The mediation of Design – The integration between autonomous artificial agents, manufacturing production, and services

Authors

  • Flaviano Celaschi University of Bologna (Italy)
  • Giorgio Casoni University of Bologna (Italy)
  • Elena Formia University of Bologna (Italy)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19229/2464-9309/16282024

Keywords:

autonomous artificial agents, machine economy, design, industry 4.0, artificial intelligence

Abstract

This paper analyses the emergence of Autonomous Artificial Agents (AAA) and their impact on design in the era of Industry 4.0. Equipped with decision-making abilities, AAA is transforming the design of products and services and the relationship between production and consumption, leading to the introduction of new economic actors, such as ‘machine customers’. Through case study analysis in the Italian industrial context, this paper explores the implementation of these advanced technologies in business processes and invites reflection on the role of designers in the age of intelligent machines, suggesting a responsible approach that considers the ethical and social implications. Finally, future perspectives related to the widespread adoption of AAA are discussed, focusing on the evolution of the programmable economy and its effects on design and businesses.

 

Article info

Received: 09/09/2024; Revised: 22/10/2024; Accepted: 23/10/2024

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Author Biographies

Flaviano Celaschi, University of Bologna (Italy)

Architect and PhD, he is a Full Professor of Design at the Department of Architecture. He conducts research in Design-driven innovation and foresight (Advanced Design). He founded and directed applied research centres in Italy (POLI.Design in 1999 and C.R.I.C.C in 2018) and international Universities and companies.
E-mail: flaviano.celaschi@unibo.it

Giorgio Casoni, University of Bologna (Italy)

Economist, Research Fellow, and Member of the Advanced Design Unit at the Department of Architecture, he conducts research primarily in innovation management. He is a co-Founder and CEO of Neocogita, a company that develops neurotechnology systems and services for corporate wellness management and improvement.
E-mail: giorgio.casoni@unibo.it

Elena Formia, University of Bologna (Italy)

Architect and PhD, she is a Full Professor of Design at the Department of Architecture, where she collaborates with the Research Group on Advanced Design. Since 2019, she has coordinated the Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Design. Her research focuses on the history and culture of design, investigating the contribution of human and social sciences to design.
E-mail: elena.formia@unibo.it

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Integration of technologies in Product Service System Design (credit: Flaviano Celaschi, Giorgio Casoni, Elena Formia, 2024). AGATHÓN 16 | 2024

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Published

30-12-2024

How to Cite

Celaschi, F., Casoni, G. and Formia, E. (2024) “The mediation of Design – The integration between autonomous artificial agents, manufacturing production, and services”, AGATHÓN | International Journal of Architecture, Art and Design, 16, pp. 334–343. doi: 10.19229/2464-9309/16282024.

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