Applications and Evaluation of Physical Models in Design
Imagine you're designing a new ergonomic chair. You’ve sketched your ideas, created detailed CAD drawings, and even run simulations to test structural integrity. But how do you know if the chair will actually feel comfortable or if the armrests are positioned correctly? This is where physical models step in, allowing you to explore, test, and refine your design in a tangible, hands-on way. In this section, we’ll explore how physical models are used to test product form, functionality, and ergonomics, how instrumented models measure performance, and the advantages and limitations of physical models in design.
Using Physical Models to Explore and Test Designs
Physical models are three-dimensional, tangible representations of a design or system. They allow designers to visualize and interact with their ideas in real space, making them invaluable tools for testing and refining designs.
Exploring Form, Functionality, and Ergonomics
Physical models are often used to evaluate three critical aspects of a product:
- Form: Does the product look as intended? Is it visually appealing? For example, car designers use clay models to assess the aesthetics of a vehicle, ensuring the curves and proportions align with their vision.
- Functionality: Does the product work as planned? For example, a mock-up of a kitchen appliance might help designers test how easily users can access controls or compartments.
- Ergonomics: Is the product comfortable and intuitive to use? For example, an ergonomic chair model can help test whether armrests are at the right height or if the seat provides adequate lumbar support.
Consider the design of a new smartphone. A physical model might be created to test how the phone feels in the hand, whether buttons are easy to press, and if the screen size is appropriate for user needs. This hands-on exploration provides insights that digital models or simulations cannot fully capture.
TipWhen testing ergonomics, involve real users to gather feedback. Observing how people interact with a model often reveals usability issues designers might overlook.
Measuring Performance with Instrumented Models
While basic physical models allow designers to evaluate form and ergonomics, instrumented models take this a step further by incorporating sensors and measurement tools. These models provide quantitative data on a product’s performance, enabling designers to make precise improvements.
What Are Instrumented Models?
Instrumented models are equipped with sensors and other devices to measure specific performance metrics. They are used for verification(ensuring the design meets its intended purpose) and validation(ensuring the design accurately represents real-world conditions).
Applications of Instrumented Models
- Prosthetic Devices: Instrumented prosthetics can measure forces and movements, providing data to improve fit and functionality.
- Architectural Models: Sensors in scale models can measure structural loads or simulate environmental conditions like wind or sunlight.
- Automotive Testing: Full-scale car prototypes may include instrumented components to test aerodynamics in wind tunnels or measure stress on structural elements.
Imagine designing a running shoe. An instrumented model might include pressure sensors in the sole to measure how weight is distributed during movement. This data could help refine the shoe’s cushioning and support.
NoteInstrumented models are especially useful in iterative design processes, where data from one version informs improvements in the next.
