Technology

The Design Process 

The design process is a planned series of steps for the achievement of a practical purpose. It can take slightly different forms depending on the nature of the design problem that needs to be resolved.

Steps in the Design Process

• Need/Problem: the problem or need that requires a solution

• Design Situation: background information relating to the need/problem

• Design Brief: statement of intent

• Research/Investigation: gathering information to develop solutions

• Idea Generation: recording possible solutions in writing and graphically

• Final Choice: selecting one idea for production after analysis

• Development/Planning: identifying equipment, materials, and human resources needed for production

• Production: making the design project

• Testing & Evaluation: checking that the design solution meets the criteria outlined in the design brief and key requirements/constraints

Constraints 

Constraints are limitations that guide the design process and help achieve the highest possible standard.

Types of Constraints

• Target Market: who will use the product?

• Time Available: when must the project be completed?

• Function: what is the purpose and main features of the project?

• Ergonomics: will the product be used by humans and impact on them in use?

• Aesthetics: what should the project look like?

• Cost: is there a cost to complete the project or a budget to operate within?

• Materials and Tools: what is available?

• Expertise: what skills are required to complete the project?

• Environmental Considerations: will the product and its production harm the environment?

• Safety: will the product be safe?

Design Project Limitations 

• The vehicle must be powered by a single GoTrap Wooden Traditional Mouse Trap measuring: Width 50mm, Height 7mm, and Length 120mm.

• The mouse trap cannot be physically altered except for drilled holes for mounting to a frame and cutting snapper arm for lengthening.

• The vehicle may not start with additional potential and/or kinetic energy other than what can be stored in the mouse trap's spring.

• The spring from the mouse trap cannot be removed, altered or heat treated.

• The mousetrap's spring cannot be wound more than its normal travel distance or 180 degrees.

• Mousetrap car must be self-starting.

• Mousetrap car must steer itself and may not receive a push in any direction in order to avoid a collision.

• Overall dimensions must not exceed 300mm Length x 200mm Width.

Criteria for Success 

Project Design Diary 

The project design diary is an explicit documentation of the design process steps followed for the successful completion of the mousetrap car project.

Management - Time Plan 

• 13 weeks of class time to complete the assignment

• Deadlines: week 6, week 10, and week 13

• Events that may affect the project timeline: swimming carnival, cross country, athletics carnival, and Easter holidays

Research 

Research is aimed at helping answer questions about the design problem.

What to Research

• Characteristics and properties of the project materials

• Equipment and tools available in the workshop for the project and how to use them

• Production processes, joining techniques, and how to build the mouse trap car

• Force, motion, and energy used in engineered systems

• Role of an engineering professional and their impact on the environment and society

How to Research

• Primary sources: statistics, interviews, surveys, autobiographies, diaries, original writing, empirical journal articles, books, newspaper articles, photographs, music, and artwork

• Secondary sources: journal articles, textbooks, books that interpret political commentary, biographies, dissertations, dictionaries

Engineers 

An engineer is a person who specializes in the design and construction of things like buildings, machines, and other structures or devices, with specific and oftentimes varying conditions.

Types of Engineers

• Agricultural engineering

• Marine engineering

• Structural engineering

• Electronic engineering

• Construction engineering

• Mining engineering

• Environmental engineering

• Biomedical engineer

• Software engineer

• Chemical engineers

• Nuclear Engineering

• Industrial engineer

• Materials engineering

• Geotechnical engineering

Engineering System 

Australian Indigenous - Fish Traps at Brewarrina

• Name: Brewarrina Fish Traps

• Photo: [insert photo]

• Location: Brewarrina shire, NSW

• Description: a complex system of stone weirs and pools constructed by the Ngemba Indigenous people thousands of years ago

• Function: to catch fish when the tides of the Barwon River were low

• Benefits to the community: provided a reliable food source and played a huge role in the connectivity and culture of the communities there

Modern System - Snowy Mountains Scheme

• Name: Snowy Mountains Scheme

• Photo: [insert photo]

• Location: Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales and Victoria

• Description: a large and complex engineering project that involved the building of dams, tunnels, power stations, and aqueducts

• Function: to redirect water from the Snowy River and its tributaries to the drier regions of NSW and Victoria for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation

• Benefits to the community: assisted in expanding agricultural and production in Murray-Darling, leading to increased food security and economic prosperity

Scientific Concepts 

Energy

Energy is the ability to do work.

Types of Energy

Kinetic and Potential Energy

Potential energy is the stored energy in any object by its position or arrangement of parts, although it is not affected by any outside variables. Kinetic energy is the energy of an object's particles in motion.

• Example: a parked bike on top of a hill has potential energy, which becomes kinetic energy once you start riding it downhill.## Energy Types 🌟

There are several types of energy, including:

• Radiant Energy: energy that is transferred by visible light, electromagnetic radiation, such as light, ultraviolet rays, X-rays, gamma rays, and thermal radiation infrared rays.

