University of Twente Student Theses
Ceramic Surfaces as a Source of Luxury in Handheld Devices: A Study on the Physical Attributes that Predict Luxury and how to apply these in technical ceramics manufacturing
Schmale, M.D. (2024) Ceramic Surfaces as a Source of Luxury in Handheld Devices: A Study on the Physical Attributes that Predict Luxury and how to apply these in technical ceramics manufacturing.
Full text not available from this repository.
| Full Text Status: | Access to this publication is restricted |
| Embargo date: | 21 February 2026 |
| Abstract: | This thesis investigates the potential of technical ceramics as a material for creating premium handheld products, with a specific focus on luxury camera components. Through a series of user studies, this work explores the relationship between surface attributes and the perception of luxury and premiumness. These insights, coupled with a comprehensive analysis of manufacturing processes, offer a valuable framework for understanding the feasibility of producing ceramic products that meet high-end consumer expectations. The research revealed that material choice plays a significant role in consumer perception, with zirconia oxide ranking favourably across metrics for luxury and premiumness. Findings highlight the importance of surface smoothness and its positive correlation with perceived value. Additionally, attribute combinations (such as smooth and glossy) were also identified as having a significant impact on user perception. Manufacturing limitations and opportunities were a key focus. Injection moulding and green machining emerged as ideal methods for achieving the desired surface qualities. While challenges in sourcing ceramic samples were encountered, this thesis adapted its approach, incorporating a design case study focused on a special edition camera lens. This exploration emphasized the advantages of technical ceramics for innovative product design. This work offers Leica insights into consumer perceptions and the practical considerations for integrating technical ceramics into their offerings. Future research directions include refining the attribute-perception relationship across various product categories, exploring novel ceramic manufacturing techniques, and investigating the potential for technical ceramics in diverse applications. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Clients: | Leica Camera, Wetzlar, Germany |
| Faculty: | ET: Engineering Technology |
| Subject: | 01 general works, 51 materials science, 58 process technology |
| Programme: | Industrial Design Engineering MSc (66955) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/98400 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page