Physical modeling as an attribute design strategy of a new product

In this exploratory study a teaching experience in which conceptual design was addressed using the systemic approach by Hernandis and Briede of 2009, but covering the integration of the theoretical attributes of the product in a physical model of the design's space is described and analyzed. This strategy aims at facilitating the management and transfer of the theoretical attributes that are integrated in the design's space for the final design proposal. In the study, a perception survey was applied to students of the user-centered design workshop of the year 2013, offered by the Dept. of Art and Design Technologies of the University of Bío-Bío, in Chile. The results indicate that the construction process allowed students to connect theory with their application in the final design. The physical modeling, as didactic support, facilitated the analysis and decision-making process related to the application of the theoretical concepts already studied.