Aesthetics in Product Design

Aesthetics in Product Design

• Aesthetics is concerned with how something looks and appeals to the human eye.
• In product design, aesthetics are highly valued, as the human eye is often initially attracted to something based on its appearance.
• People are frequently drawn to a product's look before considering other important factors like 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 sturdy, durable, and robust?
• Does it look clean and easy to maintain?
• Does the product appear expensive?
• Does the product seem superior to similar existing products?

Symmetry/Asymmetry

• Studies indicate that humans generally prefer symmetrical objects over asymmetrical ones.

Idea Generation Techniques

• Designers use various techniques to generate many ideas quickly.
• Brainstorming/Thought Showers: A group activity where people from diverse backgrounds or areas of expertise discuss possibilities for new ideas.
• Technology Transfer: Adapting solutions to problems from other fields of technology or nature.

Lateral Thinking

• Lateral thinking, often described as "thinking outside the box," approaches problem-solving by avoiding obvious or direct solutions.
• It encourages exploring innovative and seemingly impossible ways to solve a problem, leading to more creative and original solutions.

Analogy

• Analogies help generate ideas by comparing a product or problem to a similar concept or object.
• Using simple comparisons can provide fresh perspectives on products and suggest new possibilities.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

• Confidentiality: Covers trade secrets like recipes, formulas, and similar information. Examples include fireworks or chemicals and medicines information.
• Copyright: Protects creative works such as music, novels, films, and paintings.
• Patent: Secure proprietary rights for a new technology, gadget, or mechanism. An application goes to the patent office.
• Trademark: Patents new technology, gadgets, and mechanisms.
• Brand: Brand reputation affects customers perceptions of quality, reliability, and value.
• Design Rights: Protect unique designs of an existing product, even if it has a new look or function. Design patents can protect the design, but not the invention.
• Registered Design: Protects the appearance or a product, like a unique toaster appearance.

Modelling Techniques in Product Design

• Designers use modeling techniques to generate ideas, develop designs, and communicate details to team members and the public.
• Models are made from various materials and used at different stages of the design process.

Graphic Tech - Mock-Ups

• Quick models used to visualize the aesthetic appeal and size/ergonomics of an idea, using paper and easy-to-manipulate materials.

Test Model/Test Rig

• Working models of product parts or sections, to check mechanisms, electronics, and other crucial aspects.
• Ensuring proper function before production.

Scale Model

• Smaller or larger-scale models of a product (e.g., a ship or a building).
• Allows for evaluating appearance and feedback from potential customers, without building a full-scale product.

Block Model

• Life-size models that look like the final product.
• Evaluates aesthetics and basic ergonomics without worrying about manufacturing the product.

Prototype

• A full-scale working model of a product, assessing function and mechanical/electronic components.
• Often expensive, but crucial to ensure a final product functions and is reliable.

Computer Models (3D Models)

• Computer-generated models to detail product designs.
• Tools to simulate operation and check for safety issues.

Rapid Prototyping

• A rapid process for producing accurate models of computer designs.
• Builds models in layers, using computer control of machinery.

Rapid Prototyping - The Process

• Designers generate a 3-dimensional product model.
• Computer software converts the model to a detailed layer-by-layer file.
• Rapid prototyping machinery builds the product by combining/adding layers of material.
• Additional material (water-soluble) can be used for overhanging sections until the work is complete, which can be removed without affecting the product.

Rapid Prototyping Advantages

• Models produced quickly, compared to traditional methods.
• Precise models with accuracy to the 1000th of a millimeter.
• Checking components fit together efficiently, eliminating costly errors.
• Ergonomic evaluation possible before manufacturing.
• Reduces time to develop and market products.
• Enables quick design modifications.

Rapid Prototyping Disadvantages

• Rapid prototyping equipment is expensive.
• Material limitations mean only one material can be used at a time.
• Size limitations from the machine; products are only made as big as the machine can accommodate.
• Over-designing and wasting time can occur.

The Design Team

• Product development teams consist of professionals with varying skills.
• Common roles within the team include designers, production managers, and marketers.

Design Team Roles

• Designer: Creates and develops the product, ensuring function and suitability to the target market.
• Engineer: Checks and guarantees the reliability of components, and chooses the correct materials for the product.
• Manufacturer: Responsible for product assembly, adhering to designs and specifications.
• Market Researcher: Researches the target market and customer needs, and creates appropriate marketing information.
• Accountant: Manages the financial aspects of the project, ensuring profitability, by examining the costs of the project against potential earnings.
• Lawyer: Handles legal issues related to the product, patents, and safety.