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Client-centred design evolution via functional prototyping

This paper reports the knowledge generated through an in-depth industrial case study where the client had a direct input into the design process through the use of high fidelity functional prototypes created using additive manufacturing (AM). Analysis of the case studies enabled the development of a client-centred methodology for ‎engineering designers to follow when using multiple iterations of AM prototypes. Designers ‎using the methodology are able to benefit from greater optimisation of their product designs ‎before going into production.‎ Since the research was undertaken, the methodology has become the standard operating ‎procedure within the company.

This paper originated from joint research work with the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) in South Africa. Apart from Dr Ian Campbell, all the authors are researchers at the CUT who were involved directly with the case studies. Dr Campbell applied his knowledge from similar case study work in the UK, undertaken while he was on a nine month industrial secondment at a motion analysis equipment manufacturer. This paper was internationally blind peer-reviewed by multiple reviewers and published in an academic journal.