Institutional Repository
Technical University of Crete
Technical University of Crete
EN
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EL
| URI | http://purl.tuc.gr/dl/dias/12D85856-A38E-4B23-BF0C-38D0553C802E | - |
| Identifier | https://doi.org/10.26233/heallink.tuc.102032 | - |
| Language | en | - |
| Extent | 121 pages | en |
| Title | Revolutionizing furniture: A sustainable approach to customized design and manufacturing | en |
| Creator | Zygoulis Nikolaos | en |
| Creator | Ζυγουλης Νικολαος | el |
| Contributor [Thesis Supervisor] | Karagiannis Ilias | en |
| Contributor [Thesis Supervisor] | Καραγιαννης Ηλιας | el |
| Contributor [Committee Member] | Tsafarakis Stelios | en |
| Contributor [Committee Member] | Τσαφαρακης Στελιος | el |
| Contributor [Committee Member] | Kouikoglou Vasileios | en |
| Contributor [Committee Member] | Κουϊκογλου Βασιλειος | el |
| Publisher | Πολυτεχνείο Κρήτης | el |
| Publisher | Technical University of Crete | en |
| Academic Unit | Technical University of Crete::School of Production Engineering and Management | en |
| Academic Unit | Πολυτεχνείο Κρήτης::Σχολή Μηχανικών Παραγωγής και Διοίκησης | el |
| Description | The furniture industry is undergoing a significant transition. This thesis explores a novel methodology for customized and sustainable products, that integrates advanced parametric design, digital twin technologies, CNC automation and design principles to address emerging demands on mass manufacturing and customization. By bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technological advancements, this research provides a potential pathway for achieving scalable customization and environmental responsibility in furniture production. This work evaluates the feasibility and market readiness for implementing Mass Customization -a manufacturing approach that combines the efficiency of mass production with the personalization of bespoke furniture. Through literature analysis and empirical validation via semi-structured interviews with professionals of the furniture industry in Greece this thesis provides an understanding of the industry’s current state, including operational realities and evolving consumer expectations. The study identifies critical barriers such as labor shortages, technological unfamiliarity, operational complexities and resistance to change. It also highlights the potential for leveraging digital transformation and streamlined parametric workflows to enhance customer engagement. Key findings underscore the transformative importance of digital twin-driven customization platforms, which will allow real-time modifications to furniture specifications while minimizing disruption to production workflows. This thesis contributes to the academic and practical discourse on transforming furniture manufacturing into a more agile, innovative and environmentally responsible sector by proposing actionable strategies for stakeholders in the sector. It advocates for a holistic approach to integrating technology and client-centric solutions and it sets a roadmap to the future of furniture design and production. This thesis document has been prepared over a five-month period according to the criteria set by the Technology and Innovation Management master’s program at the University of Crete, while the original idea dates to December 2021. This thesis is entirely my own original work. | en |
| Content Summary | Thesis Proposal I am writing to present an ambitious and innovative master’s thesis proposal for the Technology and Innovation Management program at the University of Crete. Building on my diverse background in architecture, design, and woodworking, I propose to develop a Business Plan for a Sustainable Real-Time Customizable Furniture Design and Manufacturing Service. This project is not merely an academic endeavor but a preliminary blueprint for a future startup. The Concept: My vision is to create a business that revolutionizes furniture design by offering customers the ability to customize their furniture in real-time through an advanced online platform. This service will be backed by a sustainable manufacturing process that uses eco-friendly materials and modern techniques like CNC milling, 3D printing, and laser cutting. Project Objectives: • Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan: Detailing the market, operational strategy, financial projections, and sustainability approach. • Establish the Infrastructure Blueprint: Outlining the necessary buildings, machinery, and personnel needed to launch the business. • Lay the Groundwork for Future Website Development: Creating a framework for the online platform, which will be developed in detail at a later stage. • Develop a Detailed Investment Proposal: to secure funding, identify diverse funding channels, and clearly define investor return mechanisms. Potential Impact: This project aims to set a new standard in the furniture industry, combining personalization, sustainability, and mass production. It has the potential to not only provide a unique consumer product but also to contribute positively to environmental conservation and local economies. Future Vision: Post-thesis, I plan to evolve this project into a startup. The business plan developed will act as a guideline for expansion, adhering to the highest standards of business management, innovation, and environmental consciousness. While the focus is currently on establishing the necessary infrastructure, a subsequent Master's in Product Design or a similar field will be sought to perfect the online customer interface. | en |
| Type of Item | Μεταπτυχιακή Διατριβή | el |
| Type of Item | Master Thesis | en |
| License | http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/ | en |
| Date of Item | 2025-01-21 | - |
| Date of Publication | 2024 | - |
| Subject | Furniture | en |
| Subject | MSc in Technology & Innovation Management | en |
| Subject | MTIM | en |
| Bibliographic Citation | Nikolaos Zygoulis, "Revolutionizing furniture: A sustainable approach to customized design and manufacturing", Master Thesis, School of Production Engineering and Management, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece, 2024 | en |
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