University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Enhancing technical accessibility: AI-powered conversational assistant and augmented reality-assisted 3D printing software for novice users

Xu, Shengyang

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/120139

Description

Title
Enhancing technical accessibility: AI-powered conversational assistant and augmented reality-assisted 3D printing software for novice users
Author(s)
Xu, Shengyang
Issue Date
2023-05-03
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Weightman, David
Committee Member(s)
  • Goldstein, Molly
  • Kendall, James
Department of Study
Art & Design
Discipline
Art and Design
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
M.F.A.
Degree Level
Thesis
Keyword(s)
3D printing, AR, AI, Tech accessibility, UIUX
Abstract
The growing popularity of 3D printing technology has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by enabling manufacturers to produce complex designs and prototypes rapidly and efficiently. However, the complexity of the software user interface and the printing process itself poses significant challenges for novice users like 3D printing enthusiasts, design students, etc. This paper discusses the current challenges in 3D printing and highlights the need for more accessible and user-friendly tools for enhancing 3D technology accessibility. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a software solution that leverages augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to create an interactive and user-friendly software called “3D PrintEasy”. This guides novice users through the 3D printing process and provides real-time feedback to improve their prints. This software also includes a conversational assistant that can answer user questions and provide helpful tips. This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on the integration of AI and AR technologies in the manufacturing industry and emphasizes the importance of considering the needs of beginners when designing software solutions for 3D printing technology. The proposed software has the potential to greatly enhance the accessibility and usability of 3D printing technology for beginners and revolutionize the way beginners learn and interact with 3D printing technology.
Graduation Semester
2023-05
Type of Resource
Thesis
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2023 Shengyang Xu

Owning Collections

Graduate Dissertations and Theses at Illinois PRIMARY
Graduate Theses and Dissertations at Illinois