Conventional colour measurement methods do not fully account for the optical properties of multilayer polymer systems in transmitted polarized light. This work presents a Mueller-calculus-based model that predicts the spectral radiance and perceived colour of multilayer anisotropic polymer film stacks viewed in polarized light, targeting design needs in packaging. The model accepts the light source spectrum, polarizer and analyser angles, film optical-axis orientations, polymer film birefringence, and the spectral transmittance of added colour filters. The model was implemented in Python using SymPy and Colour libraries. Validation experiments employed stacks 1–3 layers at a 45-degree angle of 25±5 µm thickness BOPP films between parallel and crossed polarizers with a measured LED light source and X‑Rite i1Pro spectrophotometer, including stacks combined with three gel colour filters and three flexographically printed patches on BOPP; BOPP birefringence was retrieved as Δn 0.015 via spectral analysis and it is consistent with the literature. The model reproduced key spectral features and colour coordinates, yielding absolute spectral RMSEs of 0.34-1.01 mW/(m2·sr·nm) for stacks without colour filters and a mean RMSE of 0.27 mW/(m2·sr·nm) with colour filters. The mean colour difference ∆E76 across configurations with colour filters was 10.8. The model can be used for preview prototyping of polarized-light effects and security features in multilayer packaging and may provide a basis for an intelligent colour-management system.
This study investigates the optical properties of coatings based on functional pigments and cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) across the solar spectrum (UVVIS-NIR: 200-2500 nm). The coatings were formulated using CNC aqueous suspension as a sustainable, bio-based binder. Four different pigment types (one IR-absorbing and three pearlescent) were incorporated into the CNC matrix and coated onto the translucent paper substrate. Spectrophotometric measurements revealed significant differences in optical properties among coatings. The coating based on IR-absorbing pigment exhibited the highest overall absorbance, especially in the NIR region, the lowest reflectance across the entire solar spectrum, but the highest transmittance in the NIR (≈85- 90% between ≈900-1800 nm). Coatings based on the pearlescent pigments showed lower overall absorbance but higher UV reflectance. The results highlight the potential of using CNCs as a binder with functional pigments to create sustainable functional coatings on transparent substrates where more light, less heat, and higher UV absorption are needed.
Mass media has become an essential channel for promoting healthy eating while preventing non-communicable diseases. However, the design forms of advertisement health messages can affect consumers' attitudes toward advertising and their health perceptions. This study adopted an experimental design to explore the effects of fruit and vegetable image design forms (anthropomorphic, photographic, and geometric) and model body shapes (no model, obese, overweight, normal, and thin) on health perceptions and emotional responses. The findings indicate that when the model's body shape was “normal,” anthropomorphic fruit and vegetable designs significantly improved health perceptions; when the model's body shape deviated from health standards (e.g., thin or obese), photographic and geometric designs may weaken health perceptions. The body shape of the advertisements’ models was the main factor affecting emotional responses. Advertisements with thin or obese models were more likely to cause negative emotions, while normal body shapes can maintain emotional stability. When designing healthy eating advertisements, selecting anthropomorphic fruit and vegetable images and models with normal body shapes can strengthen health perceptions while reducing negative emotional responses, improving advertising effectiveness.
This paper provides a systematic review of the literature on text legibility in augmented reality (AR) using the PRISMA methodology, with an emphasis on head-mounted displays (HMD) and screen devices. Based on the literature review, we propose design recommendations for legibility in AR. The analysis was carried out using the 10 most important parameters: font type, text style, color and contrast, font size, text anchoring, text segmentation and organization, environmental illumination, background influence, perception depth, and text display in dynamic environments. The analysis shows that billboard and outline styles and light fonts on a dark background ensure the most reliable legibility. For static information, world-anchoring is recommended, and for dynamic information, screenanchoring is advised. Level-of-Detail (LOD) approaches are shown to reduce cognitive load. Specialized fonts (e.g. SharpView) and adaptive algorithms that adjust the contrast, size and position of text in real time are also examined. The results indicate a marked dominance of research on HMD devices, although screen AR has great practical importance and requires more research. Regarding other research directions, the review noted hybrid approaches (HMD + smartphone), projection AR, and hardware/ software upgrades such as colorimetric compensation and text position stabilization. Research on text legibility in AR for 3D text, text segmentation, and dynamic real-world scenarios remains underdeveloped. Future advances in text legibility in AR are related to the integration of typographical, perceptual and technical solutions, and reporting harmonization.
