Subject Code & Name: BS25302 – Product Form Design
Regulation: R-2025
Semester: III (Third Semester)
Branch: B. Des. (BDes)
Credits / L-T-P: 3 Credits | L-T-P: 3-0-0
Course Objectives
- To understand the aesthetics and semantics of product form in the context of function and user experience.
- To explore the evolution and trends in product form across cultures and design movements.
- To develop the ability to analyze, conceptualize, and articulate form in relation to material, manufacturing, and ergonomics.
- To learn methods to ideate and iterate forms through sketching, prototyping, and digital tools.
- To evaluate product forms based on visual harmony, emotional appeal, and market relevance.
Full Unit-wise Syllabus
Unit I – Introduction to Form in Product Design
Definition of form in design: shape, contour, volume, silhouette. Form vs Function: Understanding balance and tension. Historical overview of product form evolution. Iconic product forms from Bauhaus to Contemporary design. Introduction to form language and design semantics. Expressive vs restrained forms – emotional vs rational design.
Unit II – Form, Structure and Material
Structural implications of form. Influence of material choice on form and vice versa. Visual and tactile qualities of materials (wood, metal, plastic, glass, composites). Manufacturing processes and constraints on form generation. Case studies: Classic products where form follows material. Design for durability, assembly, and disassembly.
Unit III – Form Development and Exploration Techniques
2D and 3D form ideation techniques: sketching, foam modelling, CAD. Principles of form: symmetry, asymmetry, hierarchy, rhythm, contrast. Organic vs geometric forms. Exploring form through abstraction and metaphor. Exercises in form transformation: addition, subtraction, rotation, mirroring. Exploring visual weight, balance, and orientation in design.
Unit IV – User Perception and Behavior of Form
User perception and behavioral response to Form: visual appeal, emotional connection, and intuitive use – Usability and user interaction - Influence of color, texture, material finish, and proportion on perception of Form. Case studies of iconic product designs and contemporary design innovations.
Unit V – Form Strategy and Contemporary Practice
Form as brand identity – language, consistency, signature styles. Form and sustainability: minimalism, dematerialization, repairable design. Trends in product form: biomimicry, modularity, smart products. Critiquing and presenting product form: visual boards, models, mock-ups. Form development within interdisciplinary team. Case studies: Successful product redesigns based on form evolution.
Course Outcomes (COs)
- CO1: An overall understanding of product form, design principles, and visual aesthetics.
- CO2: Knowledge of form exploration techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes.
- CO3: Awareness of ergonomics, user interaction, and contemporary design trends.
- CO4: Develop the ability to create and communicate product forms through sketching and prototyping.
- CO5: Evaluate product forms based on function, aesthetics, and user experience.
Assessment Pattern (Quick Note)
- Weightage: Continuous Internal Assessment 40% | End Semester Examinations 60%
- Internal methodology: Two Assessments with equal weightage. One Assessment as Internal written Test/Examination (50%), second as Assignment (50%) of any mode such as study, seminar, and or a combination of modes, etc
Source: Official Anna University – B. Des. R-2025 Syllabus
Last Updated: September 2026
Comments
Post a Comment