ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of emotions in product design. Outputs of the human mind’s interaction with the external world may be processed into inputs to inform the design process. Social, economic, and cultural frameworks affect individuals and institutions, actively participating with emotions to define reality. Addressing cognitive, affective, and social dimensions legitimizes choices in product development. This study also supports the creation of territorial network systems as opportunities for new semantic paths and knowledge sharing. Concerning the design of a new line of lighting appliances, enterprises from three different sectors, lighting appliances, raw materials, and entertainment, collaborate towards a better product, performance, environment, and quality of life. The Altempo Design Research Group will mediate this action, the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (Portugal) team, and the Research Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Design (CIAUD). In methodological terms, the study presents a qualitative-based non-interventionist approach, aiming to prove that a modus operandi that fosters interaction among all the intervening parties constitutes an action of redesign with the potential to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, communities, market sectors, and the environment.
