Core 3 Flashcards
What is conceptual modelling? Why do we need it?
Containing all the information required to a point where designers can get a feel for how well the system fits the original brief and specification.
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Should be as simple as possible, less so for functionality.
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A good model has clear objectives, has evolved and improved, and has allowed for less complex and more accurate later models.
What advantages and disadvantages does conceptual modelling have?
Advantages
- User trial opportunities
- Client input into developing models
- Sped up product development cycles
- Possible testing of production methods and materials
- Reduced development costs by avoiding costly mistakes and false starts
- # Clearer design functionality under review of models and prototypesDisadvantages
===== - Performance - Lack representation of final model
- Functionality - Not always able to replicate in-service use
- Predictions lack ability to provide a true indication of final product
What is graphical modelling?
A visual method used to represent and explore design ideas before physical prototypes are created.
What is a mathematical model?
Offer convenience and cost advantage optimising profits by looking at inventory, production time, plant capacity, etc.
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Only as good as the programming allows - Not entirely reliable at predicting real situations.
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Graphs and tables are examples of simple mathematical models.
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E.g. Formula 1 Production of performance fuel mixtures in a virtual engine based on mathematical figures and inputs.
What are 2-D and 3-D graphical models?
Can later be transferred into more formal and accurate representations.
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Effort-saving character of sketches allows for a focus on creativity.
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Annotations allow for:
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- Problem identification for future resolution
- Clarification of obscure or difficult to sketch concepts
- Note related variations or alternatives
What is the difference between perspective, projection and scale drawings?
Perspective Drawing
An observation from a single point, the eye, which produces images similar to that of a camera.
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Create the illusion that the object’s size diminishes the further it retreats from the viewpoint.
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Useful for product artists and architects.
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Single-point - objects facing the viewer receding to a single point.
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Two-point - horizontal lines recede to one of two points on a horizon.
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Three-point - third vanishing point appending to the vertical axis.
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Orthographic Projection
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uses lines of sight that are always perpendicular to the viewing plane to produce a projected image.
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Takes multiple fixed planes of a product and produces a 2-D face.
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The main planes include - Front, Side, Plan.
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An orthographic drawing shows precise details and dimensions.
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Scale drawings
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Constructed to a specific ratio relative to actual size of the place or object.
Ratios can be used to enlarge or reduce subject appearance.
E.g. 1:5, 1:20, 1:100, 1:1000, 1:5000
Discuss sketching vs formal drawings.
Formal techniques are used in the later stages of development to covey a closer approximation of final design or define exact size, fit finish and appearance of the final product.
What are assembly drawings?
Required for any item consisting of more than one part with a table of parts and assembly instructions.
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Exploded isometric drawings display component parts displaced along an assembly axis.
What is physical modelling? What methods of physical modelling are there?
Conceptual models in a 3 dimensional or physical space for further review that represent the final products function, or design.
Scale models
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Products or structures, created at a reduced (or sometimes increased) scale. These models help designers and clients visualize the form, proportions, and functionality of a design before full-scale production. Scale models are valuable for testing aesthetics, ergonomics, and spatial fit, allowing for early feedback and design refinement.
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In architectural design, a scale model of a building at 1:100 ratio allows designers to showcase layout, structure, and material finishes. Stakeholders can better understand the design concept and make informed decisions before construction begins.
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Aesthetic models
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Focus on the appearance, form, and visual aspects of a design rather than functionality. They are typically made to look like the final product, capturing details such as color, texture, and proportions, allowing designers and clients to assess the design’s visual appeal and style. Aesthetic models are often non-functional but help in evaluating how a product might look and feel in real life.
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An aesthetic model of a smartphone may showcase its sleek design, color options, and material finishes, giving stakeholders a realistic preview of its market-ready look.
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Mock-ups
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Simple, often non-functional models that simulate the design’s form and dimensions to evaluate aspects like ergonomics, layout, or fit. Mock-ups are usually created quickly and inexpensively using basic materials (e.g., cardboard or foam) to gain rapid feedback on the design’s physical characteristics.
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A cardboard mock-up of a chair allows designers to test its size, shape, and comfort without incurring the costs of full material use.
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Prototypes
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Fully functional models, intended to test performance, usability, and reliability. Prototypes are typically created with materials and features that closely match the final product, allowing for thorough testing and refinement.
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A working prototype of an electronic gadget, like a smartwatch, enables designers to evaluate the device’s functionality, battery life, and user interface before mass production.
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Instrumented models
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Physical or digital models equipped with sensors or measurement tools to collect real-time data on performance, usability, and stress factors. These models provide quantitative insights that help designers refine the product based on measurable outcomes, making them particularly useful in testing safety, durability, and efficiency under realistic conditions.
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An instrumented model of a car seat might include sensors to measure pressure distribution and comfort over time, providing data to improve ergonomic design and materials before production.
