Test 4

Question 1

How ae sketches used at the start of the design process

Answer 1

Sketching can be used right at the start of the design task. In this type there can be more writing than sketching. The sketches would just be rough and lack detail but still enable an exploration of concepts. They are more about understanding and considering what the stakeholders want, who the product is for and what it needs to do

Question 2

How are sketches used in first initial ideas

Answer 2

First initial ideas are often communicated through sketches however they would still be very rough and are a quick way for designers to get their initial ideas on paper and explore solutions.

Question 3

How are sketches used in a later stage of the design process

Answer 3

Sketching can also be used at a later stage to help explain the design concept, a products function, structure and form or a specific detail in the design. These sketches communicate in a clear manner focusing on explaining the idea rather than selling it. They are often produced to get stakeholder feedback

Question 4

How are sketches used to sell the product

Answer 4

This involves sketching a product in use and creating a story board. Some designers may prefer to use CAD program or more formal illustrations at this stage

Question 5

What are 2D sketches

Answer 5

Flat drawings that only show 2 dimension

Question 6

What are 3D sketches

Answer 6

Drawings in 3 dimensions that show depth

Question 7

What is perspective drawing

Answer 7

A 3D sketching technique that shows objects in proportion

Question 8

What is an oblique drawing

Answer 8

A simple 3D sketching technique with one face of the item square on and other angled lines to give depth

Question 9

What is isometric drawings

Answer 9

It is a 3D drawing technique which parallel lines at 30 degree angles are applied to the sides of the drawn object. These designs can be drawn using drawing equipment on an isometric grid underlay however many designers use freehand sketching in order to produce quick useful sketches.

Question 10

What does adding details later on in the design process do

Answer 10

This provides essential information for stakeholders and helps a designer to give a more realistic view of their product eg. the overall size of the object and how it would be used

Question 11

What is iterative design

Answer 11

A design process based on a cyclic process of prototyping , testing, reflecting, analysing, evaluating or refining a product or process. The process occurs over and over again to achieve the optimum design

Question 12

What do working drawings include

Answer 12

Dimensions, details of components, materials and assembly instructions

Question 13

What are orthographic projections

Answer 13

2D sketches that show different views eg. front, side and sectional views

Question 14

What is sketch modelling

Answer 14

They are simple physical models made of soft, low, easy to work materials such as cardboard styrofoam, foam board or calico. They are usually used to explore or create initial ideas and can provide 2D and 3D models to physically test with users and other stakeholders

Question 15

What are exploded diagrams

Answer 15

They are 3D view of how each design fits together and show how a product can be assembled and how the separate parts fit together with dotted lines showing where the parts slide into place. The diagrams also show components that would usually be hidden in a solid drawing

Question 16

What is mathematical modelling

Answer 16

Mathematic modelling is the representation of a real situation but rather than a physical model, it uses mathematical concepts and language. For example, mathematic modelling and computerised simulation software can be used to test circuits and mechanical devices without the need to physically build them. As no physical components are used, this is a cost effective process that means money isn’t wasted on expensive parts. Modelling is also quick and can speed up the production process. It can predict stresses on components which means parts can be strengthened before physical prototypes are built.

Question 17

What are flowcharts and how are they used

Answer 17

Flowcharts are diagrams of connected shapes, combined to represent instructions to a workflow or process. Different shapes in a flowchart represent different types of operation. A designer may use a flowchart to represent how a product should be operated, repaired or maintained to the owner. For example, if a common household electronic product such as a dishwasher displayed an error, a flowchart could be used to help identify the issue and find a suitable solution.

Question 18

What are schematic diagrams used for

Answer 18

They are used to show the arrangement of components in electrical and mechanical systems. They are used to indicate the relative points of interconnection of the components within a system as a whole

Question 19

What are focus groups

Answer 19

An organised discussion led by a moderator where a group of people are asked about their views and experiences, perceptions of an attitudes towards a product, brand, service, idea, advertisement or packaging

Question 20

What is user centred designs

Answer 20

It is based on the understanding of users, the tasks they do and the environments in which they live and work. Users are involved at every stage throughout design and development of products. Design is driven and refined by user evaluation and feedback, and user centred designed considers the whole user experience.
Some methods are focus groups, questionaries and interviews

Question 21

What is systems thinking

Answer 21

It is the understanding of a product or component as part of a larger system of other products and systems. In the iterative design process, consideration if the role of all components and sub-systems of the product or system, including the user experience and the marketing of the object being designed, ensures all aspects of the product are given the required attention to detail. The Apple iPod is a good example as not only is it well designed but the process of purchasing it, downloading a song or upgrading its software is also a smooth and easy process. The customer service and recycling scheme, encouraging customers to upgrade to newer models is also very good. Apple have considered the entire experience of the product.

Question 22

What is collaboration

Answer 22

It is working with others for mutual benefit. This can be used in design to add complexity to a design project. Effective collaboration between designers, developers users and other stakeholders can be the difference between success and failure