Materials are a mainstay of both industry and everyday life. The manufacturing and processing of materials is a very important sector as it affects both the mechanical properties and the usage of the final products. In recent years, the increased use of 3D printing and, by extension, its materials have caused the creation of gaps in terms of strength that require further scientific study. In this study, the influence of various printing parameters on 3D-printed specimens made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) polymer was tested. More specifically, three printing parameters were selected—infill, speed, and type—with three different values each (50%, 70%, and 90%), (5 mm/s, 20 mm/s, and 35 mm/s) and (Grid, Rectilinear, and Wiggle). From the combinations of the three parameters and the three values, 27 different specimens were obtained and thus, 27 equivalent experiments were designed. The measurements were evaluated, and the process was modeled with the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) method, revealing a strong and robust prediction model for the tensile test, with the relative error being below 10%. Both infill density and infill pattern were identified as the most influential parameters, with the Wiggle type being the strongest pattern of all. Additionally, it was found that the infill density acts increasingly on the strength, whereas the printing speed acts decreasingly.

The present study investigated the Strength-to-Mass ratio (StMr) yielded by Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) specimens, fabricated with the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) method. A universal testing machine was utilized for the Ultimate-Tensile-Strength (UTS) measurement of the specimens, whereas a precision balance was used to measure their mass. The experiments were designed according to the Central-Composite-Design (CCD), by considering four process parameters: the infill, the layer thickness, the line direction of the top and bottom layers, as well as the pattern. In addition, a shallow Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was developed to predict the StMr, which was then compared to the empirical model generated by the CCD method. The analysis revealed a strong correlation between the two models, with the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) being below 1%. Finally, verification testing was performed to evaluate the absolute error handling of the ANN model, which was found to be 6%.

Computational design together with the digitization of most fabrication processes play an important role in many research areas. Digital tools such as 3D modeling and computational design have been increasingly used. Computational design combines traditional 3D product design together with programming a general-purpose CAD system in order to promote system integration. In essence, using CAD-based textual or visual programming languages a series of products can be designed with accuracy and take advantage of product customization and automation of downstream applications. The present paper aims at customizing furniture design based on automating both the design and the fabrication procedures. The customer is able to define a series of geometrical characteristics, i.e., width, length, internal dimensions, and various other properties. The outcome consists of automating a great deal of processes, i.e., 3D modeling and assembling, visualization, creating the bill of materials (BOM), producing assembly instructions for the user, drawings and prototyping files, weight estimation.

Microgeometry plays a key role in the performance of a drilling tool. In the present study, the performance of two twist drills is being evaluated in terms of the generated cutting force and torque. Both tools are ø8 TiAlN coated, carbide two-flute drills, with a point angle of 140°, as well as with equal flute length. A plate of Al7075 served as the workpiece and a CNC machine was utilized to perform two sets of holes, one for each of the tools. Despite the fact that both tools are coated, with identical helix and point angles, they performed in a dissimilar manner due to their different cutting profile. In specific, the comparison revealed that the tool with the larger cutting lip performed better in both output data, yielding lower force and torque values up to 23.1

Computer technology influences the capability to enhance the functionality of manufacturing and product design technologies. Innovations in computational design and digital manufacturing empower designers and manufacturers to create novel representations and algorithms for designing, analyzing, and planning the production of highly complicated products achievable through state-of-the-art technology. Various principles, including computational physics, geometric reasoning, and automated spatial planning, enable engineers to generate entirely new categories of products in the footwear industry. This study aims to review the methods and tools that have been published in the literature for the last twenty years, and provide a better understanding of the parameters, tools, and controls that contribute to the design and manufacturing processes of shoes. The main focus is on highlighting the product design-related trends within the footwear industry. A structured framework becomes apparent in the literature through the grouping and presentation of information. This framework facilitates drawing conclusions about the trends and existing needs derived from in-depth research in the field of footwear. Additionally, it reveals the upcoming methods and tools that will contribute to the enhancement and development of this emerging and promising industry sector. In conclusion, the categorization limitation within the footwear industry could serve as the foundation for exploring key areas to be analyzed further in other industries, for instance, in furniture, clothing, and packaging.

This study presents an investigation of the effects of structural characteristics, such as the layer height, infill density, top/bottom layer line directions and infill pattern, on the structural efficiency of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)-based specimens. The Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technique was utilized for the specimen fabrication, and the Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and Strength-to-Mass (S/M) ratio were examined. The tests were planned according to the Central Composite Design (CCD), and an empirical model for each response was developed, with respect to the applied factors and their interactions. The analysis revealed that the characteristics with the strongest influence on the UTS and the S/M ratio were the infill and the layer height, respectively. Moreover, it was observed that the honeycomb structure contributed to the highest UTS compared to the other patterns. Finally, an optimization analysis based on the desirability function was performed, highlighting the combination of a 0.3 mm layer, 21.81% and 76.36% infill, 0° direction and the honeycomb pattern as the optimal for maximizing both UTS and S/M ratio under different desirability.

