DES4006 Industrial Design 2: InnoForm (Spring 2027)

Innovation is driven by the ability to reimagine products with new solutions that address the needs of society, economy, and the environment. This course will equip students with both analytical and creative methods needed to develop sustainable and impactful solutions. The course also focuses on effective communication of ideas, as this is essential for transforming concepts into valuable solutions for people, the planet and societal economy.

The course teaches advanced tools for research analyzes, ideation, prototyping, and presenting design solutions. The students will refine their skills from initial idea conception to compelling concept pitches.

Throughout the course, students will explore form-giving methodology and techniques. By engaging in human centered design methodology, students will enhance their creativity and innovation capabilities. AI will be used as an integrated tool in analyses, ideation and in the final presentation stage.

The learning outcomes emphasize storytelling, physical modeling, and extensive use of digital media, ensuring students ability to communicate their design narratives effectively. Students will create a rich variety of physical and digital prototypes, integrating traditional sketching physical model building and digital visualization. Regardless of the technological tools employed, the course remains anchored in the core competencies of Industrial Design.

Knowledge:

• A profound understanding of user centered design process in Industrial Design.
• Awareness of triple bottom line (people, planet, economy) and general sustainability principles and their application in the design process, emphasizing long-term impacts on society and the environment.
• Insights into storytelling across various media platforms, rooted in core Industrial Design skills.
• Knowledge of the professional standards and practices relevant to the design industry, including ethical considerations and the role of design in driving innovation.
• Understanding of the designer’s role both as a Creator and also their role as Curator in the use of digital and AI tools.

Skills: 

• Gain a deeper understanding of their competencies in Industrial Design and how to leverage them for innovation.
• Develop a reflective and realistic perspective on their current skill set and the requirements for professional advancement.
• Adapt to new tools and contexts.

Lectures, workshops and assignments both individual and in groups. Peer feedback is a core method in the course.

The course starts with Design4Craft, the industrial design week at AHO.

Excursions related to project topics may be arranged and will be confirmed at semester start.

Form of assessment: Portfolio assessment

Grouping: Individual

Grading scale: Pass/fail

The portfolio assessment includes the following elements:
During the semester:

• 2-3 main module deliveries

Each delivery must be approved by the course responsible in order to pass the course. If the assignment is not approved, the student can deliver additional work in due time before the final delivery.

Final delivery of main design project:

• Physical model
• Project report
• Oral presentation with slides

Assessment of main project will be done by an external examiner and course responsible.