With the rapid advancement of generative AI, most industries are entering a new phase. Generative AI is being utilized across a wide range of fields, including design. Consequently, this study explored the application of AI in the product design field and integrated it into the design process. The goal was to identify the differences between traditional product design processes and those enhanced by AI. Through this research, the potential of AI in product design was confirmed, and future methods of its application were investigated. First, the study considered the domains of human and AI design separately. AI's role was seen as generating and displaying various images, while humans decided on keywords and concrete designs. Next, experimental results indicated that at crucial moments in the design process, the designer’s ability and judgment in selecting designs remained important. Additionally, the effective use of prompts through questions became crucial in applying generative AI. Language, as the culmination of human knowledge and the most fundamental means of expression, plays a critical role. Ultimately, the effectiveness and efficiency of AI usage will depend on the user's level of knowledge in the respective field or their ability to extract knowledge from AI learning. As AI technology advances, paradigms across all industries are shifting. This phenomenon will merge with traditional design methods, resulting in an evolved form of design approach.
Oh et al. (2024) studied this question.