Designers receive a great deal of inspiration from nature thus offering opportunities for unusual product concept development. These concepts together with technological tools i.e. computational design, additive manufacturing, prototyping, can lead to automate the design process and shorten significantly the time to market needed. The present paper considers the inspiration from bioluminescent bacteria cultures and offers design opportunities for wearable products within the jewelry industry. More specifically, a family of earrings were designed considering both aesthetics and the unique experience that the end user receives. They include a soft circuit and, seamlessly integrated set of LEDs that emit a soft glow. A family of 3D earring models were generated using Rhinoceros3D™ and Grasshopper™ as the basic computational product design tools. The objective of this research was to explore the potential of integrating the technologies into fashion design, by pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. The interdisciplinary approach blurs the conventional distinction between style and function. Finally, it offers insight into the future of wearable technology and its implications for the accessories related industry.

Even today, many people around the world, that need artificial limbs, do not have access to them. This is mainly because of the high cost associated with the design and production of artificial limbs. One critical key factor that contributes to the cost of the production of artificial limbs is the complete customization of shapes and proportions to each individual patient. Automating this process could substantially reduce the cost of producing artificial limbs. In this paper we utilize the API (Application Programming Interface) of a commercial CAD-based system to automate the three-dimensional design of prosthetic lower limbs. First, the essential design parameters for the automation process are defined. These parameters are mainly based on human physiology and the traditional design and fabrication techniques of artificial lower limbs. Then, the system, based on the values assigned to the input parameters, automatically creates customized prosthetic lower limbs. In addition, the system offers various design alternatives based on the intended use of the artificial limb. The CAD-based System presented in this paper highlights the feasibility of comprehensive parameterization in the prosthetic limb design process, which harbors significant potential for shaping future developments in prosthetic limb design. Beyond technical considerations, it also holds promise for positively influencing cost dynamics and improving accessibility within this critical domain.

Stop motion is an animation technique, where objects are physically manipulated in small increments between individually photographed frames, creating the illusion of movement, when the series of frames is played in sequence. Both stop motion animation and digital animation can attract and engage a user. Stop motion is known for its handcraft character and offers the feeling that what you watch really exists. It brings prototypes to life and highlights their characteristics, while at the same time, allows the storytelling transfer and offers dynamic visualization. Digital animation provides a versatile and dynamic platform capable of intricate detail and seamless integration with other digital media, making it suitable for a wide range of applications i.e. technical presentations, marketing campaigns. In the present paper, four rooms inspired by the four seasons of the year were created. All rooms include a set of furniture and several products, which are presented both physically and digitally. The main idea is to use the stop motion visual technique as an innovative tool for presenting, promoting and communicating the use of the products within the designed 3D space. In this way, an alternative advertising method is offered and can attract the user’s attention. The implementation consists of using both physical and digital prototyping for presenting the use of the designed products.

A holistic approach to product design is a design mindset that creates desirable products but also fulfills stakeholders' needs and considers production limitations. Design is more than aesthetic results and takes into consideration a great number of topics such as the sustainability of the product by using the best practices in material resources, examining the parameters of the industrial production and the re-usability of the product. Additionally, the strategy of holistic design aims to extend the product's life cycle beyond its initial use, making it self-promoting and attractive to customers, while enhancing the company's brand image to gain a competitive edge. Ultimately, each experience associated with a product, whether it's a tangible item or a service, is deliberately crafted with the user in mind. The proposed paper uses a holistic design approach for luxury secondary metallic champagne packaging, highlights the importance of the correct data gathering and analysis from research, and then translates to parameters and limitations that they will embed into the design decisions delivering the final product. In conclusion, the paper presents various methodologies and cutting-edge tools to generate rendered representations of the product, ensuring effective communication with all relevant stakeholders.

Incorporating CAD programming into the design process of a garment can provide multiple benefits. The use of computational design can automate the wearable design and increase the potentials of customization. 3D printing finds application in many sectors due to its capacity to fabricate unusual geometries with reduced cost, especially when limited number of products are involved. The current paper contributes towards automating the design and manufacturing of customized garments. The proposed algorithm uses a number of dimensions of the human body as input data, and parameterizes a predefined clothing pattern. Then a set of fabrication commands (G-code) is generated in order to lead towards the manufacturing of garments with the use of a 3D printer. A case study is presented, using flexible 3D printing material and including special connectors created.

