Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

The abilities of understanding spatial relations, spatial orientation, and spatial visualization affect 3D product design performance: using carton box design as an example

  • Published:
International Journal of Technology and Design Education Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) product design is an essential ability that students of subjects related to product design must acquire. The factors that affect designers’ performance in 3D design are numerous, one of which is spatial abilities. Studies have reported that spatial abilities can be used to effectively predict people’s performance in conducting complex operations. Nevertheless, few studies have explored the relationship between spatial abilities and designers’ performance in 3D product design. Spatial ability is a type of mental ability and comprises numerous factors. Carton box design is a typical type of standardized 3D product design, in which designers’ performance is affected by the spatial abilities they possess. The most crucial factor among these abilities is the space conversion ability, which is the ability to convert two-dimensional (2D) surface developments into 3D perspective views and convert 3D carton boxes into 2D plans. These operations require an in-depth perception of objects, an understanding of the relative spatial relations among objects, and spatial visualization. In this study, carton box design was used as an example to investigate, using structural equation modeling, the effects that the ability to understand spatial relations, spatial orientation, and spatial visualization have on designers’ performance in 3D product design. The results indicated that all three spatial abilities (i.e., understanding spatial relations, spatial orientation, and spatial visualization) directly influence designers’ performance in carton box design. Therefore, spatial abilities are vital factors affecting designers’ performance in 3D product design.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Alias, M., Gray, D. E., & Black, T. R. (2002). Attitudes towards sketching and drawing and the relationship with spatial visualization ability in engineering students. International Education Journal, 3(3), 165–175.

    Google Scholar 

  • Amir, S. (2002). Industrial design in Indonesia: Education, industry, and policy. Design Issues, 18(1), 36–48.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Amit, G. (2006). The definition of industrial design? It’s right there in the title. http://core77.com/reactor/08.06_amit.asp. Accessed 15 May 2013.

  • Anderson, J. C., & Gerbing, D. W. (1988). Structural equation modeling in practice: A review and recommended two-step approach. Psychological Bulletin, 103(3), 411–423.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bertoline, G. R., Wiebe, E. N., Miller, C., & Nasman, L. (1995). Engineering graphics communications. Chicago, IL: Richard D. Irwin.

    Google Scholar 

  • Black, A. A. (2005). Spatial ability and earth science conceptual understanding. Journal of Geoscience Education, 53(4), 402–414.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Branoff, T. J., & Dobelis, M. (2012). The relationship between spatial visualization ability and students’ ability to model 3D objects from engineering assembly drawings. Engineering Design Graphics Journal, 76(3), 37–43.

    Google Scholar 

  • Burton, L. J., & Dowling, D. G. (2009). Key factors that influence engineering students’ academic success: A longitudinal study. In Proceedings of the 3rd Research in Engineering Education Symposium (pp. 1–6), Cairns, Australia.

  • Carroll, J. B. (1993). Human cognitive abilities: A survey of factor-analytic studies. New York: Cambridge University Press.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Cartier, P. (2011). Most valuable aspects of educational expectation of the students in design education. Social and Behavioral Science, 15, 2187–2191.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chang, Y. C. (2011). A study on paper structure and formative variety of food package design. Master’s thesis, Choyang University of Technology, Taiwan (in Chinese).

  • Dooren, E. V., Boshuizen, E., Merriënboer, J. V., Asselbergs, T., & Dorst, M. V. (2014). Making explicit in design education: Generic elements in the design process. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 24(1), 53–71.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dori, Y. J., & Barak, M. (2001). Virtual and physical molecular modeling: Fostering model perception and spatial understanding. Educational Technology & Society, 4(1), 61–74.

