2D is the first step for most 3D products, and is the preferred format for the majority of manufacturing/ working GA drawings. These accurate plans and layouts can be easily transformed into 3D models.

Below a winning designs for the Design Awards by, Sam Buxtin, showing a Lazer cut 2D pattern which can be simply folded out to create playful and fun 3D sculptures.

3D modelling generally used from concept, as we can now sketch in 2D in a 3D plane and use these 3 axis of the drawingboard. We see new ways of designing and creating beautifully formed organic and sculptural shapes. 3D modelling is a process that can be used at any stage of the design process. Used with parametric modelling and rapid proto-typing we can accurately co-ordinate high level tolerancing and quality control from 3D sketch to final accurate model.

Below pressed Bi-Metal switches, found in most electric cookers and kettles.

4D design visualisation is used for the analysis of a product or service over time, a products life-cycle and the theatre of a product in use. Playing a part throughout the design stages we can consider the design during any part of the products life cycle, shelf life, life in use or life after use.

Design for sustainability:

Visualising a new product can use various design methods such as "future gazing", "gap analysis" or "Critical Path Analysis".

We can imagine a products use over time, not only from the end users perspective, but through a products life cycle.

If design methods are employed efficiently at a visualsing stage, we can design products life cycles, their quality, their re-use opportunities, design for maintenance, design for production and of course the now trendy re-cycling.

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Please read: ~ Smart Product Design ~