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Knowledge Base Repository

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.

Structured prompting for design for multi-X: evaluating LLM support in early prosthetic device design

Mercieca, Adrian; Farrugia, Philip; Borg, Jonathan

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:
Mercieca, Adrian; Farrugia, Philip; Borg, Jonathan
Series:
DESIGN
Institution:
University of Malta, Malta
Page(s):
2463-2472
DOI number:
10.1017/pds.2026.10604
ISSN:
2732-527X (Online)
Abstract:
This paper investigates how prompt structure influences the use of Large Language Models in early engineering design. A structured prompting framework aligned with the engineering design cycle is proposed to support Design for Multi X reasoning and more coherent problem exploration. Using a prosthetic knee-cover case study, six engineering designers engaged with both generic and structured prompting workflows. A mixed methods study examines how prompt organisation shapes LLM assisted reasoning, problem framing and the articulation of design constraints and considerations.
Keywords:
prompt engineering, LLM-assisted design, artificial intelligence (AI), design for x (DfX), prosthetic device design
DESIGN2026 - The 19th International Design Conference
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