Section 1- Key Ideas In Design And Technology Flashcards
What is manufacturing?
Manufacturing involves processes to create a finished product from raw materials.
Examples of raw materials include metal, textile, and paper.
What are the three main parts of the manufacturing system?
Input, Process, Output
- Input: Materials and equipment used.
- Process: Activities that change input into output.
- Output: The finished product.
What is automation in manufacturing?
Automation is the use of machines to perform tasks automatically with little or no human input.
What are some advantages of using robots in manufacturing?
- Increase production speed
- Cost-effective compared to human workers
- High accuracy and consistency
- Can operate in unsafe environments
Robots can work continuously without needing rest.
What are some disadvantages of using robots in manufacturing?
- High initial cost
- Limited ability to perform tasks requiring human judgment
- Reduced job opportunities for humans
How are robots being developed for future use in manufacturing?
Robots are being designed to be more intelligent and to work closely with humans, learning tasks through human demonstration.
What is smart technology in manufacturing?
Smart technology connects computerized machines with other machines and sensors to share data and organize tasks autonomously.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT) in the context of manufacturing?
The Internet of Things refers to the connection of various machines and devices to the internet for data sharing and processing.
Fill in the blank: Advances in _______ can improve manufacturing processes.
[technology]
What role do smart machines play in managing stock levels?
Smart machines can monitor stock levels and determine when materials and components will run out.
How does technology affect job availability?
Technology is always developing and impacts the jobs available.
Increasing automation reduces the number of people needed for manual tasks but also creates new job opportunities.
What are some job opportunities created by the development of computers and the internet?
Job opportunities include:
* Designing computers
* Writing programs
* Designing computer games
* Maintaining websites
* Teaching computer usage
The list of jobs created is extensive.
How has technology changed the nature of certain jobs?
Workers on manufacturing lines may supervise robots rather than perform technical tasks themselves.
Why is it important to consider cultural views when designing a product?
Considering cultural views helps avoid isolating or offending people for political, religious, gender, or cultural reasons.
This is crucial for targeting specific markets.
How can new technology potentially offend certain groups?
New technology, like materials made from animal products, may offend vegans and vegetarians.
This highlights the importance of considering consumer values.
How does the internet affect fashion trends?
The internet allows global access to fashion trends and visibility of new clothes via social media and blogs.
This creates a wider audience for fashion products.
How can products be designed to avoid negative impacts on specific groups?
Products can be sensitive to the needs of:
* Disabled people
* Elderly people
Accessibility features like large buttons and voice-controlled apps are examples.
What considerations should be made for religious groups when designing products?
Designers should consider the potential misuse of religious symbols to avoid causing offense.
For example, using symbols from religions that prohibit alcohol on alcoholic product packaging can be offensive.
What are fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are natural resources that form underground over millions of years.
What are the three main types of fossil fuels?
- Coal
- Oil
- Gas
How do power stations use fossil fuels to generate electricity?
Power stations burn fossil fuels to produce heat, which heats water to create steam that drives a turbine.
What is a pro of using fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are reliable and currently meet demand as well as cost effective
What is a con of using fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are finite and will eventually run out as well as extremely bad for the environment
How does nuclear power generate energy?
Nuclear power stations use nuclear fission to produce heat that creates steam to drive turbines.
What is a pro of nuclear power?
Nuclear power is reliable and cheap and produces low levels of greenhouse gases
What is a con of nuclear power?
Nuclear power produces dangerous waste, the sources are dangerous
What are non-finite (renewable) energy resources?
Resources that can be replenished faster or at the same speed as it is used
What is wind power?
Wind power involves turbines in exposed places that generate electricity from wind.
How do solar cells work?
Solar cells generate electric currents directly from sunlight.
What are tidal barrages?
Tidal barrages are big dams built across river estuaries with turbines that generate electricity from tidal flow.
What is hydro-electrical power?
Hydro-electrical power uses a dam to flood a valley, allowing water to flow through turbines to generate electricity.
What is biomass energy?
Biomass involves burning waste wood or crop material to produce steam that turns turbines.
What is a disadvantage of renewable energy resources?
Initial set up cost can be quite high and generally they don’t produce as much energy.
What is the main concern regarding the reliability of renewable energy?
Some renewable energy sources are dependent on weather conditions.
What is a kinetic energy storage system?
A system that stores extra energy in the form of kinetic energy.
What do alkaline batteries use?
Batteries that use an alkaline electrolyte.
What is the primary source of most electricity production?
