Design communication

Question 1

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

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

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

Oblique drawing

Answer 7

a simple 3D sketch with one face square on. (diagonal lines are at 45°)

Question 8

Isometric drawing

Answer 8

a 3D technique in which parallel lines at 30 degrees are applied to 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

Orthographic drawing

Answer 10

2D sketches that show different views

Question 11

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

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

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

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

biomimicry

Answer 21

the use of nature as inspiration for problem solving

Question 22

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

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