A model for computer-aided creative design based on cognition and iteration

Abstract

Conceptual design is the most creative and important stage in product design process. A computer-aided creative design (CACD) system is indispensable to provide effective support for human-oriented creative behavior and iterative decision-making during the conceptual design process. Based on cognition and iteration, this study proposes a triplhelix innovative solving model to guide the construction of CACD system. In this model, three types of space are established, including design flow space as reference for mapping direction, knowledge inspiration space as source of stimulus information, and solution operating space as carrier. The cooperation among the triple space is organized based on memory information processing theory, so as to inspire designers’ cognitive thinking to generate product solutions. In addition, the iterative operations of design elements among function, behavior, and structure utilizing the proposed triple space are discussed. With this model, the designers can develop multiple innovative solutions according to expected design types (variant, adaptive, original), and different cognitive stimulation (extension, analogy, mutation) of design knowledge can also be obtained. Then, a prototype system of computer-aided creative design platform is developed to implement this innovative solving model. Finally, a design case of espresso machine is presented to demonstrate the practicability and validity of the prototype system.