A BIOMIMETIC APPROACH FOR GENERATING CONCEPT IN EARLY DESIGN STAGE: THE DESIGN ACTIVITY MODEL

Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to consider biomimicry as an approach to produce concepts that are based on innovative design concepts in the early design phase in product design. Method: This study is in four stages. In the first stage, the basis of the concept development and biomimetic design approach was explored. In the second stage, activity layers’ of biomimicry integrated (bio-integrated) concept generation have been determined by taking the concept of biomimetic design into consideration in terms of integration into early design phase in line with the information obtained through research. In the third stage, a series of applied study involving researchers and graduate architecture students were carried out. In the final stage, design activity model of bio-integrated concept generation has been presented. Results: It has been seen that the bio-integrated concept generation is valid in concept generation in design. It is effective to create a design exit point. In this context, it can be used as an alternative to creative thinking techniques such as six hats, brainstorming, lateral thinking, which designers use to develop the concept. In the professional processes, while concepts are concentrated in the direction of production oriented and existing technological / market development, conceptual studies in design education are at the forefront. Therefore, it was determined that a high potential for use in design education. Conclusion: With this study, it is concluded that the bio-integrated concept generation can be a linguistic and productive creative thinking approach that can be used effectively in conceptual studies and in visionary concept studies in professional design processes.