Design Communication

Question 1

Define

2D sketching.

Answer 1

‘flat’ drawings that only show two dimensions

Question 2

When is 2D sketching used?

Answer 2

for a manufacturer

Question 3

Define

3D sketching

Answer 3

drawings in three dimensions that show depth

Question 4

When is 3D sketching used?

Answer 4

to help develop ideas

Question 5

Define

modelling.

Answer 5

the use of a variety of materials and computer animations to demonstrate a design

Question 6

When is modelling used?

Answer 6

testing/user feedback

Question 7

Define

oblique drawing.

Answer 7

a simple 3D sketch with one face square on

diagonal lines are at 45°, one diagonal square is two straight squares

Question 8

Define

isometric drawing.

Answer 8

a 3D technique in which parallel lines at 30 degrees are applied to the sides of a drawn object

diagonal lines are at 30°

Question 9

What are ellipses?

Answer 9

Ellipses are squashed circles. When drawing ellipses the curve touches the middle of each side of the rectangular shape.

Question 10

Define

orthographic drawing.

Answer 10

2D sketches that show different views

Question 11

Define

perspective drawing.

Answer 11

3D drawing that shows objects in proportion

Question 12

What are exploded drawings?

Answer 12

These sketches are used to explain how the components of a product fit together and how they are assembled. This allows designer and engineers to spot possible construction issues. They are drawn in isometric with lines following the isometric grid linking parts together.

Question 13

Define

sketch modelling.

Answer 13

quick model, often just parts of a design, made from easy to work and low cost materials such as cardboard or foam

Question 14

Define

mathematical modelling.

Answer 14

the representation of a real situation but using mathematical concepts and language

Question 15

What are the benefits of maths and computer simulation?

Answer 15

• cost effective as no physical components are used
• quick
• can speed up production
• can predict stresses and strengthen them before manufacture

Question 16

What are schematic diagrams used for?

Answer 16

to show the layout in electrical systems (circuit diagrams and mechanical systems)

Question 17

What techniques do designers use to help avoid design fixation?

Answer 17

primary research, secondary research, data and biomimicry

Question 18

What are some examples of primary research?

/first hand information

Answer 18

• questionnaires
• surveys
• interviews
• focus groups
• observations

Question 19

Define

secondary research.

/market research

Answer 19

looking at how others have solved the same problem

Question 20

What are some examples of data?

Answer 20

• magazines
• reference books
• material properties
• anthropometric data

Question 21

Define

biomimicry.

Answer 21

the use of nature as inspiration for problem solving

Question 22

Define

focus group.

Answer 22

an organized discussion ran by a moderator where a group is asked about their views about products, services, brands, etc

Question 23

Define

User Centred Design

(UCD)

Answer 23

a strategy with the aim of making products and systems useable, focus is on the user interface and interaction

also known as human-centred design

Question 24

What are some methods used for UCD?

Answer 24

• focus groups
• usability testing - data is gathered as people try out a product
• participatory design - people are actively involved in the design and decision making process at every stage
• interview - usually one-to-one
• questionnaires

Question 25

Define

systems thinking.

Answer 25

The understanding of a product or component as part of a larger system or product, ensuring all levels are considered insures the product is given the required attention to detail.

All products are not stand alone but provide a service or experience.

Question 26

What elements need to be considered in systems thinking?

Answer 26

• packaging
• use of the product
• updates and maintenance
• disposal

Question 27

Define

CAD.

Answer 27

Computer Aided Design

Question 28

Define

CAM

Answer 28

Computer Aided Manufacture