Initially utilized in aerospace and medical industries, 3D printing has emerged as revolutionary technology with significant potential in transforming garment creation that previously unattainable through traditional manufacturing. The integration of biodegradable materials in 3D printing represents a promising approach in addressing the environmental challenges posed by conventional plastic-based printing technologies. This study explores biodegradable materials—Polyterra PLA, Esun PLA+, and bio resin—for producing digitally printed sustainable fashion embellishments. Through a mixed method approach involving practical experimentations, a flower-shaped embellishment prototype was made and painted for application on garment. By addressing the limitations of biodegradable materials and demonstrating their potential in high-fashion applications, this study contributes to the advancement of 3D printing by optimising biodegradable materials for a more sustainable and creative design potential for the fashion industry.
AI-generated image tools are an innovation that can significantly impact the design process by increasing productivity and generating a wide range of complex design exploration results. Although AI-generated image tools have many advantages and diverse features, research is still needed to assess the suitability of the images produced in the ideation process carried out by designers. The purpose of this study is to compare and assess the influence of the ideation process carried out by student designers in a mascot creation project with and without the use of AI-generated image tools. The method for this study is an experimental design by compares the ideation process using AI-generated images with the ideation process without using AI-generated images. The design analysis of the final design was conducted by expert designers using a blind review technique. The results of this study do not yet show that the use of AI in the ideation process is superior to conventional methods, but it is known that AI-generated images tools can be a reference and a competent choice of ideation media to use. This research has implications for the method of extracting ideas in the mascot design process and also provides evidence that the use of AI in the ideation process should not be feared or avoided.
The permeability of paper and cardboard materials is extremely important for packaging safety. However, paper and cardboards have poor liquid resistance due to their naturally porous structure and the hydrophilic character of cellulose fibers. When packaging papers are exposed to liquid effects both from inside (by the product) and outside, they may become deformed and cannot fulfill their duty of protecting the product. For this reason, the resistance of packaging papers to liquids (water-oil, etc.) should be well known in order to make a selection appropriate to the content of the products. In this study, the effects of air permeability, liquid contact angle and surface energy values of various papers and cardboards used in the packaging industry on water and oil resistance were experimentally investigated. After determining the air permeability of the papers, liquid contact angle and liquid absorption measurements were carried out using the Sessile water drop method for surface wetting characterization. The surface energies of the papers were calculated depending on the liquid contact angle. Then the oil absorption of these papers was determined by measuring the time-dependent absorption of Castor oil. Differences in liquid resistance between papers were demonstrated and evaluated based on the air permeability of the papers, water contact angle, surface energy and liquid absorption. It was concluded that the wettability and surface energy of papers are the determining factors in water absorption, while air permeability is the determining factor in oil absorption.
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of GANs in generating animations that achieve high levels of realism, focusing on motion quality, texture detail, visual composition, and frame-to-frame coherence. A qualitative approach was employed using ATLAS.ti to analyze outputs from models such as MoCo-GAN and StyleGAN3. The dataset included 110 animations, from which key visual elements were coded and analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that 68% of the animations demonstrated smooth motion transitions, while 20% exhibited jerky movements and 12% contained motion artifacts. Similarly, 70% of the animations featured highly detailed textures, but 20% had flat backgrounds, and 10% showed lighting inconsistencies. Visual compositions with strategic framing and depth perception were observed in 55% and 30% of the animations, respectively, whereas only 15% maintained symmetrical layouts. These results underscore the strengths and limitations of GANs in achieving realism, particularly in complex scenarios. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on GAN applications in animation by identifying critical visual factors that enhance aesthetic and narrative coherence. Practical implications include guiding designers and developers in leveraging GANs for high-quality animation production. Future research is recommended to address existing technical challenges and evaluate audience responses to GAN-generated animations, paving the way for more dynamic and engaging visual content.
The increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into graphic design and advertising has raised pressing questions about the role of authorship, trust and aesthetic judgement. This study examines how consumers perceive AI-generated versus human-created advertising visuals in the context of jewellery advertising. Two online surveys (n = 127) were conducted to compare participants' preferences under the conditions of disclosed and undisclosed authorship. The results show that while AI-generated visuals were sometimes rated favourably when authorship was hidden, human-created content was clearly preferred overall – especially when authorship was disclosed. A gender analysis revealed that female participants were especially sensitive to authorship cues, favouring human-created visuals. Logistic regression further confirmed that authorship disclosure, gender and design features such as human presence and serif typography were significant predictors of preference. Qualitative responses suggest that while AI visuals are technically competent, they lack emotional authenticity and narrative resonance. These findings emphasise the importance of transparency, emotional design and collaboration between humans and AI in visual communication. The study contributes to ongoing debates about machine creativity, aesthetic value and ethical disclosure, and offers practical implications for designers and marketers using AI in emotionally-driven contexts.
Bicycle helmets are designed to protect the user in case of a fall or collision. The effectiveness of a helmet depends on many factors, one of which is its correct fit on the user's head. The presented paper aims to develop an application that can generate personalized helmet designs based on user-provided data. After receiving the user's data, the design process is automatically carried out via a computer-based algorithm. The data provided includes two photos, capturing both the front and side views of the user's head. Using these images, the algorithm analyzes the curvature, proportions, and size of the head to create curves that closely align with the user's head shape. This information is then used to design a helmet comprising of two main components: the outer shell and the inner lining. The outcomes of this study were effectively assessed through two methods. The initial evaluation involved digital analysis using 3D scanning technology to compare the head curvatures between the algorithm and the scanned model. The second evaluation utilized 3D printing technology. Using appropriate materials, the helmet was fabricated while its geometry was applied evenly to the user's head.
This study explores the functional role of 3D printers in original printmaking, a graphic production technique. Traditional methods like linocut, engraving, and intaglio have limited integration with modern digital manufacturing technologies. This research examines how 3D printers can be effectively combined with these techniques. The main goal is to show how 3D printing can be integrated into the printmaking process and what benefits it brings to design and production. The study focuses on converting digitally designed models into physical printing plates via 3D printing, highlighting how this enables the creation of complex surfaces and detailed forms difficult to achieve traditionally. This offers designers both creative freedom and technical advantages. Additionally, the research discusses how digital design and customization of printing plates and stencils improve flexibility, speed, and cost-efficiency in printmaking. Especially in linocut and engraving, the precision, scalability, and detail of 3D printing introduce new production paradigms. In conclusion, the study shows that 3D printers are not only technical tools but also creative elements transforming graphic production in original printmaking, providing artists and designers new opportunities to exceed traditional boundaries and expand artistic expression.
‘Eight Treasures Tea’ (NETT), a unique herbal tea from Ningxia province, China, is renowned for its distinctive recipe, medicinal properties, and long history, yet public awareness of its cultural and nutritional value remains limited. Preliminary observations suggest that the current packaging design lacks the necessary visual and verbal elements to effectively convey NETT's cultural values (CVs). This study aimed to address this gap by translating NETT’s CVs into creative packaging using a practice-based research approach, conducted in three phases. In the first phase, a visual analysis of 12 existing NETT gift packages revealed limited differentiation in terms of colour, graphics, and typography, with minimal communication of CVs. The second phase involved semi-structured interviews with five experts, identifying eight sub-themes related to NETT’s historical, health, artistic, and spiritual dimensions: historical origin, historical context, health concept, dietary habits, brewing process, drinking method, emotional expression, and cultural interpretation. Findings highlighted the Yellow River as a key symbol of NETT’s historical significance, the artistic merit tied to making and tasting the tea, and the spiritual value shaped by Ningxia’s inclusive and diverse ethnic culture. In the third phase, creative and reflective practice was employed to explore and reconstruct the visual and verbal elements of NETT packaging, representing its multidimensional CVs. The study evoked the interconnectedness of research and practice, highlighting the critical role of the practitioner as a researcher. The creative process and outcomes offered new insights into packaging design, enhancing the communication of NETT’s cultural values to potential consumers.
