부산대학교 도서관

Background As physical elements of products are gradually being replaced by graphical interfaces on screens and technological advancements simplify product forms, the emphasis on optimizing product shapes and applying appropriate physical elements has become crucial for product differentiation. This study aims to explore the role of prototyping, a key design methodology in configuring optimized product forms, through case studies of Apple and Dyson product development. Methods The research commences with a theoretical exploration of prototyping, with theoretical content derived from a literature review. Subsequently, case studies of Apple and Dyson product development, highlighting instances of the prototyping stage, were investigated through literature review. Based on the analyzed results, differences in the product development processes of Apple and Dyson were examined. Result Both Apple and Dyson placed significant importance on prototyping in their product development processes. However, differences in the direction of product development led to variations in the prototyping processes. While Apple prioritized design, Dyson emphasized functionality, resulting in distinctions in the execution of prototyping stages. Conclusion Through the examination of Apple and Dyson cases, the utilization of prototyping methodologies in product development was investigated. Prototypes offer a tangible representation, distinct from CAD programs, providing a sense of immediacy. Moreover, they remain a valid design method, offering the ability to generate new ideas and providing crucial clues for problem-solving in contemporary product development.