Fossil fuels
Fossil fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas.
What has triggered the drive to use more renewable energy resources?
Concerns about environmental impact and depletion of fossil fuels
The need for sustainability and reduced carbon emissions also plays a role.
What is a kinetic pumped storage system?
A system that stores excess energy generated at night for peak demand
It uses hydro-electric power stations to pump water to a higher reservoir.
How does a pumped storage system generate electricity during peak demand?
By allowing water to flow through turbines
This water is released from a higher reservoir to generate electricity.
What is the main function of batteries?
To store chemical energy and generate electric voltage
Batteries push current through a circuit when chemical reactions occur.
What are alkaline batteries?
Disposable batteries that cannot be reused once flat
They have a power output that decreases over time.
What is a key feature of rechargeable batteries?
They can be charged again after going flat
This reverses the chemical reaction and reforms necessary chemicals.
What is one advantage of rechargeable batteries over disposable batteries?
They are more environmentally-friendly
Rechargeable batteries can be used multiple times, reducing waste.
What is one disadvantage of nuclear power?
Concerns about safety and radioactive waste
These factors can lead to public opposition despite its low emissions.
What is the main purpose of CAD?
To design products on a computer instead of using traditional methods like pencil and paper.
How does CAD help designers?
It allows quick modeling and changes to designs, easy experimentation with colors and forms, and helps spot problems early.
What is the function of CAM?
To manufacture products using computers.
What are x, y, and z coordinates in CAD?
x is left/right, y is forwards/backwards, z is up/down.
What is the datum point in CAD?
(0,0,0)
This is the point where the x, y, and z coordinates meet.
What type of machines are CAM machines?
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines.
What is subtraction in CAM?
The process of removing material from a solid block to form an object.
Give an example of a CAM machine that uses subtraction.
CNC milling machines.
What is addition in CAM?
The process of adding material to build up an object.
Give an example of a CAM machine that uses addition.
3D printers.
What do 3D printers do in the context of CAM?
They add material, such as polymer, to create a product layer by layer.
What are two other examples of CAM machines?
CNC routers, laser cutters.
What is meant by machines being ‘computer numerically controlled’?
Machines that are controlled by computer programs to automate tasks
This allows for high precision and repeatability in manufacturing processes.
Give an example of a CNC machine.
CNC router
CNC routers can cut out both 2D and 3D shapes from various materials.
Describe the difference between CAM machines that carry out subtraction and CAM machines that carry out addition of material.
Subtractive machines remove material; additive machines build up material
Subtractive methods include milling and laser cutting, while additive methods include 3D printing.
Give an example of a material that a 3D printer can print with.
Plastic or wax
3D printers can utilize various materials for prototyping and final products.
How does using CAD/CAM save on shipping costs for a business?
Designs can be sent electronically to factories worldwide, reducing shipping of finished products
This allows companies to manufacture closer to their markets.
What are the two main types of CAM machines based on axes?
2-axis machines and 3-axis machines
2-axis machines can only produce 2D shapes, while 3-axis machines can create 3D shapes.
What materials can CNC routers be used on?
Plastic, wood, and metals
CNC routers are versatile and can handle various materials for cutting and engraving.
What are laser cutters primarily used for?
Cutting and engraving materials
Laser cutters can work with sheet materials like plastic, wood, and some metals.
True or False: Laser cutters can create 3D objects.
False
Laser cutters are 2-axis machines and can only cut 2D shapes.
What is one drawback of using CAD/CAM in manufacturing?
Vulnerability to viruses and software problems
These issues can slow down production and affect efficiency.
What is the purpose of 3D printing in the context of CAD/CAM?
Rapid prototyping and manufacturing final products
3D printing allows for quick design iterations and is increasingly used for end products.
What types of shapes can die cutters create?
Shapes from sheet materials
Die cutters are used for precise cuts in flat materials.
What does sustainability mean?
Not causing permanent damage to the environment and not using up finite resources.
Finite resources are those that will eventually run out, such as crude oil.
What are the two main factors that determine how sustainable a product is?
- Materials used
- Processes used to make the product
What is the difference between finite and non-finite resources?
Finite resources cannot be replaced and will eventually run out, while non-finite resources can be replenished.
What does it mean for a product to be recyclable or biodegradable?
Recyclable means it can be processed and used again, while biodegradable means it will break down over time.
What is a carbon footprint?
The amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by making, using, and disposing of a product.
What contributes to a product’s carbon footprint during transportation?
The burning of fossil fuels to provide energy for transporting raw materials and the finished product.