Thermoforming is a widely used plastic packaging method due to its affordability, high protective performance, and ability to prevent mechanical damage to fruits during transportation. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the thermoforming packaging moulding process, evaluate the structural strength of thermoformed packaging, and assess the effectiveness of various shaped thermoformed containers in protecting pears. The prototype design was based on different geometric shapes and dimensions, divided into four relief geometries: cylindrical (M1), semi-circular (M2), geodesic dome (M3), square (M4), and commercial dome shapes. According to the mould thermoforming process, the mockups of each pattern were modelled using SolidWorks software and formed using a 3D printer. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic sheets were formed in a container mould with a thermoformed machine under the same parameter conditions of time, temperature, and pressure. The compression resistance of the thermoformed containers was tested. According to these findings, the compression force was higher in inferior thermoformed containers than in superior thermoformed containers. This is due to the relief size, geometry, and dimensions of the thermoformed containers. Then, thermoformed containers were employed to perform the dart drop impact test, with the pears dropped from heights of 20, 40, and 60 cm. The thermoformed container sample with a square shape (M4) had the lowest proportion of bruises (8.33%) on fruit. For container sample M4, the bruised area (BA) was assessed at drop heights of 20, 40, and 60 cm at 97.12, 140.75, and 206.02 square millimeters, respectively. Based on this finding, the bruise volume increased as the impact height increased. Additionally, a drop test was performed at a height of 90 cm using a thermoformed container with pears in a double-wall corrugated board for the BC flute. A higher total area of bruises on pears without thermoformed containers was observed in the evaluation of bruised damage. Therefore, this study concludes that the shape, size, and relief position of thermoformed containers reduce the damage caused by the compression strength and dropping height during transportation.
The introduction of ultraviolet (UV) light technologies to the graphic arts industry has revolutionised printing by offering better print quality, faster curing times and the ability to print on a variety of substrates. Despite these advances, UV light and UV-curable materials pose significant health risks to workers. This paper examines the potentially harmful effects of UV light on workers in the graphics technology sector and outlines key safety measures to mitigate these risks. The UV spectrum (100–400 nm) is categorised as UVA, UVB and UVC. While UVA and UVB are partially absorbed by the atmosphere, UVC is almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer. In graphics technology, however, artificial UV light sources can expose workers to harmful radiation. The increasing use of UV light in UV printing and UV curing requires a closer look at occupational hazards. Harmful effects include skin damage (erythema, skin ageing, pigmentation changes, skin cancer) and eye damage (photokeratitis, cataracts, retinal damage). UV-curable inks and coatings also contain photoinitiators and chemicals that pose health risks (irritation, allergic reactions and respiratory problems) and require comprehensive safety protocols. Key safety measures include personal protective equipment (PPE) such as protective clothing, goggles and respirators. Technical measures such as UV-blocking shields, covers and adequate ventilation reduce exposure. Comprehensive training, the use of PPE, safety protocols and regular inspections ensure the safety of employees. By addressing the risk of UV exposure, the industry can protect its employees while continuing to innovate.
Children with Down syndrome generally have difficulty with daily living skills. Therefore, an appropriate learning approach is needed to train DS children to have daily living skills. The aim of this research is to identify the level of learning visual ability of children with Down syndrome, then explain the parameters of visual content animation as a tool to obtain responses from children with Down syndrome, and to determine the effective animation content to help the independence process of children with Down syndrome. The research method used is a mix method. This research uses an experimental study where the participants are children with Down Syndrome. Data collection methods use interviews, observation and questionnaires. Data analysis using the Wilcoxon Sign Rank test The results of this research found that Down syndrome children have different characters, levels of learning abilities and interests even though they are the same age and DS children tend to experience problems with independence, especially toilet training. Independent intervention to be used as a learning medium can be done through animation media whose visual content matches their character and preferences. The test results show that there is a significant effect of learning through animated videos on the level of message understanding and toilet training independence in DS children. With the characters, environment, duration, colors, figures in the video that they like, it will further increase their interest in the video so that they can understand the message in the animated video easily.
The analysis of existing publications highlights a gap in scientific research on mechanisms used in the drive system to move the pressure plate, particularly those that extend the contact duration between the die-cutting mold and cardboard. The authors developed a kinematic scheme of the proposed double-wedging mechanism. The geometric synthesis and kinematic analysis of the mechanism were performed, determining the relative values of key geometric parameters, displacement, velocity, and acceleration of the pressure plate. The geometry and kinematic parameters were calculated using mathematical models based on similarity invariants. To validate the results, a simulation of the work process was conducted in the SolidWorks program for the double-wedging mechanism and the existing mechanism used in Bobst presses. A comparative analysis of the analytically obtained kinematic dependencies and the simulation results demonstrated absolute agreement, confirming the accuracy of the developed mathematical models. The results of the kinematic analysis indicate that using a combined two-wedging mechanism doubles the duration of the die-cutting tool with the cardboard blank. This prolonged contact positively impacts the efficiency of die-cutting operations, particularly for creasing and relief embossing.
