once the process finishes.

Advantages of Rapid Prototyping

• Models are created quickly.
• Models have high accuracy (1000th of a millimeter).
• Component fitting can be checked.
• Ergonomics can be evaluated.
• Time to develop the product and reach the market is greatly reduced.
• Design mistakes can quickly be edited on the computer model.
• Very complex shapes can be created.

Disadvantages of Rapid Prototyping

• Rapid prototyping equipment is expensive.
• Use of one specific material is a limitation.
• The size of the machine constrains the size of the model.
• Possible waste of time developing unmanufacturable forms.

The Design Team

• The design team consists of professionals with various skills and contributes to design, manufacture, and company operations.
• There are teams for Design, Manufacture, Marketing, Accountant, and Lawyer roles.

The Designer's Role

• Designs and develops products meeting intended market appeal.
• Communicates with other team members throughout design and manufacturing of the product.

The Engineer's Role

• Ensures electronic and mechanical components are reliable, functioning, and use suitable materials with appropriate durability.
• Communicates about component sizes and materials to manufacturers.

The Manufacturer's Role

• Responsible for manufacturing and assembling to specifications to ensure seamless processes and products.

The Market Researcher's Role

• Research and communicates market and user information to designers
• Responsible for identifying and procuring necessary materials.
• Responsible for advertising and product promotion before and after launch.

Accountant's Role

• Conduct feasibility studies to ensure profitability.
• Track company investments (debts and capital).

Lawyer's Role

• Involved in registering designs, patents, and licenses.
• Addresses legal issues regarding product safety and disclaimers.