    Google Scholar 

  • Dye, M. W. G., Green, C. S., & Bavelier, D. (2009). Increasing speed of processing with action video games. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 18(6), 321–326.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Evans, G. S., & Seddon, G. M. (1978). Responsiveness of Nigerian students to pictorial depth cues. Educational Communication & Technology, 26(4), 313–320.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fery, Y. A., & Ponserre, S. (2001). Enhancing the control of force in putting by video game training. Ergonomics, 44(12), 1025–1037.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fu, M. L. (2011). A study of the effects of spatial visualization ability in apparel design courses. Journal of Design Research, 43(2), 82–92.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ghozali, I. (2008). Structural equation modeling: model alternatif dengan partial least square (2nd ed.). Semarang, Indonesia: Badan Penerbit Universitas Diponegoro.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gibson, E. J. (1971). The information available in pictures. Leonardo, 4(1), 27–35.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gobert, J. (1999). Expertise in the comprehension of architectural plans: Contribution of representation and domain knowledge. In J. S. Gero & B. Tversky (Eds.), Visual and spatial reasoning (pp. 185–205). Sydney, Australia: University of Sydney.

    Google Scholar 

  • Goodman, N. (1968). Languages of art: An approach to a theory of symbols. Indianapolis, IN: Bobbs-Merrill.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gopher, D., Weil, M., & Bareket, T. (1994). Transfer of skill from a computer game trainer to flight. Human Factors, 36(3), 387–405.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hair, J. F., Black, W. C., Babin, B. J., & Anderson, R. E. (2010). Multivariate data analysis (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hegarty, M., & Sims, V. K. (1994). Individual differences in mental animation during mechanical reasoning. Memory and Cognition, 22(4), 411–430.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hicks, B. J., Mullineux, G., & Sirkett, D. (2009). A finite element-based approach for whole-system simulation of packaging systems for their improved design and operation. Packaging Technology and Science, 22(4), 209–227.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hsu, M. (2014). Paper Finds Its Way into the Furniture Market–Taiwanese manufacturers adopt the material of the future. China Economic News Service. http://www.cens.com/cens/html/en/news/news_inner_47239.html. Accessed 01 September 2015.

  • Hu, L., & Bentler, P. M. (1998). Fit indices in covariance structure modeling: Sensitivity to under parameterization model misspecification. Psychological Methods, 3(4), 424–453.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Huk, T. (2006). Who benefits from learning with 3D models? The case of spatial ability. Journal of Computer Assisted learning, 22(6), 392–404.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jöreskog, K. G. (1979). Analyzing psychological data by structural analysis of covariance matrices. In J. Magidson (Ed.), Advances in factor analysis and structural equation models. Cambridge, MA: Abt Associates.

    Google Scholar 

  • Jöreskog, K., & Sörbom, D. (1993). LISREL 8 user’s reference guide. Chicago, IL: Scientific Software International.

    Google Scholar 

  • Klimchuk, M. R., & Krasovec, S. A. (2006). Packaging design: Successful product branding from concept to shelf. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kline, R. B. (1998). Principles and practice of structural equation modeling. New York: The Guilford Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Koksal, G., & Egitman, A. (1998). Planning and design of industrial engineering education quality. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 35(3–4), 639–642.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kosslyn, S. M. (1981). Research on mental imagery: Some goals and direction. Cognition, 10(1–3), 173–179.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Krejcie, R. V., & Morgan, D. W. (1970). Determining sample size for research activities. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 30(3), 607–610.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kumar, K. (2003). Design curricula for Africa. ICSID Africa Regional Report (pp. 34–35).

  • Laisney, P., & Pascale, B. P. (2015). Role of graphics tools in the learning design process. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 25(1), 109–119.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Leung, S. Y. S., Wong, W. K., & Mok, P. Y. (2008). Multiple-objective genetic optimization of the spatial design for packing and distribution carton boxes. Computers and Industrial Engineering, 54(4), 889–902.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Liao, K. H. (1999). The study of influence factor of achievement in organic stereochemistry and Problem solving model, Unpublished doctoral dissertation, National Taiwan Normal University, Taiwan.

  • Liao, K. H., Yen, C. H., & Yang, F. Y. (2013). Using the multi-process analysis method to study innovation of everyday items: The leisure bicycle. International Journal of Systematic Innovation, 2(3), 1–12. (Chinese version).

    Google Scholar 

  • Lin, C. H. (2012). Introduction to design theory: New design concept thinking and analysis. Taipei, Taiwan: Chuan Hwa Book. (in Chinese).

    Google Scholar 

  • Lin, H. Y., & Lee, Y. S. (2010). The effects of spatial short-term memory, spatial working memory and spatial ability on performance in engineering graphics. Journal of Design, 15(4), 1–18.

