Pr midterm
•💡 1. Innovation & Product Purpose
Technological Innovation
* Definition: The process of translating a new idea or technology into a product, service, or process that creates value or solves a problem.
* Types of Innovation:
* Incremental: Small, continuous improvements to existing products (e.g., a slightly faster smartphone).
* Radical / Disruptive: Groundbreaking changes that create entirely new markets (e.g., the shift from horse carriages to automobiles).
Purpose of a Product
* Core Function: Every product is designed to solve a specific user problem, satisfy a human need, or fulfill a market demand.
* Value Proposition: The unique value a product promises to deliver to consumers, making it preferable to competitors.
⚙ 2. CNC Machining (Computer Numerical Control)
What is CNC?
* Definition: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a manufacturing process where pre-programmed computer software dictates the movement of factory tools and machinery.
* Mechanism: It converts a digital 3D design into precise coordinates (\(X, Y, Z\) axes) to cut, shape, or form materials automatically.
Purpose of CNC
* Precision & Accuracy: Eliminates human error to achieve microscopic tolerances.
* Repeatability: Produces thousands of identical parts flawlessly.
* Efficiency: Operates continuously at high speeds with minimal material waste.
* Complexity: Easily cuts intricate 3D shapes that are impossible to make by hand.
Types of CNC Machines
* CNC Mills: Uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a stationary workpiece.
* CNC Lathes (Turning Machines): Rotates the workpiece against a stationary cutting tool (ideal for cylindrical parts).
* CNC Routers: Similar to mills but typically used for softer materials like wood, plastics, and sheets of composites.
* CNC Plasma/Laser Cutters: Uses a high-powered plasma torch or laser beam to cut through sheets of metal or plastic.
* EDM (Electrical Discharge Machines): Utilizes electrical sparks to shape hard metals that are difficult to machine traditionally.
* CNC 3D Printers
🛠 3. Prototyping & CAD
Prototyping
* Definition: The process of building an early, preliminary model of a product to test a concept, design, or process.
* Stages of Prototyping:
* Low-Fidelity: Quick and cheap models (cardboard, 3D prints) used to test basic shape and size.
* High-Fidelity: Highly detailed, functional models made with production-grade materials to test real-world performance.
* Purpose: To catch design flaws early, save money before mass production, and gather feedback.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
* Definition: Software used by engineers and designers to create precise 2D drawings or 3D digital models of a product.
* Key Benefits:
* Replaces manual drafting with fast, editable digital files.
* Allows for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to simulate stress and strain on a product before it is physically built.
* Exports files directly into CNC software (using CAM - Computer-Aided Manufacturing) or 3D printers.
👤 4. User-Centric Design & Ergonomics
User Feedback
* Definition: Information collected from users regarding their experiences, pain points, and satisfaction with a product.
* Role in Design: Iterative design relies on user feedback to refine features, fix bugs, and optimize the overall user experience (UX).
Ergonomics (Human Factors)
* Definition: The science of designing products, systems, and environments to fit the physical and cognitive capabilities of the people who use them.
* Core Goals:
* Comfort: Reducing physical strain and fatigue (e.g., an office chair with lumbar support).
* Safety: Minimizing injury risks (e.g., non-slip handles on power tools).
* Efficiency: Making a product intuitive and easy to operate.
📐 5. Basic Product Design Assistance
When designing a basic product, utilize this step-by-step checklist to guide your process:
1. Identify the Need: Define the problem you are solving and who your target user is.
2. Research & Brainstorm: Look at existing solutions and sketch out multiple creative ideas.
3. Apply Ergonomics: Consider how the user will physically hold, see, or interact with the product.
4. Develop a CAD Model: Build a 3D digital version to establish exact dimensions and material choices.
5. Prototype & Test: Manufacture a physical version (using 3D printing or basic CNC machining) and test it with real users
6. Gather Feedback & Iterate: Refine the design based on test results until it is ready for production.
Types of backsplash materials
- Granite
- Marble
- Metal
- Limestone
- Travertine
- Glass Tiles
- Porcelain Tiles
- Glass Mosaic
- Mirror
- Ceramic
- Brick Stone
- Quartz
- Quartzite
HOW TO CONDUCT A MARKET RESEARCH1. Define the Problem (or Opportunity)
2. Design the Research
3. Design the Data Collection Forms
4. Specify the Sample
5. Collect the Data
6. Analyze the Data
7. Write the Research Report and Present Its Findings