How does energy consumption affect a product’s carbon footprint?
The more energy needed for manufacturing and disposal processes, the bigger the product’s carbon footprint.
What happens when a product reaches the end of its usable life?
It becomes waste and has to be disposed of, which can cause pollution.
What is built-in obsolescence in product design?
Designing products to have a limited lifespan or to become outdated quickly.
Fill in the blank: The bigger a product’s carbon footprint, the larger its contribution to _______.
[global warming]
What is the environmental impact of producing new products?
Releases emissions and contributes to pollution.
Why is it impractical to never make another new product?
Every product eventually comes to the end of its usable life.
What is the goal of ‘Design for Recycling’?
To design products that allow the parts to be easily separated and recycled.
What are some examples of products that can have a negative sustainability impact?
- Products designed to break easily
- Products with built-in obsolescence
What is the significance of maintaining products?
Proper maintenance can extend the product’s usable life and reduce waste.
What happens to the environment when products are frequently replaced?
Increases pollution and resource depletion.
What is Product Sustainability?
Making products using materials that can be recycled or break down in landfill.
Product sustainability focuses on reducing environmental impact by selecting appropriate materials.
What types of materials are recyclable?
Paper, glass, most metals.
These materials often carry symbols indicating their recyclability.
What is a limitation of recycling plastics?
Plastics can’t be recycled over and over again due to structural changes.
Additionally, recycling plastics can be expensive.
What items typically can’t be made from recycled plastics?
Medical supplies.
Safety reasons limit the use of recycled plastics in certain products.
What does biodegradable mean?
Materials that rot away naturally, such as wood and paper.
Some new plastics are also designed to be biodegradable.
What is ‘Design for Disassembly’?
Designing products to be easily taken apart at the end of their lifetime.
This allows for parts and materials to be reused or recycled.
What is the current trend for electronic and electrical goods?
To be designed for disassembly to reduce environmental impact.
This trend aims to enhance sustainability in product design.
What is planned obsolescence?
Designing products to become obsolete quickly.
An example is disposable razors that can’t be reused once blunt.
What is built-in obsolescence, and why is it problematic?
Designs that lead to quick obsolescence, causing more materials and energy use.
Built-in obsolescence negatively impacts the environment.
What is ‘design for maintenance’?
Designing products to be durable and maintainable.
This allows for repairs and part replacements, reducing waste.
Give an example of a household appliance designed for maintenance.
Washing machines.
They can be maintained and repaired, rather than replaced entirely.
What is the concept of modular electronics?
Electronics made up of different parts that can be individually upgraded or replaced.
This reduces electronic waste by allowing partial replacements.
What is the environmental benefit of modular phones?
Cuts down electronic waste by allowing part replacements instead of complete devices.
This approach is more sustainable than traditional phone designs.
What is continuous improvement in product manufacturing?
A process by which manufacturers are constantly trying to improve products by changing their design to incorporate new technology.
What is a potential negative impact of continuous improvement on the environment?
It can encourage consumers to replace existing products with new ones, leading to increased environmental damage.
What is a carbon footprint?
The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by a product throughout its lifecycle.
How can continuous improvement lead to a reduced environmental impact?
By using more efficient components in new electronic products, resulting in lower carbon footprints.
What do energy efficiency ratings signify?
They indicate how efficiently an appliance uses energy, with higher ratings (e.g., A-rated) representing better efficiency.
List some improvements that can positively impact the environment.
- Improving energy efficiency of manufacturing processes
- Avoiding environmentally damaging chemicals
- Minimizing material usage
- Avoiding unsustainable materials
- Using renewable or biodegradable materials
- Designing for recycling and disassembly
- Making durable products
What is a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)?
A method to evaluate the potential environmental impact of a product by examining each stage of its life, from raw materials to disposal.
Why are hardwoods considered less environmentally friendly than softwoods?
Hardwoods are often obtained from natural rainforests, leading to habitat destruction, while softwoods come from managed plantations.
What are the environmental concerns associated with metal and plastic production?
- Metals require mining and extraction, causing pollution
- Plastics are made from crude oil, a finite resource, and their production is energy-intensive
What happens to products at the end of their life?
They are often disposed of in landfill sites, taking up space and potentially contaminating land and water.
True or False: Using electrical products does not impact the environment.
False. Electrical products use electricity generated by burning fossil fuels, which contributes to environmental damage.
Fill in the blank: Continuous improvement can lead to products that are designed for _______.