What is CAD? What methods of CAD are there?
Two-dimensional representations of designs, used primarily for technical drawings, floor plans, and schematics. This method is valuable for precise detailing, measurements, and layout work. Architects and engineers use 2-D CAD for drafting blueprints, electrical schematics, and mechanical part designs, where accurate dimensions and simple visuals are sufficient.
Wireframe modelling
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Skeletal outline of 3D objects using lines and curves, offering a basic structural visualization without surfaces or shading. Commonly used in early design stages, it allows designers to view internal components and alignments. Applications include engineering layouts and complex geometry visualization.
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3D Modelling
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Three-dimensional digital representations that showcase the depth, form, and spatial relationships of a design. 3D models are widely used in industries like automotive, animation, and architecture, allowing designers to simulate physical properties, test visual aesthetics, and prepare for prototyping.
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Surface Models
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Define an object’s outer layer, focusing on its contours and appearance without interior volume. Used in automotive and product design, they are ideal for aesthetics-focused projects, enabling designers to fine-tune surface details like curves and finishes for external visual appeal.
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Solid Models
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Complete 3D representations that include both surfaces and interior volume, providing a fully defined object. Useful in engineering and manufacturing, they allow simulations of weight, material strength, and thermal properties, making them essential for functional testing and preparing designs for production.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of CAD?
Advantages
Stored in a variety of formats
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Easily altered or corrected
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Created as 2-D and 3-D models
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Rescaled, zoomed, cropped for detail
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Electronically distributable for collaborative work
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Disadvantages
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Levels of staff training required to be competent.
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Initial cost and software upgrades
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Software and hardware compatibility
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Skills require upgrading with updating software
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Steep learning curve in early stages of uptake
What are physical and conceptual data models? What is statistical modelling?
Physical data modeling is a detailed design phase that takes the conceptual model and translates it into a format that can be implemented in a database. It specifies the actual structure of the database, including tables, columns, data types, indexes, and constraints. This model considers performance, storage, and technical requirements. It answers “How will the data be stored and accessed?”
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Statistical modeling is different from conceptual and physical modeling; it uses mathematical techniques to analyse, interpret, and make predictions based on data. Rather than defining how data is structured or stored, it focuses on extracting insights and identifying patterns. Statistical models use data sets to predict outcomes, optimize decisions, or find relationships between variables.
What is virtual prototyping?
In automotive design, a virtual prototype of a car can be tested for aerodynamics, safety features, and structural integrity in simulated environments, reducing physical crash testing in early stages.
What is the difference between top-down and bottom-up modelling?
Bottom-Up Modeling
Individual components or parts are created first and then assembled into a larger system or product. Each part is designed independently, and the complete product is formed by combining these pre-designed parts. This approach is often used when the designer has precise specifications for each component.
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Example: In consumer electronics, separate models are created for each component (like battery, display, and circuit board) before they’re combined to form a smartphone.
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Top-Down Modeling
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The overall product is designed first, and then each part is refined to fit the larger structure. This allows designers to control the entire assembly structure, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly. Ideal when the overall design and function are prioritized over individual parts.
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In aircraft design, the overall shape and structure are first defined, and then components like wings, fuselage, and engines are designed to fit within this structure and meet the design requirements.
What are digital humans? And what is used to understand humans or produce more accurate digital human models?
Digital humans are computer-generated models that simulate human movements, interactions, and ergonomics within a virtual environment. They’re used to test products for usability, safety, and comfort, particularly in workspaces, vehicles, and consumer products. Digital humans help designers ensure products are user-friendly and ergonomically sound.
Motion capture
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Product Design: Used to analyse human interactions with products, allowing designers to refine ergonomics and usability.
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Prototype Testing: Captures user movements to assess how well a prototype functions in real-world scenarios.
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Sports Equipment Development: Helps in designing athletic gear by analysing the biomechanics of movements to enhance performance.
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Haptic technology
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User Interface Design: Provides tactile feedback in devices like smartphones and wearable technology, improving user experience and interaction.
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Training Simulators: Used in product training programs to simulate realistic handling of tools and machinery, enhancing learning through physical feedback.
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Consumer Electronics: Enhances devices such as gaming controllers and VR systems, creating a more immersive experience by simulating touch and motion.
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VR
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Product Visualization: Allows designers and clients to experience a product in a virtual space before it’s built, facilitating better design decisions.
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Prototype Development: Enables virtual testing of products in simulated environments, identifying potential design flaws early in the development process.
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User Testing: Provides immersive environments to gather user feedback on products, leading to more informed design iterations.
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Animation
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Product Demonstrations: Creates animated product demos that showcase features and functionalities, enhancing marketing efforts.
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Instructional Design: Used to create animated tutorials for product usage, making complex instructions easier to understand.
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Concept Development: Helps designers visualize ideas and concepts in motion, aiding in the refinement of designs before production.