In this research, natural pigments, anthocyanins, were used to produce bio-based films that can be used in smart packaging, as they serve as pH indicators to monitor the freshness of the packaged products. The aim of the research is to analyse the colorimetric and optical differences in the produced films before and after they are exposed to the environment with different pH values. In order to evaluate the possibility of using the produced films in printing processes, the adhesion of the produced pH indicators to packaging material was determined. This research has shown that it is possible to produce pH indicators from anthocyanins extracted from plant residues as well as from different types of starch. The influence of the anthocyanins immobilised in the starches on the colorimetric properties of the produced films and the adhesion of the films to the packaging material was evaluated. The research results showed that it is possible to produce a pH-responsive indicator based on the ingredients used. Different types of starch showed no significant difference in the visual appearance of the films, but a difference was found when different anthocyanins were used. It was proposed to use potato starch with anthocyanins from red cabbage and maize starch with anthocyanins from red onions to produce pH indicators. These polymer composites showed clear color shifts that are easy to recognise visually.
This work focuses on using machine learning algorithms in the prediction of dot gain related to flexographic process color printing. The way these advanced aspects of machine learning techniques are applied can revolutionize the various uses of printing technology. The machine learning techniques can be used to a wide range of applications since they adhere to dynamic programming methodology and computational learning theory. The machine learning algorithms can generate a trained input dataset framework, allowing them to make logical and dynamic predictions and judgments based on input data. Two grades of paper substrates with varying surface textures, two levels of anilox screen rulings, and a total of 100 steps of halftone square dot percentages with 4% intervals for each process colors are selected as the experimental process variables. An algorithm for evaluating a flexographic print output response, known as Dot Gain was generated using the Python machine learning technique. For data analysis and performance evaluation, machine learning techniques such as linear regression, decision tree, random forest regression, XG (Extreme Gradient) boost regression, SVM (Support Vector Machine) regression and neural network algorithms were used. The findings of this research work demonstrate that, out of all the machine learning algorithms used in this investigation, neural network methods had the highest accuracy. The accuracy of the neural network algorithm is 96.43, 98.32, 97.01 & 95.30 respectively in the prediction of dot gain for cyan, magenta, yellow and black.
Design programmes commonly employ project-based learning (PBL) in studio settings, emphasising hands-on learning through real-world projects. However, there are multiple practices in the name of PBL. There is confusion about what is and what is not PBL. Furthermore, real-world or authentic projects are integral to PBL but have no clear interpretations. Many studies inform about the advantages of real-world or authentic projects; however, very few about its integration into teaching and even fewer in graphic design education. This action research proposes a framework for the clarity and application of PBL in a graphic design studio class using a real-world design project. The proposed framework in the study derived from the work by Blumenfeld et al., 1991; Krajcik & Blumenfeld, 2005, shows the implementation of a real-world project for graphic design students—an area where the PBL research is scarce. Applied in a communication design course at an Indian university, the framework imparts structure, clarity, and alignment with curricular requirements. This approach ensures successful course completion with tangible outcomes, enriching students' portfolios. The study serves as a model for employing a comprehensive framework based on PBL, demystifies real-world or authentic projects and demonstrates how they can be tailored for holistic learning in graphic design educatio
The growing demand for sustainable food packaging is driven not only by consumer awareness of food safety but also by international strategies such as national development plans and European Union regulations, which emphasize the replacement of conventional plastics with bio-based and functional alternatives. In this context, active antioxidant packaging plays a critical role in extending food shelf life, reducing waste, and ensuring safer products. Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) was selected as the matrix material due to its good film-forming properties, biodegradability, biocompatibility, odorlessness, and non-toxicity or low toxicity, while vitamin C (ascorbic acid), a natural antioxidant, was incorporated as the active agent. HEC solution was prepared by dissolving HEC powder in distilled water, and vitamin C was incorporated. The resulting mixtures were homogenized and cast onto glass plates, followed by drying to produce uniform films. The obtained films were systematically characterized in terms of contact angle (wettability), and antioxidant capacity. In addition, their surface performance was evaluated through IGT F1 flexographic test printing trials to assess practical applicability. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of vitamin C enhanced the antioxidant functionality of HEC films, while altering their barrier and surface properties depending on the concentration used. These findings suggest that HEC-based films containing vitamin C have significant potential as active packaging materials that meet both sustainability goals and food safety requirements.
