Design Process: Man and Machine Conference

Background

The Man and Machine Conference brings together researchers working on the foundations of robotics, robotics applications, artificial intelligence, autonomy, and analysis of robotic systems and automation. The conference allows participants to see the best research in all areas of robotics.

Objective

The objective for the conference was to attract local and regional attendees to the conference who are interested or have a stake in the future of robotic design, emerging technologies and application. The project objective was to create a consistent conceptual style across various marketing applications.

Strategy

The target audience includes engineers, manufacturers, designers and inventors who are interested in supporting and learning about the rapidly advancing and innovative technologies. The key message was to explore the challenges facing advancement, production, and interaction with robotic machine in the 21st century from a scientific standpoint.

Tone and Character Key Words: Technology, programming and development, innovation, automation, AI, human-machine interface.

The first step of the process was exploring the themes and any visual concepts that could express the key message and intended tone. I started by making a mind map around robots and then did some quick logotype sketches to explore different tones.

Concept Mindmap & Logotype Exploration

 

Poster Thumbnail Sketches

The overarching concept that I decided to carry through the entire campaign is man and machine’s ability to work together. The illustrations were used to visually represent this relationship and show that people and machines work collaboratively in today’s industries. The style of the robotic arm takes inspiration from the yellow industrial robotic arms used for automobile assembly and various factory tasks. Having the man dressed in stereotypical work attire shows both of them are hard at work cooperatively on the same project. Using an industrial robot will also resonate strongly with the engineers and manufacturers who will be attending. Textures were also used to extend the concept beyond the main illustrations; a fingerprint for people and circuitry for robotics.

The final design solutions advertise the conference in an exciting and eye catching way. The overall concept is expressed through illustration and the visual style allows the campaign to feel consistent across all the various applications.