• Electrical Energy: a type of kinetic energy caused by moving batteries, electric charges lightning, and electrical charges.

• Nuclear Energy: a form of energy released from the nucleus, the core of atoms, made up of protons and neutrons.

Newton's Laws of Motion 

Newton's Laws of Motion are fundamental principles that describe the behavior of objects in motion. They were formulated by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century.

• First Law: An object at rest will remain at rest, and an object in motion will continue to move with a constant velocity, unless acted upon by an external force.

• Second Law: The force applied to an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration.

• Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Simple Machines 

A Simple Machine is a basic mechanical device for applying a force. There are six types of simple machines:

Levers 

A Lever is a simple machine that is used to change the distance and power of movement. It consists of a rigid bar that rotates around a fixed point, called the fulcrum.

• First Class Lever: A lever with the fulcrum in the middle, and the effort and load on either side.

• Second Class Lever: A lever with the fulcrum on one side, and the effort and load on the other side.

• Third Class Lever: A lever with the effort and load on the same side, and the fulcrum on the other side.

Mousetrap Car 

A Mousetrap Car is a vehicle that uses a mousetrap as a motor and a string to transmit force. The car stores potential energy in the form of the spring, which is converted into kinetic energy when the mousetrap is released.

Design Considerations 

When designing a mousetrap car, consider the following factors:

• Weight of the Car: A lighter car will require less force to begin moving and will experience less friction.

• Placement of the Mousetrap: The mousetrap should be placed in a way that maximizes the force transmitted to the wheels.

• Length of the Snapper Arm and the String: The length of the snapper arm and the string should be optimized to maximize the force transmitted to the wheels.

• Size and Type of Wheels: The size and type of wheels should be chosen to maximize the efficiency of the car.

Performance Evaluation 

The performance of a mousetrap car can be evaluated using the following formula:

N = (w/W) * (D/L) + (D/T)

Where:

• N = Performance score

• w = Mass of the mousetrap (25 grams)

• W = Total mass of the completed mousetrap car

• D = Distance measured in a straight line from starting point to stopping point in centimeters

• L = Length of the car in centimeters (furthest of front to further of rear)

• T = Time (seconds) car travels from start to stopping position## Mousetrap Car Design 

Mousetrap Car Issues and Solutions

Mousetrap Car Design Features

• Aerodynamics: Use a design without a center, with two pieces of wood stuck together by the mousetrap, to reduce weight and increase speed.

• Wheel Alignment: Ensure wheels are 90° to the body to maintain a straight line.

• Mousetrap Size: Use a slightly smaller mousetrap to reduce weight and increase speed.

Design Process 

"The design process is a planned series of steps for the achievement of a practical purpose."

Steps in the Design Process

1. Need/Problem: Identify the problem or need that requires a solution.

2. Design Situation: Gather background information related to the need/problem.

3. Design Brief: Create a statement of intent.

4. Research/Investigation: Gather information through various means, such as internet searches, book searches, and discussions with others.

5. Idea Generation: Record possible solutions in writing and graphically.

6. Final Choice: Select one idea for production after analysis.

7. Development/Planning: Identify equipment, materials, and human resources, and plan through a Gantt chart.

8. Production: Make the design project.

9. Testing & Evaluation: Check that every aspect of the design solution meets the criteria outlined in the design brief and key requirements/constraints.

Concept Comparison Matrix 

Final Concept Assessment 

• Draw a scaled drawing of the final concept, including scale, dimensions, and design features.

• Indicate how the final concept meets the criteria for success points.

Production Procedure 

1. Chassis: Create the structure and framework of the mousetrap car.

2. Wheels: Use recycled mousetrap car wheels.

3. Mousetrap: Use a reused mousetrap from previous years.

4. Lever: Create a lever from two skewers and a bobby pin.

5. Assembly: Assemble the mousetrap car, ensuring stability and proper attachment of components.

Final Evaluation 

• Explain how the mousetrap car solves the design brief and fulfills its purpose.

• Evaluate the performance of the mousetrap car in the class race, using performance data.

• Outline how the mousetrap car meets the criteria for success points.

EcoLamp Project 

Design Brief 

• Design and create a functional sustainable desk lamp using LEDs.

• The desk lamp must have:

  • Radiata Pine in the base design

  • 20mm clearance of the Jarrah block and Arduino Nano board plate to improve stability

  • Arduino Nano board attached to the base

Constraints 

Expertise and Skills Required

To complete the project, proficiency in the following skills is necessary:

• Design

• Research

• Listening

• Minor construction

• Electronics

• Minor construction

Environmental Considerations 

The project aims to minimise environmental harm by:

• Using cost-effective LED lighting and solar power

• Ensuring all elements can be recycled as biodegradable materials

• Submitting all work electronically to prevent paper waste

Safety Considerations 

The product is designed to be safe for use by young children and adolescents, with no small parts or sharp edges. The workshop will adhere to all standards related to work, health, and safety.

