Design Solutions Research Articles

Vernacular Iranian housing as a sustainable model of functional and aesthetic comfort in contemporary passive dwellings

In the recent years, with global warming and the change in climatic characteristics, buildings and interior arrangements in dry and cold climates, that previously did not have cooling problems, now require built and pre-planned cooling systems as well as heating. On the other hand, the enormous increase in energy consumption and the rapid depletion of energy resources causes concern and anxiety for future generations. In this regard, utilizing natural resources and incorporating sustainable solutions into building design are critical. Vernacular technical systems and design ideas can still be accepted and applied to create sustainable solutions. In this context, design strategies for energy efficiency and provision of physical and spatial comforts could be considered based on traditional architecture. In this study, sustainable building design solutions that have been used in Iran’s vernacular houses, which has four distinct climate zones, aimed to create a paradigm for the general modern passive house designs in the global context. Traditional Iranian residential architecture incorporates architectural features for physical, spatial, and climatic needs, as well as aesthetic comfort for the user. In this manner, user needs and interior space organization in vernacular residential architecture can be considered as a sustainable housing model that meets today’s technology requirements in passive house design.

Developing and evaluating human-centered design solutions for enhancing maternal health service utilization among vulnerable pregnant women in Oromia, Ethiopia: Study protocol for a quasi-experimental study

Background Disproportionate uptake of and access to maternal and child health services remain significant challenges across and within countries. Differing geographic, economic, environmental, and social factors contribute to varying degrees of vulnerabilities among individuals, which manifest as disparities in maternal and newborn health outcomes. Designing solutions according to need is vital to improve maternal and child health outcomes. In this paper, we describe our study protocol on developing and evaluating the effectiveness of human-centered design (HCD) solutions to improve maternal health service uptake among vulnerable pregnant women in rural areas of Ethiopia. Methods Disproportionate uptake of and access to maternal and child health services remain significant challenges across and within countries. Differing geographic, economic, environmental, and social factors contribute to varying degrees of vulnerabilities among individuals, which manifest as disparities in maternal and newborn health outcomes. Designing solutions according to need is vital to improve maternal and child health outcomes. In this paper, we describe our study protocol on developing and evaluating the effectiveness of human-centered design (HCD) solutions to improve maternal health service uptake among vulnerable pregnant women in rural areas of Ethiopia. Conclusions and Implications Our sequential approach to evaluating initial solutions, which in turn will inform the enhancement of solutions, will provide practical insights into how solutions are accepted among vulnerable women and how they can be better integrated into women’s lives and health systems. This will inform equity-focused practice and policies targeting populations experiencing greater barriers to accessing care and provide insights into system strengthening in rural areas. Our findings will be disseminated to the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and its partners to inform large-scale implementation at the national level.

Multi-objective optimization of building envelope of rural housing in the severely cold region of China based on energy consumption, thermal comfort and cost-effectiveness

The performance of rural residential buildings has a great energy-saving potential due to the great spontaneity and ignorance of the rural residential construction. To solve this problem, this paper provides a multi-objective optimization model based on Chebyshev inequality. The model takes energy consumption, indoor thermal comfort, project cost as optimization objectives and considers operating conditions in winter and summer. This study taking a rural residential house as an example and analysed the influence of its envelope parameters on building performance using EnergyPlus. The parameters of the building envelope were optimized, which verified the superiority of the method. Optimization results showed that the heating energy consumption was reduced by 29%, and the air conditioning energy consumption was reduced by 6%. This study analysed the relationship between the building energy consumption, indoor thermal comfort and the cost by multi-objective optimization method, to provide a new research idea for rural residential research. Optimal design solutions were generated under various weighting coefficients. The model aimed to meet the climatic and economic conditions of northern China and similar regions. Therefore, based on these optimization results, decision-makers can choose optimal design and construction solutions according to their own will.

Research on Interactive Design of Intangible Heritage APP Based on CA/QFD/TRIZ Integration Method

This study addresses challenges in intangible cultural heritage (ICH) development under cultural digitalization strategies by optimizing ICH app design using an integrated CA/QFD/TRIZ approach. User needs were identified through CA analysis of app feedback, utilizing ROST CM6 software for word frequency and social semantic network analysis to categorize primary and secondary demand categories. These needs were translated into product features using QFD theory, which also identified key contradictions. TRIZ theory was then applied to resolve these contradictions and generate solutions. Based on this process, specific ICH app design strategies were formulated and validated through a case study, resulting in a comprehensive design solution. The integrated CA/QFD/TRIZ paradigm quantitatively clarified user needs, optimized design directions, and provides a valuable framework for future app design research, empowering the digital transformation of traditional ICH.

