An intelligent computer-based framework for integrating emotions and aerodynamics in sportsbike design

In today's competitive market it is critical to understand how product design connects with the consumer emotionally. Therefore, design engineers must adopt a design for emotion (DFe) approach, whilst applying fundamental principles to enhance the performance of complex artefacts, such as sportsbikes. A sportsbike cannot be designed based on aesthetics only, but rather on a balance between aesthetics and aerodynamic performance, as the design of the outer body itself is what ultimately affects the drag and lift properties. Within this context, a framework for an intelligent computer-based support system was developed, aimed at supporting designers to take emotions and aerodynamics when developing sportsbikes. A proof of concept computerbased tool was implemented and evaluated. Qualitative results gathered from an evaluation conducted with eight practicing product development stakeholders, provide a degree of evidence that the proposed framework is useful in designing sportsbikes with more emotional value and enhanced aerodynamic characteristics.