ART 298 - Industrial Design

Part furniture design, industrial design, and problem-solving laboratory; this hands-on, introductory course will focus on developing innovative functional objects from concept to prototype. In the first half of the course, participants will grapple with challenging prompts that range from theoretical to practical such as designing a “container to hold an intangible substance” or designing a “tool to help a specific population.” Solutions to these prompts will take the form of pencil sketches, quick foamcore studies, and computer models made using software like SketchUp, Fusion 360, and Sculptris. We will employ iterative design processes throughout the course, including in-progress group discussions and students will have the opportunity to revise and present further developments.

In the second half of the course, participants will design and produce a finished functional prototype of their choice using tools and techniques within their comfort level. Students will have access to basic and cutting-edge equipment in Wheaton’s sculpture studio and makerspaces. Technical instruction will be given as needed. Topics will include aesthetics and theories of design, material properties and selection, user-oriented design, human factors (ergonomics), computer-aided design (CAD), and design for manufacturing.

Prerequisites
There is no prerequisite for this course, but participants will be required to learn new software at a quick pace with guided instruction.

Credits 1