Printable products: investigating three-dimensional printing in the design process of interior products

The Maker Movement and Three-Dimensional Printing (3DP) have the ability to engage individuals/consumers in the design and fabrication of interior products, potentially transforming a passive consumer to an active creator. Together, they could have significant impact on the design process, fabrication and distribution of interior products. This thesis aims to research the impact 3DP has on the design process and fabrication of interior products through three methodological phases. The first phase focuses on gaining a first-hand experience and critical understanding of the capabilities and limitations of 3DP in the product design process, as I engage in a project investigating 3DP as an iterative design tool. In the second phase, I collaborate with a fellow graduate student to investigate the role of 3DP in both the design process and as a final fabrication method for a furniture prototype. Finally in the third phase, I facilitate a 3DP product design workshop, in which undergraduate students are asked to incorporate and examine the role of 3DP in the design process of an innovative new product. The research and analysis generated through the phases reveal that when used effectively 3DP could significantly impact the design process and the fabrication of interior products. 3DP enables the conceptualization and realization of new forms in product design, as well as, allows designers to evaluate and redesign a product based on the fit, form, and function derived from a rapidly fabricated 3D printed product. However, the results from the third phase illustrate the importance of having familiarity and experience in 3DP and 3D modeling in order to be successful in fully utilizing 3DP in the design process and as a final fabrication method in product design