Determining the evolutionary stages of the digital 3d model and the affecting parameters in the industrial design process

The subject of this thesis is to investigate effective parameters that lead to the evolution steps of the computer-aided 3D modeling in the context of the industrial design process during the early design stage, prototyping, and preparation for mass production applications. The design processes in new product development, computer-aided 3D modeling, prototyping, and preparation activities for mass production were examined to understand the evolution of 3D modeling process. After the introduction to basic concepts of the subject, a research survey was conducted to investigate the evolution of the 3D models within industrial design process. In line with the data obtained from the survey, 3D modeling behaviors of the designers were analyzed, and five different behavior patterns were observed. Afterward, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants who exhibited each behavioral pattern. The evolution stages of 3D modeling and the effective parameters for these evolution stages have been determined. The intention, here is to designate the effectiveness of these parameters in the early design, prototyping, and preparation activities for mass production. As a result, the modeling stages were defined by determining the different functions and qualities of 3D models in the industrial design process. The aim is to contribute to the literature by indicating the modeling parameters affecting the evolution of the 3D model during the process. Findings will be beneficial in determining the modeling skills needed in design education or the industry and in creating strategies for gaining these skills.