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In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.

Evaluating large language models for technology-oriented searches in engineering design

Koutsouvelis, Vasileios (1); Silipigni, Filippo (2); Becattini, Niccolò (1)

Type:
Papers
DS 145: Proceedings of the DESIGN2026 19th International Design Conference
Year:
2026
Editor:
Štorga, M.; Škec, S.; Martinec, T.; Marjanović, D.; Pavković, N.
Author:
Koutsouvelis, Vasileios (1); Silipigni, Filippo (2); Becattini, Niccolò (1)
Series:
DESIGN
Institution:
1: Politecnico di Milano, Italy; 2: Fondazione Politecnico di Milano, Italy
Page(s):
2393-2402
DOI number:
10.1017/pds.2026.10597
ISSN:
2732-527X (Online)
Abstract:
This study evaluates the efficacy of various freely available Large Language Models (LLMs) in conducting semi-automated purpose-oriented technology searches to support design activities as well as Technology Intelligence for innovation management, using a systematic manual search as a baseline for comparison. The case to run the comparison focuses on identifying water purification technologies suitable for mobile systems. The results show that LLMs can target more technologies than human-based searches, reducing time demands and providing wider entry points for additional technology analysis.
Keywords:
early design phase, artificial intelligence (AI), supportive technologies, information retrieval, design strategy
DESIGN2026 - The 19th International Design Conference
Conferences

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