Powerful graphics workstations are now within the reach of most design firms. The under-utilization of computer technology in industrial design can no longer be attributed to the cost of hardware. Early attempts at computer-based industrial design were generally not well received, and have created a negative bias towards computers. We are working on design tools that actively assist conceptual product design. Thus far our work is directed towards the design of consumer electronics products with injection molded housings.
Product design is considered from a consumer's perspective.
Our research software can generate alternative design concepts based upon manufacturing, ergonomic, aesthetic, and style considerations. Unlike analytical engineering design tools, we concentrate upon less quantitative aspects of product design . We hope such systems will join conceptual engineering design and industrial design into a unified process. We feel that modern design suffers from a duality of approach, depending upon whether a design is to be judged as useful or beautiful. Broadly speaking, industrial design is biased towards visualization, while engineers focus upon performance.