Innovative Web Design of Mobile Applications for Travel Planning: Improving the Quality of User Experience

The purpose of the study is to analyze and create a web design for a travel application that will provide effective and convenient user interaction with a digital resource. The research method: general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis (to analyze the current state of the problem and existing Ukrainian applications for travel planning), modeling method (development of a goal tree and a functional model of the problem) and prototyping method (development of a prototype of a web application for travel, taking into account modern design solutions and UX/UI approaches). The scientific novelty is the development of the most innovative and modern web application design that will meet modern user requirements and ensure effective customer interaction with the application. Conclusions. Developing a web design for a travel application that will meet modern user requirements and ensure effective interaction with a digital resource is a key component of a successful product on the market. The paper examines the current state of use of mobile travel applications, identifies their positive and negative characteristics. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the development of a travel application interface that will provide the functions of route planning and planning, recommendations for places to visit, hotel and transport booking, organization of group trips, joint route planning with other users, obtaining detailed information about events and activities, organizing excursions, sharing tips and experiences with other users. The study results can be used to develop an intuitive, convenient and functional application interface that meets the needs of users in planning and organizing travel. The results of the study can be used to develop an intuitive, user-friendly and functional application interface. This will help to increase user satisfaction and the effectiveness of their interaction with the application in the process of planning and organizing travel.

Право на город в столичном ландшафте (Случай парка «Зарядье»)

The concept of the Right to the City, introduced into scientific use by Henri Lefebvre in the late 1960s, is actively used in the study of conflicts between residents and city authorities, as well as between different groups of citizens. However, such studies tend to overlook a special type of city — capitals, where the social demands of local residents oppose the political expectations of the country's population. In this case the debate around the interpretation of space comes to the fore, and here the conflict is transferred from the field of social and political activism to the field of symbols. This problem is especially acute in countries with ambiguous identities, where the capital is aimed to represent geographically and culturally diverse territories. Moscow is one of such capitals. This article, using the example of Moscow Zaryadye Park, examines the conflict of capital city space interpretation and possible ways of resolving it. Drawing on such sources as the projects, created by the participants of the contest to create the architectural concept of the park, analytical materials of “Zaryadye” digest, issued by Moscow Architecture and Urban Planning Committee, as well as Yandex.Wordstat web service statistics, the author shows, that the symbols of the capital and the local can coexist in one landscape. The article demonstrates that Zaryadye Park contains images of the capital that represent national identity. These images are embodied in specific design solutions that provide a balance between the interests of citizens, who perceive this space mainly physically, and the perception of the country’s population, for whom visual images play an important role. According to the author’s conclusion, it is precisely thanks to such objects as Zaryadye Park that it is possible to resolve the conflict around the interpretation of capital city space, which for the population of the country turns out to be political (the space of images), and for citizens — social (the space of functions).

Principle Design of C-C Coupling Pathway Towards Highly Selective C2 Products Using Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction:A Review.

Photocatalytic conversion of environmental CO2 into valuable fuels is expected to alleviate fossil fuel and pollution problems. However, intricate product-reaction pathways complicate the regulation of product selectivity. Most studies in this field have focused on increasing productivity rather than on controlling product formation. To date, the major products of photocatalytic CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RRs) are C1 compounds, as opposed to the higher-value C2 compounds, because of the low C2 selectivity of this process. The design of C-C coupled pathways is paramount to facilitate selective access to C2 products in the photocatalytic CO2RR. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms and pathways of CO2RR product generation based on recent research results and summarise the work on CO2RR to C2 products. This review aims to modulate the product-generation pathway to improve the yield and selectivity of C2 products by facilitating C-C coupling reactions. Finally, some of the current challenges in the field of the CO2RR to C2 are outlined, including possible mechanistic interpretations, cost of catalyst use, reactor design, and potential solutions.

Design principles for holistic student formation in online programs

Designing courses which enhance the holistic formation of students, integrating knowledge, skills, competencies, capacity for reflection, judgment and moral choice, brings challenges for learning design, particularly in distance and online learning contexts. In theological education these challenges are widely discussed, yet there are not yet evidence-based design principles for designing online courses to support student formation in these contexts. We used a design-based research approach to collaboratively develop, implement, and evaluate a complex design solution to support and enhance holistic student formation at an Australian theological college. Over three cycles of implementation we collected data from students and educators on the impact of 21 asynchronous online subjects on student formation, and iteratively reviewed the design conjectures. Through this iterative process we identified which design elements and pedagogies were effective in contributing to holistic student formation and developed ten design principles. These principles and the reflections offered on the process of refining design conjectures into design principles will be of interest to educators and designers in theological and other online learning contexts which aim to support holistic student formation.

