Representation and Interpretation of Sketches in Mechanical Design: Experimental and Theoretical Approaches

Abstract

This paper aims to establish a theoretical foundation for representing and interpreting free-hand design sketches throughout the conceptual design process. Both experimental and theoretical approaches are used. In using the experimental approach, one case study from a book and one case study from an automobile assembly system manufacturer are used to illustrate the characteristics of design sketches. These characteristics provide the requirements for models of sketch representation and interpretation. In using the theoretical approach, a mathematical structure of design sketches is established. This mathematical structure can naturally and logically model the evolving sketches generated in the design process, through integrating the strengths of set theory and mereology. Based on the results of these two approaches, a design sketch language is developed to be a formal foundation of sketch representation and interpretation.