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Responsive computer-aided design (also simplified toresponsive design) is an approach tocomputer-aided design (CAD) that utilizes real-worldsensors and data to modify a three-dimensional (3D) computer model. The concept is related tocyber-physical systems through blurring of the virtual and physical worlds, however, applies specifically to the initial digital design of an object prior to production.
The process begins with a designer creating a basic design of an object using CAD software withparametric oralgorithmic relationships. These relationships are then linked to physical sensors, allowing them to drive changes to the CAD model within the established parameters. Reasons to allow sensors to modify a CAD model include customizing a design to fit a user'santhropometry, assisting people without CAD skills to personalize a design, or automating part of an iterative design process in similar fashion togenerative design. Once the sensors have affected the design it may then be manufactured as a one-off piece using adigital fabrication technology, or go through further development by a designer.
Responsive computer-aided design is enabled byubiquitous computing and theInternet of Things, concepts which describe the capacity for everyday objects to contain computing and sensing technologies. It is also enabled by the ability to directly manufacture one-off objects from digital data, using technologies such as3D printing andcomputer numerical control (CNC) machines. Such digital fabrication technologies allow for customization, and are drivers of themass-customization phenomenon.[1][2] They also provide new opportunities for consumers to participate in the design process, known asco-design.
As these concepts mature, responsive design is emerging as an opportunity to reduce reliance ongraphical user interfaces (GUIs) as the only method for designers and consumers to design products,[3] aligning with claims by Golden Krishna that "the best design reduces work. The best computer is unseen. The best interaction is natural. The best interface is no interface."[4] Calls to reduce reliance on GUIs and automate some of the design process connects withMark Weiser's original vision of ubiquitous computing.[5]
A variety of similar research areas are based ongesture recognition, with many projects usingmotion capture to track the physical motions of a designer and translate them into three-dimensional geometry suitable for digital fabrication.[6][7] While these share similarities to responsive design through their cyber-physical systems, they require direct intent to design an object and some level of skill. These are not considered responsive, as responsive design occurs autonomously and may even occur without the user being aware that they are designing at all.
This topic has some common traits withresponsive web design andresponsive architecture, with both fields focused on systems design and adaptation based on functional conditions.
Responsive computer-aided design has been used to customize fashion, and is currently an active area of research in footwear by large companies like New Balance who are looking to customize shoe midsoles using foot pressure data from customers.[8]
Sound waves have also been popular to customize 3D models and produce sculptural forms of a baby's first cries,[9] or a favorite song.[10]