CREATION AND PROMOTION OF AN ARCHITECTURAL BRAND ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE PUERTA AMERICA HOTEL IN MADRID

The work is dedicated to an important architectural object – the Hotel Puerta America in Madrid. Modern trends in architectural practice, mainly for commercial purposes, are characterized by the creation of architectural objects that are distinguished by very vivid imagery, sometimes even excessive. Such buildings are called landmark or iconic. It has been proven that Puerto America is just such an object. The article traces the stages of creating an architectural brand, promoting its image on tourist sites and perception by visitors using the example of a hotel. At the concept stage, the hotel was conceived by the executives and managers of the Spanish firm Silken Hotels as an iconic building, a place that combines different perspectives on architecture, design and art. A brief description of the main design features of the exterior and rooms, as well as public spaces such as lobbies, restaurants, bars, lounge areas, etc. is provided. What is unique is that individual authors and teams worked on the design of the hotel, implementing their ideas within the strict limits of the already existing structure. Brief information about the authors of architectural solutions is provided, among which are four Pritzker Prize laureates – Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid, Jean Nouvel and Arata Isozaki. The result of such a creative experiment was not an object belonging to any style direction, but rather a museum of architecture and design or even an architectural attraction. An analysis of the representation of hotel rooms for booking on the relevant sites has been presented, showing the inconsistency of lofty ideas, their implementation by outstanding masters in the field of architecture and design, and the quality of information about it, the lack of understanding by the managers of these sites of the uniqueness of architectural and design solutions and the importance of professional and full coverage of the main advantages of the hotel. Keywords: architecture, design, advertising, brand, hotel, artistic image.

Integrating axiomatic design and design structure matrix into model‐based systems engineering: A case study for emergency response space mission design

AbstractWith the increasing complexity of space missions due to technological advancements, model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) has become a new paradigm for systems engineering (SE), providing a more formal and accurate system engineering process while reducing costs. However, MBSE does not offer a comprehensive approach for effective system function design. This study introduces a conceptual design approach that integrates axiomatic design (AD) and design structure matrix (DSM) into the MBSE paradigm and applies it to functional and logical design. The research focuses on utilizing the design knowledge encapsulated by system models to facilitate the development of new systems. System models have the potential to bridge different design domains in AD, reveal implicit associations, and offer functional and structural analysis capabilities. To validate our approach, we conducted a case study on an Emergency Response Remote Sensing mission system. This case study demonstrates that our proposed methodology lends formality to traditional AD by deriving AD matrices and DSMs from a system model, thereby enhancing the system's structure while curtailing elemental alterations during iterative design processes. The novelty of this research lies in realizing the integration of traditional design theory with the model paradigm of SE, leading to an effective design solution during the functional and logical design stages.

A 3D Model-Based Framework for Real-Time Emergency Evacuation Using GIS and IoT Devices

Advancements in 3D modelling technology have facilitated more immersive and efficient solutions in spatial planning and user-centred design. In healthcare systems, 3D modelling is beneficial in various applications, such as emergency evacuation, pathfinding, and localization. These models support the fast and efficient planning of evacuation routes, ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and visitors, and guiding them in cases of emergency. To improve urban modelling and planning, 3D representation and analysis are used. Considering the advantages of 3D modelling, this study proposes a framework for 3D indoor navigation and employs a multiphase methodology to enhance spatial planning and user experience. Our approach combines state-of-the art GIS technology with a 3D hybrid model. The proposed framework incorporates federated learning (FL) along with edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to achieve accurate floor-level localization and navigation. In the first phase of the methodology, Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software was used to create a 3D model of the building’s architectural details, which are required for efficient indoor navigation during emergency evacuations in healthcare systems. In the second phase, the 3D model and an FL-based recurrent neural network (RNN) technique were utilized to achieve real-time indoor positioning. This method resulted in highly precise outcomes, attaining an accuracy rate over 99% at distances of no less than 10 metres. Continuous monitoring and effective pathfinding ensure that users can navigate safely and effectively during emergencies. IoT devices were connected with the building’s navigation software in Phase 3. As per the performed analysis, it was observed that the proposed framework provided 98.7% routing accuracy between different locations during emergency situations. By improving safety, building accessibility, and energy efficiency, this research addresses the health and environmental impacts of modern technologies.

