Abstract
To explore the relationships between the generative research and design for sustainability at the idea generation phase of the design process, a design research method that emerges from generative research approach “Experience Reflection Modeling” (ERM) has been developed and integrated into a design for sustainability project within the context of design education in the Department of Industrial Design at the Middle East Technical University (METU). The ERM method brings together 3D modelling, interview and video recording techniques to help user reflect her/his needs, experiences, preferences and expectations regarding a product lifespan. This method focuses on integrating user observations with the idea generation phase of the product design and development process. This paper presents initial conclusions and findings from a doctoral study with an emphasis on the development of the ERM method. Firstly, it will provide an overview of the generative research with a particular focus on the ERM involving people in the early stages of the design process. Then, it will present “My Sustainable Mini Oven” project and its sustainable design considerations. Subsequently, the paper will illustrate how these considerations (e.g. engaging design solutions, energy consumption, product maintenance and repair, etc.) are integrated into the ERM method. Finally, further conclusions and insights in terms of the relationships between the ERM and sustainability will be discussed.
Keywords
generative research, sustainable design considerations, experience reflection modelling, design education, mini oven
Citation
Turhan, S., and Dogan, C. (2012) Integration of Generative Research and Sustainability into the Product Design and Development Process, in Israsena, P., Tangsantikul, J. and Durling, D. (eds.), Research: Uncertainty Contradiction Value - DRS International Conference 2012, 1-4 July, Bangkok, Thailand. https://dl.designresearchsociety.org/drs-conference-papers/drs2012/researchpapers/140
Integration of Generative Research and Sustainability into the Product Design and Development Process
To explore the relationships between the generative research and design for sustainability at the idea generation phase of the design process, a design research method that emerges from generative research approach “Experience Reflection Modeling” (ERM) has been developed and integrated into a design for sustainability project within the context of design education in the Department of Industrial Design at the Middle East Technical University (METU). The ERM method brings together 3D modelling, interview and video recording techniques to help user reflect her/his needs, experiences, preferences and expectations regarding a product lifespan. This method focuses on integrating user observations with the idea generation phase of the product design and development process. This paper presents initial conclusions and findings from a doctoral study with an emphasis on the development of the ERM method. Firstly, it will provide an overview of the generative research with a particular focus on the ERM involving people in the early stages of the design process. Then, it will present “My Sustainable Mini Oven” project and its sustainable design considerations. Subsequently, the paper will illustrate how these considerations (e.g. engaging design solutions, energy consumption, product maintenance and repair, etc.) are integrated into the ERM method. Finally, further conclusions and insights in terms of the relationships between the ERM and sustainability will be discussed.