    Google Scholar 

  • Lin, H. Y., Lee, Y. S., & Chen, Y. C. (2012). An investigation into the relationship between digit ratio and spatial ability. Journal of Design, 17(1), 25–40.

    Google Scholar 

  • Linn, M., & Petersen, A. (1985). Emergence and characterization of sex differences in spatial ability: A meta-analysis. Child Development, 56(6), 1479–1498.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Liu, W., & Tai, K. (2007). Optimal design of flat patterns for 3D folded structures by unfolding with topological validation. Computer-Aided Design, 39(10), 898–913.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lohman, D. (1979). Spatial ability: A review and reanalysis of the correlational literature (Vol. 8). Stanford, CA: School of Education, Stanford University.

    Google Scholar 

  • Lohman, D. (1988). Spatial abilities as traits, processes, and knowledge. In R. J. Sternberg (Ed.), Advances in the psychology of human intelligence (Vol. 4, pp. 181–248). Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.

    Google Scholar 

  • Lord, T. R. (1987). A look at spatial abilities in undergraduate women science majors. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 24(8), 757–767.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Luh, D. B., & Chen, S. N. (2013). A novel CAI system for space conceptualization training in perspective sketching. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 23(1), 147–160.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • MacCallum, R., Browne, M., & Sugawara, H. (1996). Power analysis and determination of sample size for covariance structure modeling. Psychological Methods, 1(2), 130–149.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Macnab, W., & Johnstone, A. H. (1990). Spatial skills which contribute to competence in the biological science. Journal of Biological Education, 24(1), 37–41.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Magin, D., & Churches, A. (1996). Gender differences in spatial abilities of entering first year students: What should be done? In Proceedings of the 8th AAEE annual convention and conference (pp. 95–99). Sydney, Australia: Australasian Association for Engineering Education.

  • Marunic, G., & Glazar, V. (2013). Spatial ability through engineering graphics education. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 23(3), 703–715.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • McGee, M. (1979). Human spatial abilities: Psychometric studies and environmental, genetic, hormonal, and neurological influences. Psychological Bulletin, 86(5), 889–918.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Miyake, A., Friedman, N. P., Rettinger, D. A., Shah, P., & Hegarty, M. (2001). How are visuospatial working memory, executive functioning, and spatial abilities related? A latent-variable analysis. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 130(4), 621–640.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Naveiro, R. M., & Pereira, R. C. S. (2008). Viewpoint design education in Brazil. Design Studies, 29(3), 304–312.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Neisser, U., Boodoo, G., Bouchard, T. J, Jr, Boykin, A. W., Brody, N., Ceci, S. J., & Urbina, S. (1996). Intelligence: Knowns and unknowns. American Psychologist, 51(2), 77–101.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ness, W. V., & Thresher, G. (2001). Reduced material box design for round objects. US Pat. US6199692 B1.

  • Newcombe, N. S. (2010). Increasing math and science learning by improving spatial thinking. American Educator, 34(2), 29–35.

    Google Scholar 

  • Norman, D. (2010). Why design education must change. http://www.jnd.org/dn.mss/design.html. Accessed 10 May 2013.

  • Olkun, S. (2003). Making connections: Improving spatial abilities with engineering drawing activities. International Journal of Mathematics Teaching and Learning, 3(1), 1–10.

    Google Scholar 

  • Paine, F. A. (1991). Folding boxboard cartons. In F. A. Paine (Ed.), The packaging user’s handbook (pp. 162–194). New York: AVI-Van Nostrand Reinhold.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Pathare, P. B., & Opara, U. L. (2014). Structural design of corrugated boxes for horticultural produce: A review. Biosystems Engineering, 125, 128–140.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Potter, C., & van der Merwe, E. (2001). Spatial ability, visual imagery and academic performance in engineering graphics. In Proceeding of international conference on engineering education (pp. 7B5-1–7). Oslo, Norway: International Network for Engineering Education and Research.

