Overview / Usage

This GPU shroud concept is aimed to be an additional family component to Intel’s Arc GPU.

This concept has fun and aesthetic qualities that match the Intel Arc’s purpose and design language. I reflected on the user purpose behind the Intel Arc. The purpose of the Intel Arc is to elevate the gaming and streaming experience and allow creation without limits. Hence, I designed my GPU shroud to reflect the power and refinement of the Intel Arc. I did this by making the design have fun and non-intimidating features that defy the mold of typical GPU shrouds. Most GPU shrouds offered by competitors are traditionally masculine with dark colors and sharp lines. This current industry standard isn’t approachable to all users. Especially for new users who don’t intend to use their GPU for gaming or are intimidated by the complexity of the designs. I solved that problem by honoring the intended purpose of the Intel Arc by designing a sleek, approachable, and aesthetically pleasing GPU shroud.

The materials on the concept are reflective of my first experience with the Intel Arc GPU promotion. My first thoughts as I viewed the promotions and design language were two things; GPU processed data streams and celestial imagery. Bringing these two concepts together, I showed them as streaming LED lights on the shroud. This design is not like a typical industrial and masculine GPU shroud design, focusing on rounded edges and light colors that reflect calmer quieter power. I highlighted these visual elements with LED light components to the fan and the flush stainless-steel logo, and colorful brushed aluminum parts (bezels and screws). This design exemplifies Intel Arc’s brand language and promotes confidence and comfort that enhances the user experience.

Methodology / Approach

I chose to do the GPU shroud to create a harmonious family of a GPU and a GPU shroud as well as the other reasons above.

Then, I researched key information of Intel and Intel Arc including brand design language and products. I also looked at GPU shroud designs on the market. This helped me pick up things like the trend, what’s lacking with current designs, and what’s desired.

I thought about my design’s key qualities: sleek, approachable, trendy, calming, confident, and reflecting Intel Arc’s brand and purpose.

Once I decided on the design direction, I created a few mockups of the shroud in Solidworks. After the final design was made, I assembled them together in Solidworks. I took the CAD file to Keyshot to render. Then, I took the renders to Adobe Photoshop to make them more photorealistic and to convey the specs. I also used Adobe Illustrator to do some graphic design, such as working with texts, color gradients, and a backdrop design.

In my updated design, I’ve upgraded the shroud to look more sophisticated. I’ve also designed the internal components and refined the details of the overall concept.

I was very focused on pushing the Intel brand in the refinement, so I’ve made sure to include the Intel logo tastefully. I did that so by designing the io shield to incorporate the logo in the air vent, and the logo to be on other sides as well. This was a very CAD-intensive process, and I’ve especially learned a lot on Keyshot. I’ve reached a new milestone with my CAD capabilities. This was a great experience for me to grow as a future industrial designer. Thank you, Intel, for giving me this opportunity. A more of my detailed design process is presented in the PDF document attached.

Thank you!

Technologies Used

Procreate, SolidWorks, Keyshot 10, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Intel Core i7 10th gen, Inspiron 15 5501laptop

Documents and Presentations

Other links

• Screen recordings of CAD iterations