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AI-assisted design · Practical guide

What generative design needs from your brief

The constraints shape the answer

Generative design starts with a defined problem. The useful inputs are the connections to keep, the space to avoid and the criteria used to compare the resulting shapes.

Discuss your part
Design-space diagram showing preserved interfaces and keep-clear spacePART DESIGN · ILLUSTRATIONKEEP INTERFACES · RESERVE CLEAR SPACE
Design illustration. Your part is developed around your own brief.

Tell the design what must stay and what must stay clear

In a generative design study, preserved geometry defines features that remain in the result. Obstacle geometry identifies space the generated body must avoid. Autodesk documents these as separate parts of the design space, which is why an accurate component layout matters before exploring a new shape.

For a custom-parts brief, mark the mounting faces and holes you must retain. Then identify neighbouring components, tool access and moving areas that the new body must leave clear. A simple annotated drawing can make these requirements easier to discuss.

Compare options against an agreed goal

A candidate shape needs to be judged against the original brief. Ask what you are trying to improve, what must remain unchanged and how you would check the result. A different-looking body is not a useful outcome unless it addresses that design question.

Our AI-assisted design enquiries cover the discussion, model development and printed prototypes stated in the quote. If a formal generative or simulation study is needed, make that requirement explicit so its inputs, deliverables and review can be agreed.

Further reading: Autodesk: defining the generative design space.

Questions about how generative design works

Is generative design the same as making an AI image?

No. A generated image can communicate a visual idea. A constraint-based design study operates on a defined design problem, and a manufacturable model still needs the appropriate geometry and review.

Do I need to name the software in my enquiry?

Only if your project requires a particular tool or file workflow. Start with the part and its requirements; the quote can then state the design work and deliverables proposed.

Start with what you have

Send your references and tell us what the part needs to do. We’ll agree the design scope, price and lead time before work begins.

Request an AI-assisted part quote