A generative-AI-based design methodology for car frontal forms design

Abstract

With the advancement of artificial intelligence, big data, and cloud computing, numerous generative AI applications have surfaced. In contrast to conventional generative design and computer-aided design tools, these applications significantly enhance design productivity. However, there are currently few design methodologies based on generative AIs in the academic community to improve the efficiency of industrial designers and optimize the design process. This study introduces a creative and practical methodology for designing car frontal forms based on generative AIs. In this methodology, imagery adjectives describing car frontal forms are generated by sending valid prompts to the text-generative AI application GPT-4.0. Then input typical imagery adjectives into the image-generative AI Midjourney successively as prompts to generate many car frontal forms that align with the typical imagery adjectives, forming a reference form database. Subsequently, a base form is selected, and target imageries are defined. Simultaneously, forms from the reference form database, conforming to the target imageries, are chosen as the reference forms. The main form elements of the base and reference forms are then delineated using cubic Bézier curves. Finally, a form curve blending algorithm is applied to obtain a set of alternatives, and the image-generative AI application Vega AI is utilized to convert the alternatives into three-dimensional renderings. FAHP-based expert evaluation and consumer perceptual evaluation are employed to validate the alternatives. Results indicate that the alternatives effectively capture the imageries of the reference forms. The proposed generative-AI-based design methodology enhances the efficiency of industrial designers, thereby minimizing human and material costs in product development. Additionally, this study presents a design case using various generative AIs to inspire designers to re-examine the traditional design process.