Title: An intelligent computer-based framework for integrating emotions and aerodynamics in sportsbike design

Authors: Philip Farrugia; James Mamo; Tonio Sant

Addresses: Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Building, University of Malta, Room 007, Msida MSD2080, Malta ' Cycle World Malta Ltd., Triqil-Ward, Santa Venera SVR 1641, Malta ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Building, University of Malta, Room 315, Msida MSD2080, Malta

Abstract: In today's competitive market it is critical to understand how product design connects with the consumer emotionally. Therefore, design engineers must adopt a design for emotion (DFe) approach, whilst applying fundamental principles to enhance the performance of complex artefacts, such as sportsbikes. A sportsbike cannot be designed based on aesthetics only, but rather on a balance between aesthetics and aerodynamic performance, as the design of the outer body itself is what ultimately affects the drag and lift properties. Within this context, a framework for an intelligent computer-based support system was developed, aimed at supporting designers to take emotions and aerodynamics when developing sportsbikes. A proof of concept computerbased tool was implemented and evaluated. Qualitative results gathered from an evaluation conducted with eight practicing product development stakeholders, provide a degree of evidence that the proposed framework is useful in designing sportsbikes with more emotional value and enhanced aerodynamic characteristics.

Keywords: computer-based engineering design support; knowledge-based systems; design for X.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDE.2019.104122

International Journal of Design Engineering, 2019 Vol.9 No.1, pp.1 - 21

Received: 25 Mar 2019
Accepted: 30 Apr 2019
Published online: 14 Dec 2019 *

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