Facilitation of Kansei engineering design process with LLM multi-agent discussion

Abstract

Recent advances in Large Language Models and Generative AI continue to have a positive impact on the design process and Kansei engineering.At AHFE 2023, we presented the trials of product design using Generative AI based on Kansei engineering (Ishihara, Kuo & Ishihara, AI image generation boosts Kansei engineering design process, 2023).In this study, we explored the possibilities of multi-agent discussion in the design process and Kansei engineering. GPT-4 (OpenAI) was asked to create experts and discuss the given topic from each expert's point of view. In the example below, the topic was given as "We would like to discuss the design of an innovative chair made with a 3D printer. We would like to hear opinions from as many different perspectives as possible.GPT-4 automatically creates 3 virtual experts as: a designer, an engineer, and an environmental specialist. These different experts were created without any specific direction.The following lines are the roles of the experts set up in GPT-4: Designer - Focuses the discussion from an aesthetic point of view. Emphasizes innovation and aesthetics in design. Passionate in tone and fond of creative ideas.Engineer - Focuses on practicality and technical feasibility. Discusses cost and material efficiency in detail. Analytical in tone and logical in approach.Environmentalist - Focuses on sustainability and environmental impact. Discusses the use of recyclable materials and reducing environmental impact. They are soft-spoken and have deep insight into environmental issues.Intermediate discussions are in the following lines;---Persona 1: DesignerInspired by the engineer's opinion, I'd like to think a little more about the balance between durability and design. Durability is very important because chairs are used on a daily basis, and the key to manufacturing with a 3D printer is ensuring structural strength while still maintaining an aesthetically pleasing design. This can be seen as a design challenge.Persona 3: Environmental SpecialistI agree with the designer's suggestion, but materials should be carefully chosen to minimize environmental impact. Environmentally friendly materials, such as bioplastics, can provide greater design freedom while ensuring sustainability. The energy efficiency of the 3D printer is also important.Persona 2: EngineerI agree with the points made by the environmental experts. However, when using environmentally friendly materials, one must also pay attention to the physical properties of these materials. It is important to choose materials that are sustainable while still meeting the basic performance requirements of the chair, such as strength and heat resistance.Persona 1: DesignerThe engineer's technical perspective is very important. As a designer, the challenge is how to turn these technical limitations into art. For example, if there is a limit to the strength of a material, we can incorporate that as part of the design. I think balancing the flexibility of the design with the technical requirements will be key to the success of this project.The final agenda is as follows;---Designer's PerspectiveDesign Innovation: 3D printing allows for unique shapes and patterns that were previously impossible.Aesthetics and Individuality: Aesthetically pleasing designs that match consumer tastes and contemporary interior trends are important.Appealing to consumer sensibilities: Unique and beautiful designs can serve as status symbols, making them feel worth the high price tag.Engineer's PerspectivePracticality and technical feasibility: Consider the balance between manufacturing efficiency and cost while maintaining durability and safety.Customization and Quality: Ensure long-term cost-effectiveness and satisfaction by allowing adjustments to accommodate each individual's body shape and preferences.Overcoming technical limitations: Consider the physical limitations of 3D printing technology as part of the design.Environmental ExpertiseSustainability: Consider the use of recyclable materials and the recyclability of the product.Environmental impact: Energy consumption and material choices during the manufacturing process are important.Appealing to eco-conscious consumers: Green products add value and justify a price premium.---This is a summary of the discussion on the design of 3D-printed chairs from each expert's perspective. A balance between design innovation, technical feasibility, and sustainability is important, and a product based on these factors will influence consumer purchase incentives and can be successful in the marketplace, even at a high price point.We are now trying to combine this with Generative Graphics AI to visualize ideas based on this discussion among virtual experts.