Concrete Luminaires, Aesthetic Demands and Technological Challenges

Among the newly emerging design solutions in the field of interior and exterior is one that is both unusual and provocative, as well as extremely creative and artistic, namely, the use of concrete in the design of lighting fixtures. This became possible thanks to a better understanding of the potentials of this material. Concrete lighting fixtures have gained popularity due to their unique aesthetic appeal, durability, and customization options. They have a distinct industrial and minimalist design that adds a modern and contemporary touch to any space.

The Influence of Changing Belt Loading Conditions on the Operational Condition of the Belt Transmission

Given the fact that belt drives are used to transmit power to a fairly large extent, it is natural to devote scientific attention to their transmission with an effort to contribute to the constant technical and technological progress in the field of belt production and use. For testing and monitoring belt drives, a measuring system was designed and manufactured, which allowed the installation of various types of belt drives and, under a controlled load, to monitor selected parameters and the behavior of individual transmission elements. The presented contribution presents both the measuring system itself and experimental measurements on three V-belts of the same size manufactured by three different manufacturers. During the experimental measurements, parameters such as belt tension were changed by changing the axial distances of the pulley axes; by connecting electric motors through frequency converters, it was possible to control the change in the input speed of the transmission and, at the same time, the load on the output pulley. On the proposed specific design solution for testing belt drives, the actual speed of the input and output pulleys was measured by sensors to determine the belt slip, and the belt’s floating in one plane was monitored using high-precision distance measurement sensors. The analysis of the belt drives also included an assessment of their impact on other parts of the machine or equipment (for example, when transmitting large forces, this can have a negative impact on bearings and gearbox components) on which they are installed; therefore, vibration measurements were also performed. The results of the experimental measurements can contribute to designers choosing a belt drive, for example, even under boundary load parameters and extreme conditions.

Desain Kemasan Online: Solusi Kreatif dan Terjangkau untuk UMKM melalui Brand PackDe

Product packaging is an important element in creating the identity and attractiveness of a product, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This research aims to develop an online-based packaging design service through the PackDe platform that offers easy access, transparent pricing, and a variety of customizable design options. The methods used include literature study, competitor observation, and social media analysis to understand market needs and current design trends. The results show that PackDe is able to provide functional and aesthetic packaging design solutions, supporting SME product branding effectively. Nevertheless, challenges such as limited human resources and marketing need to be overcome to reach a wider market. The implications of this research show that digital-based packaging design innovation can improve the competitiveness of SME products in national and global markets. PackDe is expected to be a strategic partner for SMEs in creating packaging that is not only visually appealing but also has added value to the packaged product.

Disciples, Devotees, Scholars, and Friends

It is a long-standing and well-appreciated tradition of Docomomo International to emphasize its diversity expressed in buildings, sites, and neighborhoods due to different geography, language, education, and personalities. The term multiple modernisms has been coined to express regional, stylistic, and constructive differences in the formal and philosophical expression of Modern Movement across the globe, within the continents, and even within countries. Docomomo conferences and Docomomo Journals have used and interpreted the term over the last 30 years to express and acknowledge the diversity in the growing community of national working parties. We only need to refer to the recent Docomomo Journal no. 67 (2022) on Multiple Modernities in Ukraine1, or no. 36 (2007) on Other Modernisms2, published in parallel with the 2006 Docomomo International Conference in Istanbul and Ankara (Turkey) with the same title. Other issues highlighted local and regional particularities together and, at the same time, referenced common roots and personal links, such as the preservation technology dossier no. 13 on Perceived Technologies in the Modern Movement 1918-1975 published by the International Specialist Committee on Technology (ISC/T) in 2014. In that publication, the specific and long-term collaborations of architects with engineers and artists were explored often leading to exceptional solutions in structure, design, and function.

Views of Design Students on Improvements in Critical Thinking Through PBL in China's HyFlex Environment

This study explores how problem-based learning (PBL) in a hybrid-flexible (HyFlex) environment has affected critical thinking skills among Chinese university students. Recognizing the importance of critical thinking in producing quality design solutions, the authors involved a mixed-methods approach including quantitative research using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and qualitative analyses. Pretests and posttests with 30 students revealed significant improvements in critical thinking. The findings led to seven proposed teaching strategies, offering insights into the effectiveness of PBL and its implications for future educational practices.

