Investigations in robotic-assisted design: Strategies for symbiotic agencies in material-directed generative design processes

The research described in this article utilises a phase-changing material, three-dimensional scanning technologies and a six-axis industrial robotic arms as vehicles to enable a novel framework where robotic technology is utilised as an ‘amplifier’ of the design process to realise geometries that derive from both constructive visions and architectural visions through iterative feedback loops between them. The robot in this scenario is not a fabrication tool but the enabler of an environment where the material, robotic and human agencies interact. This article describes the exploratory research for the development of a dialogic design process, sets the framework for its implementation, carries out an evaluation based on designer use and concludes with a set of observations. One of the main findings of this article is that a deeper collaboration that acknowledges the potential of these tools, in a learning-by-design method, can lead to new choreographies for architectural design and fabricatio

Industry 4.0, global value chains and international business

Purpose: The paper aims to provide an assessment of how the widespread adoption of new digital technologies (i.e. the internet of things, big data and analytics, robotic systems, and additive manufacturing) might affect the location and organisation of activities within global value chains (GVCs). Approach: The approach in this paper is to review various sources about the potential adoption and impact of the new digital technologies (commonly known collectively as Industry 4.0), to contrast these technologies with existing technologies, and to consider how the new technologies might lead to new configurations involving suppliers, firms and customers. Findings: We report that the new digital technologies have considerable potential to disrupt how and where activities are located and organized within GVCs), and who captures the value-added within those chains. We also report that Industry 4.0 is still in its infancy, but that its effects are already having an impact upon the nature of competition and corporate strategies in many industries. Implications: In particular, we draw attention to the potential cyber-risks and implications for the privacy of individuals, and hence the need for regulation. Originality/value: This is the first published paper to consider the likely separate and joint impacts of the new digital technologies on the practice and theory of international business

The Fabrication Commons: Creative Agency Through Intuitive Interfaces

With digital fabrication tools and networking technology becoming increasingly attainable and versatile, there is an opportunity for more people to become makers instead of just being passive consumers. How can we take advantage of this to foster larger local and global communities of makers? Most digital fabrication research focuses on a singular novel process or application of a tool, and not the actual relationship between the users and the entire fabrication process. To engage a broader audience with digital fabrication, I propose a user-centric ecosystem that attempts to seamlessly link all of the individual elements of the workflow. My research involves designing a series of prototypes for inexperienced makers that lower the barriers of complex workflows. By doing this, anyone can be empowered to shape their environment and cater to their needs and desires without relying on mass-produced goods. With more engaging, accessible methods of fabrication, people can benefit from the advantages of creating something themselves, and form communities that are more empowered and meaningfully connected

Interaction Methods for Smart Glasses : A Survey

Since the launch of Google Glass in 2014, smart glasses have mainly been designed to support micro-interactions. The ultimate goal for them to become an augmented reality interface has not yet been attained due to an encumbrance of controls. Augmented reality involves superimposing interactive computer graphics images onto physical objects in the real world. This survey reviews current research issues in the area of human-computer interaction for smart glasses. The survey first studies the smart glasses available in the market and afterwards investigates the interaction methods proposed in the wide body of literature. The interaction methods can be classified into hand-held, touch, and touchless input. This paper mainly focuses on the touch and touchless input. Touch input can be further divided into on-device and on-body, while touchless input can be classified into hands-free and freehand. Next, we summarize the existing research efforts and trends, in which touch and touchless input are evaluated by a total of eight interaction goals. Finally, we discuss several key design challenges and the possibility of multi-modal input for smart glasses.Peer reviewe

Understanding and Supporting Newcomers to 3D Modelling and Digital Fabrication

Interest in understanding and facilitating 3D digital fabrication is growing in the HCI research community. However, most of our insights about end-user interaction with fabrication are currently based on interactions of professional users, makers, and technology enthusiasts. This thesis documents my studies of newcomers to 3D modelling and printing, users who have no prior experience with fabrication and mainly explore walk-up-and-use 3D printing services at public print centers, such as libraries, universities, and schools. I first carried out exploratory research consisting of 32 interviews with newcomers to 3D printing, print center operators, and fabrication experts to better understand the motivations, workflows, and barriers newcomer face in appropriating 3D printing technologies. A major theme in these interviews was the use of online platforms to retrieve and print premade models as an alternative to the complex 3D modelling workflow. I conducted further investigation into Thingiverse, the largest online 3D design sharing community, investigating users’ activities and their conversations by using quantitative and qualitative analyses. Finally, based on my observations with newcomers and the conversations on Thingiverse, I developed MarmalAid, an online 3D modelling system integrated with contextual help that can facilitate conversations and help seeking throughout the 3D modelling process

GLOBAL OUTLOOK ON MEDICAL DEVICE INDUSTRY

Medical devices assume a significant job in providing various healthcare services. The purpose of this article is tantamount to bring about the highlight key insights of the medical device industry and current innovative developments taking place, unique insights, and expectations for coming years from medical device industry professionals around the world. Global markets expect from the sturdiest growth, biggest regulatory challenges. The rising occurrence of acute diseases, regulatory requirements, and consistency in innovation is central point driving the medical device business sector development, later it is significant for the medical device industry to regularize and enhance the method to take into account the requirements of patients