[recycling and disassembly]
What are bioplastics made from?
Renewable plant materials that biodegrade fully.
What is the significance of designing products to last?
It reduces the need for new resources and minimizes waste.
What are the 6 Rs that help reduce the environmental impact of products?
Repair, Re-use, Recycle, Rethink, Reduce, Refuse
These principles guide consumers and manufacturers towards more sustainable practices.
What does the ‘Repair’ principle encourage?
Fixing items instead of discarding them
For example, repairing a mobile phone can be as cost-effective as buying a new one but is better for the environment.
How can the ‘Re-use’ principle be applied?
Extending a product’s life by passing it on or using it for other purposes
An example is using an old car tyre to make a swing.
What is the benefit of ‘Recycle’?
It uses less energy than obtaining new materials
Clear recycling labels help in separating materials for recycling.
What does ‘Rethink’ involve in product design?
Considering alternative designs for products
An example is designing a wind-up radio instead of one that uses batteries.
What is the goal of the ‘Reduce’ principle?
To create long-lasting, durable products
This reduces the number of products needed and lowers energy use.
What does ‘Refuse’ encourage consumers to do?
To decline purchasing wasteful products
This includes avoiding products with excessive packaging or inefficient operation.
What is a ‘Social Footprint’ of a product?
The impact of product design and manufacture on people
It includes considerations like safe working conditions for employees.
What responsibility do firms have regarding employee safety?
To provide safe working conditions
This is especially important in dangerous jobs like agriculture and manufacturing.
What is the purpose of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI)?
To ensure better working conditions across the supply chain
Companies that join ETI commit to meeting certain standards.
What can pollution from manufacturing negatively affect?
Oceans and the atmosphere
For instance, dioxins from bleaching fibres are harmful to both animals and humans.
Why is reducing pollution important?
To protect human health
Efforts include cleaning up manufacturing processes and restricting harmful emissions.
What is a life cycle assessment used for?
To evaluate the environmental impact of a product
It helps in understanding the ecological footprint throughout a product’s life.
Which of the following is not one of the 6 Rs? A: Repair, B: Reassess, C: Rethink, D: Recycle
B: Reassess
Reassess is not part of the 6 Rs framework.
Give two ways that firms can help keep their employees safe.
- Provide a safe working environment
- Supply sufficient protective equipment
Training on safety procedures is also essential.
What are the 6 Rs that help reduce the environmental impact of products?
Repair, Re-use, Recycle, Rethink, Reduce, Refuse
These principles guide consumers and manufacturers towards more sustainable practices.
What does the ‘Repair’ principle encourage?
Fixing items instead of discarding them
For example, repairing a mobile phone can be as cost-effective as buying a new one but is better for the environment.
How can the ‘Re-use’ principle be applied?
Extending a product’s life by passing it on or using it for other purposes
An example is using an old car tyre to make a swing.
What is the benefit of ‘Recycle’?
It uses less energy than obtaining new materials
Clear recycling labels help in separating materials for recycling.
What does ‘Rethink’ involve in product design?
Considering alternative designs for products
An example is designing a wind-up radio instead of one that uses batteries.
What is the goal of the ‘Reduce’ principle?
To create long-lasting, durable products
This reduces the number of products needed and lowers energy use.
What does ‘Refuse’ encourage consumers to do?
To decline purchasing wasteful products
This includes avoiding products with excessive packaging or inefficient operation.
What is a ‘Social Footprint’ of a product?
The impact of product design and manufacture on people
It includes considerations like safe working conditions for employees.
What responsibility do firms have regarding employee safety?
To provide safe working conditions
This is especially important in dangerous jobs like agriculture and manufacturing.
What is the purpose of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI)?
To ensure better working conditions across the supply chain
Companies that join ETI commit to meeting certain standards.
What can pollution from manufacturing negatively affect?
Oceans and the atmosphere
For instance, dioxins from bleaching fibres are harmful to both animals and humans.
Why is reducing pollution important?
To protect human health
Efforts include cleaning up manufacturing processes and restricting harmful emissions.
What is a life cycle assessment used for?
To evaluate the environmental impact of a product
It helps in understanding the ecological footprint throughout a product’s life.
Which of the following is not one of the 6 Rs? A: Repair, B: Reassess, C: Rethink, D: Recycle
B: Reassess
Reassess is not part of the 6 Rs framework.
Give two ways that firms can help keep their employees safe.
- Provide a safe working environment
- Supply sufficient protective equipment
Training on safety procedures is also essential.
