4. design thinking and communication

what is 2d sketching and when is it used?

'flat' drawings that only show two dimensions

used for initial ideas

what is 3d sketching and when is it used?

drawings in 3d dimensions that show depth

used for initial ideas

what is modelling and when is it used?

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

in between design and munfacturing (used as prototypes and testing products with cheaper materials)

when do designers use sketching in general?

• Explore a concept

• Thumbnail sketches and mind maps, used for understanding and exploring what stakeholders want and what it needs to do/be

• Create initial ideas

• Can be quite rough and are used to grasp overall design concept

• Explain a design concept

• Need to be understood by stakeholders etc and show form and function or a specific detail

• Sell the design concept

• Shows the product in use and often in CAD form

what is oblique drawing and when is it used?

A simple 3D sketch with one face square on

Used by some designers but not as often

what is isometric drawing and when is it used?

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

Used by designers for ideas and exploded views

what is orthographic projection?

2D sketches that show different views (eg plan, front, side and sectional views)

what is perspective drawing and when is it used?

3D drawing that shows objects in proportion

Used by architects and product designers

what are exploded drawings?

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.

what is sketch modelling?

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

what is sketch modelling for?

They explore initial ideas and can be tested by users and stakeholders to develop shapes and sizes. Later models will become more accurate or focused.

What is rapid prototyping?

the processes and techniques used to quickly produce a product or component directly from CAD data. The creation of the part is created using additive manufacture, or more commonly known as 3D printing.

what is cad?

computer aided design, extremely accurate and allows potential problems to be spotted early

what is cam (and some examples)?

computer aided manufacture, eg 3d printers and laser cutters

what are cad models?

•Can be rotated and viewed from every angle
•They are easy to edit and changes can be made quickly
•They can be simulated to see and evaluate how they would respond to different conditions

what is mathematical modelling?

The representation of a real situation, but using mathematical concepts and language
These models represent real situations using maths and computer simulation. As no physical components are used it is cost effective. It is quick and can speed up production. Stresses can be predicted and parts strengthened before manufacture.

what are schematic diagrams?

They are used to show the layout in electrical systems (circuit diagrams) and mechanical systems. The connection between the components in important not the real positions of them.

what are some sources of information when designing?

First-hand information (Primary Research)

• Questionnaires/surveys

• Interviews/focus groups

• Observations Market research - (Secondary Research)

• Looking at how others have solved the problem Data

• Magazines/reference/books

• Material properties

• Anthropometric data Biomimicry

• uses nature as inspiration for problem solving

what is a focus group?

An organized discussion run by a moderator where a group are asked about their views about products, services, brands etc

what is user centered design?

Also known as human-centered design, a strategy with the aim of making products and systems useable. Focus is on the user interface and interaction.

what are some methods used in user centered design?

• 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

what is sytems thinking?

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

Designers need to consider all elements not just the physical product, what does this entail?

• packaging

• use of the product

• updates and maintenance

• disposal

This type of thinking helps designers consider all possible solutions to provide the best service to the user.

what is the definition of collaboration and why is it important?

working with others for mutal benefit

Designers work together and collaboration occurs between designers, developers, users and stakeholders. It can make projects more complex so sometimes control from one group is needed to ensure success.