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The Design Research Laboratory at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Ropar is dedicated to advancing research and teaching in design research. Our focus encompasses design theory and methodology, design methods, and effective problem-solving strategies. Established in 2012, the Design Research Lab serves as a hub for innovation and exploration in these areas.
Design research examines the processes involved in designing products, processes, and services. Its primary goal is to develop new knowledge and skills in design, along with methods for their effective application. Through this research, we create design methods and tools that enhance productivity and enable designers to create superior products.
Focus Areas of the Design Research Laboratory (DRL)
The Design Research Laboratory currently emphasizes research in the following areas:
Product Design and Development: We investigate the engineering and product design process through design experiments, leading to the development of supportive tools and methodologies based on empirical evidence and research.
Design Creativity and Innovation: Our aim is to empower designers to generate innovative solutions. We achieve this by creating tailored tools, methodologies, and software that facilitate creative processes.
Design Theory and Methodology: We explore fundamental design theories and methodologies, focusing on design methods and effective problem-solving strategies.
Sustainable Design and Manufacturing: We develop evidence-based solutions supported by real-world data collected from industry partners. Our focus is on creating sustainable designs and eco-friendly products through sustainable manufacturing practices.
Engineering Aesthetics: Funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, our research in engineering aesthetics has led to a deep understanding of design principles, particularly in the context of automobile design.
Our commitment to these research areas ensures that we contribute valuable insights and innovations to the field of design, ultimately benefiting both designers and the industries they serve.
Courses Supported by the Lab
Our lab supports several academic courses, including:
Sustainable Design and Manufacturing (Postgraduate)
Design Research Methodology (Postgraduate)
Computer Aided Design of Manufacturing Systems (Postgraduate)
Product Design and Realization I (Undergraduate)
Product Design and Realization II (Undergraduate)
Our mission is to foster an environment where students and researchers can thrive in the field of design, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex engineering challenges.
Lab Activities
The Design Research Lab engages in a variety of activities aimed at enhancing the understanding and application of design processes, specifically within mechanical engineering. Our key initiatives include:
Investigating the Design Process: We explore the intricacies of the design process, with a particular focus on mechanical engineering design. This we do using data based on design experiments with real designers and engineers.
Developing New Design Methodologies: Our team works on creating innovative design methodologies to enhance the overall design process.
Conducting Design Experiments: Collaborating with experienced designers, we conduct experiments to gain deeper insights into the design process and identify effective design strategies.
Creating Software Tools: We develop software solutions aimed at improving design practices and efficiency.
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