Modelling

conceptual model

originates in the mind and its primary purpose is to outline the principles, processes and basic functions of a design or system.

Service design

is the activity of planning and organizing people, infrastructure, communication and material components of a service in order to improve its quality and the interaction between service provider and customers.

Graphical model

is a 2D and 3D visualization of an idea, often created on paper or through software.

Perspective drawings

are used to show what a product will look like when finished in a more lifelike way.

Isometric drawings

are used to accurately depict what a product will look like when finished.

Orthographic projection

involves drawing a 3D object from different directions—usually the front, side, and plan views are drawn so that a person looking at the drawing can see all the important sides.

Scale drawings

are techniques that show an object in proportion to its actual size.

Sketching

Spontaneous and free-hand representation used very early in the design process, usually free-hand.

Formal drawings

Ruled out and accurate drawings used in the development phase of a design process. Represent a more resolved idea for further investigation.

Part drawings

 Provide the information to assemble a product similarly to assembly drawings, with the added benefit of a list of parts (LOP) or Bill of Materials (BOM).

Assembly drawings (Exploded isometric)

 Show how parts of a product fit together, often used for model kits and flat-pack furniture.

Fitted assembly drawing

Shows the parts put together, in 2D or 3D.

Exploded assembly drawing

Shows parts separated but in the correct relationship for fitting together, usually in 3D.

Algorithm

 in mathematics and computer science, is a self-contained step-by-step set of operations to be performed.

Physical Modelling

three-dimensional, tangible representation of a design or system, often referred to as an "Appearance Model."

scale model

is a smaller or larger physical copy of an object, usually represented at a specific scale (e.g., 1:100).

Aesthetic Models

Developed to look and feel like the final product, used for ergonomic testing and visual appeal evaluation.

Mock-ups

Used to test ideas, either at scale or full-size, to gain feedback from users.

Functional Prototypes

A sample or model built to test a concept or process, representing a real, working product.

Fidelity

A measure of the realism of a model or simulation, ranging from low (conceptual) to high (mock-up of the idea, close to the final product).

Instrumented Models

 Physical models equipped to take measurements for quantitative feedback.

Computer-aided design (CAD)

Used for conceptual design and layout, reducing testing and manufacturing costs.