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A systematized theory of creative concept generation in design: first-order and high-order concept generation

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Abstract

This paper aims to develop a systematized theory on the thinking process at the ‘very early stage of design.’ Here, ‘very’ is used to exaggerate the beginning of design, which includes the time just prior to or the precise beginning of the so-called conceptual design. First, concept generation is segregated into two phases—the problem-driven phase and the inner sense-driven phase. With regard to theoretical approach, the concept generation process is discussed by comparing metaphor, abduction, and general design theory from the perspective of similarities and dissimilarities. In addition, property mapping, concept blending, and concept integration in thematic relation are explained methodologically. So far, these theories and methods have been discussed independently, and the relations among them have not been clarified. As a result, it was found that the concept generation process could be categorized into two types: first-order concept generation and high-order concept generation. Furthermore, it was shown that high-order concept generation is related to the inner sense-driven phase, whereas first-order concept generation is related to the problem-driven phase.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Organization of Advanced Science and Technology, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan

    Toshiharu Taura

  2. School of Knowledge Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan

    Yukari Nagai

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  1. Toshiharu Taura
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  2. Yukari Nagai
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Taura, T., Nagai, Y. A systematized theory of creative concept generation in design: first-order and high-order concept generation. Res Eng Design 24, 185–199 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-013-0152-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-013-0152-6

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