Environmental Design Principles for Urban Comfort: The Pilot Case Study of Naro Municipality

Nowadays, considering the urgent issues related to climate change and land consumption as well as the increasing urban population, urban spaces, enhanced by appropriate design solutions, can help reduce risks and improve conditions of environmental well-being. In this context, thanks to a collaboration between the Department of Architecture of the University of Palermo and the Municipality of Naro, in the province of Agrigento (Sicily, Italy), an urban environmental design workshop was promoted to redefine an urban space without a precise identity and denied to public use, within the fabric of a minor historical center in the Sicilian hinterland. The article summarizes the adopted methodology, including the population needs’ assessment, the environmental context assessment, the historical analysis of the urban space to redefine within the context of the whole historical center, possible urban and greening solutions, and design references according to the urban biophilic approach. The resulting preliminary design aims to be an example of an interdisciplinary approach, respectful of what already exists, which places the comfort and well-being of the user at the center of the design. Moreover, it is an interesting example of urban regeneration through the biophilic approach applied to a small urban center, which could be replicated in other similar contexts.

Towards Point-of-Care Single Biomolecule Detection Using Next Generation Portable Nanoplasmonic Biosensors: A Review

Over the past few years, nanoplasmonic biosensors have gained widespread interest for early diagnosis of diseases thanks to their simple design, low detection limit down to the biomolecule level, high sensitivity to even small molecules, cost-effectiveness, and potential for miniaturization, to name but a few benefits. These intrinsic natures of the technology make it the perfect solution for compact and portable designs that combine sampling, analysis, and measurement into a miniaturized chip. This review summarizes applications, theoretical modeling, and research on portable nanoplasmonic biosensor designs. In order to develop portable designs, three basic components have been miniaturized: light sources, plasmonic chips, and photodetectors. There are five types of portable designs: portable SPR, miniaturized components, flexible, wearable SERS-based, and microfluidic. The latter design also reduces diffusion times and allows small amounts of samples to be delivered near plasmonic chips. The properties of nanomaterials and nanostructures are also discussed, which have improved biosensor performance metrics. Researchers have also made progress in improving the reproducibility of these biosensors, which is a major obstacle to their commercialization. Furthermore, future trends will focus on enhancing performance metrics, optimizing biorecognition, addressing practical constraints, considering surface chemistry, and employing emerging technologies. In the foreseeable future, these trends will be merged to result in portable nanoplasmonic biosensors offering detection of even a single biomolecule.

Driving Behaviour Research for Autonomous Vehicle Interaction Design: A Comprehensive Review and Future Directions

Despite the crucial role of driving behaviour research in shaping autonomous vehicle interaction design, the current state of their deep integration remains unexplored, constraining the design innovative of autonomous vehicle. This study conducted a systematic review by analysing 320 publications from 2003 to 2023 following PRISMA guidelines. Initially, the research evolution trajectory was depicted through performance analysis, followed by exploring dynamic research themes using scientific mapping. The results reveal the pivotal role of driving behaviour research in fostering innovative practices within autonomous vehicle interaction design and the evolution of thematic content. Three future directions are identified: behaviour insights of diverse interactive entities, all-in-one design solutions, and mixed-reality design evaluation tools. These findings provide practical guidance for utilizing driving behaviour research to foster innovation in AV interaction design, thereby accelerating the socialization of AVs and the transformation towards intelligent mobility.

Research on Innovative Design of Takeaway Food Packaging Materials and Functions under the Concept of Sustainable Development

In the context of global advocacy for sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the rapid expansion of the takeaway industry has resulted in a significant increase in packaging waste. Traditional food packaging materials often fail to meet environmental standards, are functionally limited, and lack innovation. This research examines how to address the functional needs of takeaway food packaging while minimizing its negative environmental impact, emphasizing innovative solutions aligned with eco-humanism development principles. By analyzing the challenges, limitations, and functional requirements of existing Chinese takeaway packaging, the study proposes design solutions that integrate sustainable development principles. Utilizing methods such as literature analysis, case studies, market research, and material experimentation, the research explores the application of new eco-friendly materials and optimization of packaging multifunctionality. The findings aim to promote sustainable practices, enhance user experiences, and reduce environmental waste, thereby supporting the green transformation of the takeaway industry. This study provides practical insights for designers, businesses, and policymakers, fostering innovation and sustainable development within the packaging industry and aligning with broader environmental goals.