Design Technology (HL) Ultimate Guide

Ergonomics

The scientific discipline studying interactions among humans and system elements.

Purpose of Ergonomics

To design for optimal human well-being and system performance.

Anthropometrics

Study of human body measurements focusing on strength and size.

Psychological Factors

User psychology influences design, including perception, memory, and emotional responses.

Physiological Factors

Physical user characteristics affecting safety, comfort, and performance.

Functional Data

Data related to tasks and interactions, such as reaching and navigating.

Psychological Factor Data

Details on taste, smell, and touch sensations, including qualitative and quantitative data.

Physiological Factor Data

Data on physical dimensions and needs, including static and dynamic data.

Environmental Factors

Management policies, physical environment, equipment design, and social environment affecting ergonomics.

Ergonomic Risk Factors

Assessed in initial ergonomic risk assessments to identify potential issues.

Renewable Resources

Resources that can be replenished naturally, such as solar and wind energy.

Non-Renewable Resources

Resources that cannot be replenished, such as fossil fuels and minerals.

Human Error

Mistakes by users that can lead to severe repercussions, often due to design flaws.

International Mindedness

Understanding how global issues impact resource management and design practices.

Technology in Ergonomics

The use of advanced technology, such as VR and AI, in ergonomic design.

User-Centred Design (UCD)

A design philosophy prioritizing the needs and limitations of end-users.

Empathy in UCD

Understanding user needs through research and analysis, including ethnographic studies and personas.

Iterative Design

Continuous feedback and refinement of designs based on user testing and input.

Sustainable Development

Meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

Triple Bottom Line Sustainability

Measuring organizational success through economic, environmental, and social criteria.

Decoupling

Disconnecting economic growth from environmental degradation to achieve sustainability.

Take-Back Legislation

Laws holding manufacturers responsible for the recycling or disposal of their products.

Eco-Labelling

Labelling products to indicate their environmental impact and sustainability.

Lean Production

A manufacturing approach focused on minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.

Quality Management

Ensuring consistent product quality through quality control, assurance, and statistical process control.

Economic Viability

The relationship between production costs and the retail price of a product.

Break-Even Point

The sales amount required to cover total costs, where profit is zero.

Mass Customization

Offering consumers the ability to customize products while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Value Stream Mapping

A tool used to analyze production processes and identify areas for improvement.

Datschefski’s Principles

Five principles guiding sustainable design, including cyclic, solar, safe, efficient, and social considerations.