Transformer-Based Interfaces for Mechanical Assembly Design: A Gear Train Case Study

Fuente: arXiv
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Main Authors: Ataei, Mohammadmehdi, Cheong, Hyunmin, Jun, Jiwon, Matejka, Justin, Tessier, Alexander, Fitzmaurice, George
Format: Preprint
Published: 2025
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author Ataei, Mohammadmehdi
Cheong, Hyunmin
Jun, Jiwon
Matejka, Justin
Tessier, Alexander
Fitzmaurice, George
author_facet Ataei, Mohammadmehdi
Cheong, Hyunmin
Jun, Jiwon
Matejka, Justin
Tessier, Alexander
Fitzmaurice, George
contents Generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly transformer-based models, presents new opportunities for automating and augmenting engineering design workflows. However, effectively integrating these models into interactive tools requires careful interface design that leverages their unique capabilities. This paper introduces a transformer model tailored for gear train assembly design, paired with two novel interaction modes: Explore and Copilot. Explore Mode uses probabilistic sampling to generate and evaluate diverse design alternatives, while Copilot Mode utilizes autoregressive prediction to support iterative, context-aware refinement. These modes emphasize key transformer properties (sequence-based generation and probabilistic exploration) to facilitate intuitive and efficient human-AI collaboration. Through a case study, we demonstrate how well-designed interfaces can enhance engineers' ability to balance automation with domain expertise. A user study shows that Explore Mode supports rapid exploration and problem redefinition, while Copilot Mode provides greater control and fosters deeper engagement. Our results suggest that hybrid workflows combining both modes can effectively support complex, creative engineering design processes.
format Preprint
id arxiv_https___arxiv_org_abs_2504_08633
institution arXiv
publishDate 2025
record_format arxiv
spellingShingle Transformer-Based Interfaces for Mechanical Assembly Design: A Gear Train Case Study
Ataei, Mohammadmehdi
Cheong, Hyunmin
Jun, Jiwon
Matejka, Justin
Tessier, Alexander
Fitzmaurice, George
Human-Computer Interaction
Generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly transformer-based models, presents new opportunities for automating and augmenting engineering design workflows. However, effectively integrating these models into interactive tools requires careful interface design that leverages their unique capabilities. This paper introduces a transformer model tailored for gear train assembly design, paired with two novel interaction modes: Explore and Copilot. Explore Mode uses probabilistic sampling to generate and evaluate diverse design alternatives, while Copilot Mode utilizes autoregressive prediction to support iterative, context-aware refinement. These modes emphasize key transformer properties (sequence-based generation and probabilistic exploration) to facilitate intuitive and efficient human-AI collaboration. Through a case study, we demonstrate how well-designed interfaces can enhance engineers' ability to balance automation with domain expertise. A user study shows that Explore Mode supports rapid exploration and problem redefinition, while Copilot Mode provides greater control and fosters deeper engagement. Our results suggest that hybrid workflows combining both modes can effectively support complex, creative engineering design processes.
title Transformer-Based Interfaces for Mechanical Assembly Design: A Gear Train Case Study
topic Human-Computer Interaction
url https://arxiv.org/abs/2504.08633