<p>Weight calculation table for criterion layer.</p>

This study establishes a novel Bio-Cultural Heritage Design Framework that integrates grounded theory and biomechanics to address the sustainable development of traditional crafts in the digital era. Using Chaozhou woodcarving as a case study, we constructed a hierarchical demand system through a three-stage coding analysis of 1,250 online reviews, 381 survey responses, and expert interviews, identifying biomechanical utility (A1, 40% weight) as the dominant factor. Key sub-criteria—ergonomic compatibility (C12, 0.21 weight), material durability (e.g., nanmu wood with elastic modulus ≥8 GPa), and structural stability (C22, 0.15 weight)—were translated into AI design constraints via Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). AI-generated prototypes (e.g., Sample 15, score 4.53/5) demonstrated superior biomechanical performance, validated by finite element analysis (stress distribution <10 MPa) and user evaluations, outperforming traditional designs by 40–47%. This framework bridges cultural authenticity with scientific rigor, offering actionable strategies to optimize functional reliability while preserving heritage aesthetics, thereby addressing the critical challenge of balancing craft preservation with modern market demands.