Discovery & Ideation | Parametric Modeling | Polygon Modeling / CAS | Class A Surfacing | Visualisations

Process

We define details for leading Automotive brands for over 14 years

At our core, we are specialized in pushing the boundaries of design and engineering by combining their needs. Through a meticulous strak process, we ask the right questions and define key details to unlock the full potential of any product.

What is Strak?

Strak, also known as Class A Surfacing, originated from the ship and aircraft construction industry. It’s a technique that considers both technical and aesthetic requirements to create harmonious and aerodynamic structures. By bringing together the needs of all departments involved in product development, Strak serves as a bridge to seamlessly translate them into the final product.

This approach can help:

  • Achieve the highest possible quality standards.
  • Enhance collaboration between design, engineering, and production teams to achieve greater synergy.
  • Reduce problem-solving time by implementing a systematic approach.
  • Minimize the need for design revisions by utilizing a comprehensive approach.
  • Streamline the development process through careful planning and communication.
  • Optimize both the technical and visual aspects of the product to ensure superior performance and aesthetic appeal.

 

Class A Surfacing Neon concept

Discovery & Ideation phase

From idea to first concept

The first stage involves gathering information about the client’s needs and goals. This phase includes client consultation, research, and analysis to understand the client’s business, target audience, and competitors.

After this ideation phase the creative process begins. The team brainstorms concepts and ideas based on the information gathered in the discovery phase. Sketches and mood boards are created to explore various design directions.

Design and Modeling

From sketches to 3D models

2D-3D polygon modeling helps to define designs in 3 dimensional geometry in order to solve the geometry issues in between the main views.
Generating 3d representations of design allows to see all intersections and how they influence the entire design.

Polygon Modeling

Quickly generated representation of the design idea.

Software used: Maya, Blender, C4D

CAS

Quick conversion of sketches, scan data and other design or technical inputs into well structured 3D surfaces.

Software used: Autodesk Alias, ICEM Surf

Parametric Design

Creation of complex patterns with Bézier surfaces, ready for further development.

Software used: Rhino 7 + Grasshopper

Parametric design

Polygon Modeling

Class A Surfaces with edgesClass A higlight

Class A Surfacing

Refining every detail to create highest quality surfaces

Strak or Class A surfacing was invented in ship and aircraft construction to build harmonically shaped and aerodynamic bodies. It requires the highest degree of precision and attention to detail, as any imperfections or irregularities in the digital model can be seen on the final product. The last 1% can determining the overall look and feel of a product, as well as its perceived value and market appeal.

High-Quality Surface Finish

Class A surfacing produces a smooth, uniform, and visually appealing surface finish, which is essential for products where aesthetics are important. It guarantees that every line and detail coresponds to other elements making the whole product consistently appealing. 

Improved Tooling and Manufacturing Efficiency
Class A surfacing enables more precise tooling designs and fewer manufacturing errors decreases the need for post-production work, resulting in faster delivery times, reduced costs and improved product quality.
Enhanced Brand Perception

By using Class A surfacing, companies can create visually appealing products with high quality, what enhance brand perception and builds brand recognition and loyalty.

Greater Design Freedom
Class A surfacing allows designers greater freedom to create complex shapes and surfaces, resulting in more innovative and unique product designs. Accurate Curvature Control allows for producing organic shapes and complex surfaces that fulfill all engineering and manufacturing requirements.

Visualisations

Visualising the final products

Visualisation services are an essential part of the design process that can help companies save time and increase efficiency in many areas of product development and marketing, allowing them to bring products to market faster and more effectively.

Improved Communication

Visualisations communicate complex information and ideas more clearly and effectively, allowing customers to see and understand the features, benefits, and overall value of a product.

Increased Engagement

Visualisations capture customers’ attention and engage them on an emotional level, creating a stronger connection to the product and brand. This can help to drive sales and build brand loyalty.

Enhanced Product Development

Visualisations help product development teams to evaluate and refine designs, identify potential issues or challenges, and make informed decisions about the product’s features, functionality, and overall design. This can result in a better product and more efficient development process.

Competitive Advantage

Visualisations help companies differentiate themselves from competitors and stand out in a crowded market. By presenting their products in a visually compelling and engaging way, companies can create a more positive and memorable impression in the minds of potential customers, which can help to drive sales and grow the business.

Ready to get started?

Contact us

+49 531/618 333 38
mail@designsurf.de