Implementing product design methodology tools: a desk lamp case study

Abstract

The product design process is used to develop new innovative products or to improve existing ones. The category of space decoration covers items that are mainly designed based on aesthetics and thus help users to enjoy an easier and more efficient lifestyle. Desk lamps are developed either for functional or aesthetic purposes. A large part of their use is in the workplace, and they aim to increase productivity. The contribution of the present work is to deal with the design of a prototype desk lamp that can combine both the functional and aesthetic characteristics required. In order to achieve this goal, a number of methodological and technological tools have been implemented in the development of the product itself i.e. mind-map, sketches, color selection process, a 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) modeling and 3D assembling, a high-quality rendering tool, and prototyping. A step-to-step approach was taken, starting with a search for similar works published, developing the design concept from scratch and finishing with a prototype using 3D printing technology available. The developed prototype provided a solid basis for an early evaluation of the users’ perception of the designed product. A 3D CAD system has been used to achieve both the modeling and the prototyping of the product. Combining functionality and aesthetics, a design concept has been developed, a 3D printing prototype has been produced and finally an early evaluation of the outcome became available by experienced design engineers.