Maskinteknik: Formbestämning med AI

Sammanfattning

This report addresses the subject and effect of using AI tools for form determination in an industrial design process during the concept stage. By evaluating the AI tool Vizcom in combination with traditional software such as Catia V5, Alias and Keyshot, an understanding is established of how these tools can complement each other in a modern design process. The report then covers the execution of three separate projects, where the same design problem was solved in different ways. As a case study, a next-generation control unit for the reach truck RRE 160H from Toyota Material Handling Europe is used. The phasing out of the battery pack frees up new space and enables a redesigned control unit. Project 1 was carried out entirely traditionally in Catia V5, Alias and Keyshot without AI. Project 2 combined hand-drawn sketches with AI driven generation in Vizcom and Project 3 was conducted entirely with AI, based on reference images and prompts. Project 3 ultimately resulted in a physical 3D-printed prototype delivered to TMHE. Finally, the report addresses both the consequences and the opportunities that arise from integrating AI into the design process. The results show that AI-driven workflows reduced the time spent by up to 55% compared to traditional modelling, though the precision and predictability of the design generations still limit its use in later production-oriented stages. The report also highlights how AI may overtime change the way work is conducted within the design and engineering profession and argues that AI tools should become a natural part of future education in industrial design.