Processo projetual paramétrico visando a fabricação digital : desenvolvimento e aplicação em mobiliário flexível para usuários de habitações compactas

Abstract

The digital fabrication process has several characteristics that must be considered to ensure that the final product is adequate. Currently, this process is carried out empirically, without following a specific framework or model. To address this issue, a process for project was created based on a taxonomy for digital fabrication, aiming to facilitate understanding and the creation of products using digital fabrication, grounded in three pillars: User Experience (UX), Parametric Design Thinking (PDT), and Technology Readiness Levels (TRL). It is desirable that the user be at the center of the design process, with their needs understood and addressed—something that often does not happen, especially in the case of compact housing, notably Social Housing (HIS). Parametric design enables more efficient solutions and forms by considering aspects such as distances, proportions, dimensions, volumes, geographic conditions, and regional materials. It also allows the exploration of multiple design alternatives for selection and refinement, helping to avoid rework and unnecessary costs, while providing greater control over the object through easy manipulation. These factors facilitate mass customization at costs comparable to standardization. When combined with digital fabrication, which allows for material optimization, reduced waste, and greater precision, production costs can be significantly lowered. The Design Science Research (DSR) method was used to achieve the study's objectives. As part of the process development, a flexible piece of furniture—a dining/work table—was designed simultaneously. Initially, semantic and synchronic analyses were conducted to understand the opportunities offered by flexible furniture and to identify existing types. In parallel, the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) framework proposed by Mankins (1995) was applied to assess and support evaluations of technological maturity. The selected material was marine plywood, and the manufacturing processes used were CNC milling and laser cutting, reaching TRL level 6. To assist this process a conceptual model tool was created to provided a clear organization of the stages, enabling the documentation and analysis of the different phases involved in creating or modifying processes. This facilitated decision-making and adjustments at each step, reduced time spent, improved product quality, ensured clear documentation and continuous evaluation, and supported the development of user-centered products. It also allowed for systematization and replicability in different contexts and projects.