Design thinking and design procedure are two essential approaches to the holistic design strategy. Design thinking is focused on user-centered innovation and creative problem-solving, on the other hand, the design process strategy involves the technical aspects of designing a product. The combination of the aforementioned design approaches leads to successful product design outcomes of products that are usercentered, aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable. In recent years, there has been a great interest in the use of natural organic materials to ensure sustainability in product design, as they have a unique aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the semiology of natural organic materials is a crucial aspect of the branding identity of the final products. The proposed paper is exploring a user-centered design approach (e.g., empathy maps, digital sketches, CAD models, and physical prototypes with a focus on selecting the appropriate materials). Finally, this design strategy highlights the importance of collaboration between designers, engineers, and manufacturers throughout the design process.

In recent years, the rapid advancement of technology has caused an increase in the development of wearable products. These are portable devices that can be worn by people. The main goal of these products is to improve the quality of life as they focus on the safety, assistance and entertainment of their users. The introduction of many new technologies has allowed these products to evolve into many different fields with multiple uses. The way in which the design of wearable products/devices is approached requires the study and recording of multiple factors so that the final device is functional and efficient for its user. The current research presents an in-depth overview of research studies dealing with the development, design and manufacturing of wearable products/devices and applications/systems in general. More specifically, in this review, a comprehensive classification of wearable products/devices in various sectors and applications was carried out, resulting in the creation of eight different categories. A total of 161 studies from the last 13 years were analyzed and commented on. The findings of this review show that the use of new technologies such as 3D scanning and 3D printing are essential tools for the development of wearable products. In addition, many studies observed the use of various sensors through which multiple signals and data could be recorded. Finally, through the eight categories that the research studies were divided into, two main conclusions emerged. The first conclusion is that 3D printing is a method that was used the most in research. The second conclusion is that most research directions concern the safety of users by using sensors and recording anthropometric dimensions.

Drilling of structural aluminum alloys (AA) is one of the most frequently applied processes in the industry. This study utilizes a Taguchi L9 orthogonal array, to investigate the influence of three key machining parameters (cutting speed, feed and tool diameter), on the thrust force and cutting torque induced during drilling of Al6082 T6 temper with coated, carbide tools. The set of the 9 experiments was carried out on a CNC machine, whereas the desired output was measured with a rotational dynamometer. In addition, a data acquisition system was used to facilitate the output data collection. The analysis revealed that the tool diameter is the variable that affects the most, both output parameters, followed by the feed. Furthermore, the optimal cutting conditions were identified, with the minimization of the cutting forces and torque in mind.

One essential aspect of any CAD system, which has not been addressed adequately, is the capability to support the automatic placement of dimensions of a mechanical drawing. Today, even the most sophisticated CAD systems automatically place dimensions of mechanical drawings without strictly adhering to standard dimensioning rules (e.g., there are usually overlaps, repetitions and misplacement of dimensions). Therefore, the automatically generated dimensions are the starting point for a manual improvement of the dimension positions. In this paper we present a software system for the automatic placement of dimensions in mechanical drawings, incorporated into a commercial CAD system, which is efficient and places dimensions that comply with the basic drawing standards, assigns dimensions to all elements of a drawing, and does not produce redundant dimensions.

Musical instruments serve as remarkable examples of the intersection between human creativity and technological progress. In fact, advancements in the design and manufacturing of musical instruments have often been at the cutting edge of technological innovation in many cultures. Nowadays, the number of traditional craftsmen who are involved in the construction and repair of traditional musical instruments has dramatically decreased. Most of these craftsmen play a significant role in maintaining the musical tradition as they have inherited their art from previous generations and continue to work for the creation of high-quality instruments. The scanning of traditional musical instruments and the use of 3D printing technology is an interesting way to preserve and disseminate cultural heritage. In our case, real traditional Cretan musical instruments made by traditional craftsmen were scanned and the exact 3D-printed replicas were developed to be transformed into digital musical instruments placed in a museum as a part of a system, called HapticSOUND. This process can contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage in relation to the traditional musical instruments of Crete. Additionally, it can allow users to interact with these instruments and learn more about them through digital technology.

The paper focuses on designing and developing an interface for interacting with a mechatronic system through gestures. Using machine vision techniques, a methodology is developed that aims to record and locate the gesture through an image capture system. Once the gesture is isolated and gesture recognition is possible, the appropriate control commands of the system are determined. This makes it possible to control the mechatronic system through a dictionary of movements, called gesture vocabulary. The results of the methodology were applied to a real mechatronic system and showed significant results. The efficiency and effectiveness of the interface emerged from a satisfactory sample of users. It appeared quite easy to use, but also presented some basic difficulties in its application. The conclusion of the research is that controlling mechatronic systems through gestures can be a very important interaction interface.