Cognition in Design: Viewing the Hidden Side of the Design Process

In this paper some research findings in cognitive science are reviewed and summarized, and these findings are extended into the domain of design methodology. An understanding of the importance of the representation of design problems requires insight into the organization and utilization of knowledge which are achieved through categorization and associated cognitive processes. A hypothetical model for the design process is proposed in which a design task involves an identification process, instantiation of a concept prototype, and the subsequent adaptation of the prototype to satisfy design criteria. An informational core associated with this concept prototype is employed to facilitate reasoning and justification processes in design. These cognitive findings are incorporated into the parameter analysis methodology to encourage the creation of innovative designs in a cognitive framework.