AI in design - Local-based tools in the spotlight

Christian Waldhütter • 06.11.2025
  • Visualization
  • Training and Education
  • Research
  • Automotive
  • Architecture
  • Industrial

Overview of local-based tools

The following systems represent different approaches to local AI integration in the design process. They range from user-friendly platforms to complex, highly customizable frameworks. In our trainings, these tools are taught in a practical manner, with a focus on efficient workflows, understanding, and design control.

Depix Design Lab

Depix Design Lab is a subscription based AI system specifically tailored to professional automotive visualization processes. It combines prompt-based rendering, style control, and project organization in a clear interface.

In practice, Depix Design Lab impresses above all with its intuitive usability. The interface is clearly structured, easy to understand, and quickly accessible for designers. Depix Design Lab is particularly strong in the design iteration phase. Variants can be generated and compared in no time at all. Another advantage is the ability to influence training through the targeted use of reference or input images, allowing the style of the results to be precisely adapted to individual specifications. For example using iconic design language from the 80s as input training for an upcoming concept car design.

With the Depix Design Lab plugin for Autodesk VRED Professional, developed by Ideenkultivierung, generative AI becomes a fully integrated part of the high-end 3D visualization workflow. This plugin empowers users to generate photorealistic renders of CAD data, all without leaving the familiar VRED environment. For more information about the plugin: Autodesk VRED: Integration of Depix AI

Fast workflow – easy to use – straightforward training

ComfyUI + Flux

ComfyUI is an open source node-based framework designed for maximum flexibility. It allows the free design and combination of workflows, models, and processes. It is an approach that requires a deep understanding of AI processes, but offers almost unlimited creative and technical potential.

Thanks to its modular structure, complex processes, such as image generation and post-production, can be precisely defined and automated. The integration of Flux opens up additional possibilities for context control and image logic. ComfyUI can be configured highly and is ideal for developing individual AI pipelines.

Maximum flexibility – customized workflow design – high technical depth

Krita with ComfyUI integration

Krita is open source drawing software that, when combined with ComfyUI, becomes a powerful hybrid of classic illustration and generative AI. The user interface is reminiscent of the industry standard Photoshop, making it particularly easy and intuitive for designers and digital artists to get started.

The seamless integration of AI functions enables a smooth workflow without changing programs and allows for iterative, precise work. For example, through inpainting, i.e., targeted changes within an existing image, details can be corrected, expanded, or stylistically adjusted retrospectively without changing the overall impression. In addition, Krita is compatible with a variety of AI models and training data, enabling its use in a wide range of design contexts.

Precise image editing – flexible AI models – seamless, fluid workflow

UDIN Optic AI

UDIN Optic AI is a subscription based specialized visualization tool that can be used in various phases of the design process. With its intuitive interface, the software is easy to learn and allows users to focus clearly on the creative process.

UDIN Optic AI covers a wide range of applications, from conceptual design studies to photorealistic renderings with convincing lighting and material effects. This makes the tool suitable for both rapid idea development and precise presentation of final designs. The ability to easily train the AI with your own input images allows the visual output to be tailored to individual styles, brand aesthetics, or project-specific requirements.

In addition, UDIN offers a seamlessly integrated Blender plugin, enabling designers to connect their 3D workflows directly with the visualization engine. This extension allows for smooth data exchange, real-time previews, and AI-enhanced rendering capabilities within the Blender environment.

Versatile – easy to use – personalized training

Curious?

Artificial intelligence is not an autonomous creative system, but a tool for expanding human design capabilities. With correct use, AI can not only increase efficiency, but also design precision and conceptual depth. But as with any tool, only those who understand it can use it effectively.

Our trainings on the job not only show you how to design with AI, but also where the limits currently lie. Because the goal is not to let machines design, but to guide them in such a way that they reinforce your vision.

Learn how to integrate tools such as Depix Design Lab, ComfyUI+Flux, Krita+AI, and UDIN Optic AI into your workflow in a practical, efficient, and secure manner with a focus on design quality.

Christian Waldhütter
With a background in product and transportation design, Christian is fascinated by design processes and how AI can expand the boundaries of creative work, exploring what's possible and what's not (yet).

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