  • Puente, S. M. G., Eijck, M. V., & Jochems, W. (2013). A sampled literature review of design-based learning approaches: A search for key characteristics. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 23(3), 717–732.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rafi, A., Khairulanuar, S., & Che Soh, S. (2008). Training in spatial visualization: The effects of training method and gender. Educational Technology and Society, 11(3), 127–140.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rosser, J. C., Lynch, P. J., Cuddihy, L., Gentile, D. A., Klonsky, J., & Merrell, R. (2007). The impact of video games on training surgeons in the 21st century. Archives of Surgery, 142(2), 181–186.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Samsudin, K., Rafi, A., & Hanif, A. S. (2011). Training in mental rotation and spatial visualization and its impact on orthographic drawing performance. Educational Technology and Society, 14(1), 179–186.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sanchez, C. A. (2012). Enhancing visuospatial performance through video game training to increase learning in visuospatial science domains. Psychonomic Bulletin and Review, 19(1), 58–65.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Siegel, R. S. (2008). Getting a design job, 2008 Edition. Industrial Designers Society of America. http://www.ritasue.com/downloads/Get_a_Design_Job_2008.pdf. Accessed 12 May 2013.

  • Smith, G. G., & Olkun, S. (2005). Why interactivity works: Interactive priming of mental rotation. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 32(2), 93–111.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sorby, S. A. (1999). Developing 3-D spatial visualization skills. Engineering Design Graphics Journal, 63(2), 21–32.

    Google Scholar 

  • Takashi, K. (1990). Food ackaging. San Diego, CA: Academic Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Tomas, N. (2003). Basic testing and strength design of corrugated board and containers. Doctoral thesis, Division of Structural Mechanics, Lund University, Sweden.

  • Tuckey, H. P., & Selvaratnam, M. (1993). Studies involving three-dimensional visualization skills in chemistry. Study in Science Research, 21(1), 99–121.

    Google Scholar 

  • Tuckey, H. P., Selvaratnam, M., & Bradley, J. D. (1991). Identification and recitation of student difficulties concerning three-dimensional structures, rotation and reflection. Journal of Chemical Education, 68(6), 460–464.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tweede, D., & Selke, S. E. M. (2005). Cartons, crates and corrugated board: Handbook of paper and wood packaging (p. 24). Lancaster, PA: DESTech Publications.

    Google Scholar 

  • Wanzel, K. R., Hamstra, S. J., Anastakis, D. J., Matsumoto, E. D., & Cusimano, M. D. (2002). Effect of visual-spatial ability on learning of spatially-complex surgical skills. The Lancet, 359(9302), 230–231.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Workman, J. E., & Caldwell, L. F. (2007). Effects of training in apparel design and product development on spatial visualization skills. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 25(1), 42–57.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wu, H. K. (2004). Exploring visuospatial thinking in chemistry learning. Science Education, 88(3), 465–492.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wu, C. K. (2010). A study on the design of the paper-box package. Master’s thesis, Leader University, Taiwan (in Chinese).

  • Xiaozhou, Z., Bennell, J. A., Bektaş, T., & Dowsland, K. (2014). Comparative review of 3D container loading algorithms. International Transactions in Operational Research,. doi:10.1111/itor.12094.

    Google Scholar 

  • Yang, F. X. (1997). Exploring the technology of structural in carton box design. Pulp and Paper Monthly, 18(3), 40–46. (in Chinese).

    Google Scholar 

  • Yang, M. Y., You, M. L., & Chen, F. C. (2005). Competencies and qualifications for industrial design jobs: Implications for design practice, education, and student career guidance. Design Studies, 26(2), 155–189.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yasemin, E. Y. (2013). Effects of spatial experiences and cognitive styles in the solution process of space-based design problems in the first year of architectural design education. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 23(4), 1005–1015.

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgments

This research was sponsored by the National Science Council, Taiwan (No. NSC 102-2221-E-434-003). The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Product Development and Design, Taiwan Shoufu University, No. 168, Nanshi Li, Madou District, Tainan, Taiwan

    Kun-Hsi Liao

Authors
  1. Kun-Hsi Liao
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Kun-Hsi Liao.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Liao, KH. The abilities of understanding spatial relations, spatial orientation, and spatial visualization affect 3D product design performance: using carton box design as an example. Int J Technol Des Educ 27, 131–147 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-015-9330-3

Download citation

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-015-9330-3

Keywords

Search

Navigation