Design Project Limitations 

Criteria for Success 

To achieve a successful design, the following criteria must be met:

• Creative Jarrah block design incorporating straight and curved lines

• Jarrah block attached to Radiata Pine base with a 20mm clearance

• Outstanding construction techniques and finishing process

• Working Arduino code for the LEDs that can be modified

• Range of different materials used

• Stable desk lamp that illuminates the working area

Ongoing Evaluation 

The success criteria provides a foundational path that guides the project to achieving a successful product. It defines a set of limitations that the designer must adhere to, reducing possibilities and establishing a framework for further investigation and idea generation.

Time Plan 

A total of 13 weeks is available for the project, with deadlines and events to be considered.

Research 

Research is aimed at helping answer questions about the design problem. The following topics will be researched:

• Characteristics and properties of project materials

• Equipment and tools available in the workshop

• Production processes, including joining techniques and soldering

• Using Onshape for drawing and technical drawings

• Different types of lights and how they work

Research Tasks 

Lighting 

Function of Light 

"The primary function of a light is to illuminate the surrounding spaces, objects, and people, enabling the ability of vision and creating the ideal environment to carry out activities."

Types of Lighting 

• Ambient lighting: general lighting that provides uniform illumination

• Accent lighting: used to highlight a particular feature or object

• Task lighting: focused lighting for specific tasks, such as reading or cooking

Lighting Systems 

Shadows 

"A shadow is formed when an object obstructs the path of light, preventing the light from reaching a surface behind the object."

Study Lamps 

"A study lamp is a type of desk lamp that is designed specifically to provide focused lighting for tasks such as reading, writing, and studying."## Lighting for Studying 📚

Types of Lighting

• Natural Light: The most beneficial for studying as it is balanced and helps regulate types of rhythms and vibrations.

• Cool White Light: Mimics the effects of natural daylight and is known to improve alertness, focus, and productivity.

• LEDs: Energy-efficient and can be adjusted to provide different intensity and color according to preference.

How LED Lights Improve Studying

LEDs can enhance studying as they can be adjusted into the right brightness and color temperature according to the individual person's needs. They also consume less energy and emit light for longer spans, in addition to consistent and flicker-free lights.

What are LEDs?

LEDs, or light emitting diodes, are semiconductor devices that generate light when an electric current flows through it. When electrons and holes, the particles that carry the current, unite within a semiconductor material, light is created.

Comparison of Incandescent Bulbs and LEDs

Jarrah Wood 

Features of Jarrah Wood

• Strong and long-lasting due to its high density

• Possesses strong resistance to pests and decay

• Naturally resistant to blazes due to its environment

• Highly sustainable given its harvesting is governed by tight regulations that ensure ecological forest preservation

Properties of Jarrah Wood

Uses of Jarrah Wood

• Suitable for the Eco Lamp base due to its durability and sustainability

• Can be used for various other purposes, such as:

  • Furniture making

  • Wood carvings

  • Flooring

  • Paneling

  • Decking

Tools and Equipment 

Disc Sander

• Function: Sanding and shaping

• Safety Precautions: Abrasions or burns from contact with the spinning disc, inhalation of dust particles if proper ventilation is not used

Drill Press

• Function: Drilling accurate and consistent holes

• Safety Precautions: Hair or clothing getting caught in moving machine parts, eye injuries, flying swarf and chips

Cordless Drill

• Function: Portable power tool for drilling holes and driving screws

• Safety Precautions: Electric shock if the battery or wiring is damaged, injury from the rotating drill bit, dropping the drill causing injury or damage

Band Saw

• Function: Cutting curved or irregular shapes in wood or metal

• Safety Precautions: Risk of amputation if fingers come into contact with the blade, flying debris from cutting materials, accidental start-up if not properly turned off

Soldering Iron

• Function: Supplies heat to melt solder and join metal items

• Safety Precautions: Burns from contact with the hot iron, eye injuries from flying particles

Programming and Soldering 

Purpose of the Code

The purpose of the code is to make the light LED flash continuously; 1 second on, then one second off and repeat.

Errors in the Code

Functions in Arduino

A function in Arduino is a set of instructions that is executed when it is called. It must perform a specific task, but it allows us to break the code into smaller and more manageable parts.

Defining a Function

To define a function in Arduino, use the keyword void, the function name, and any arguments in parentheses after the function.

Calling a Function

To call a function, write the function code within the curly brackets of your function, and then call the function by its name.

Difference between While Loop and For Loop

Soldering 

What is Soldering?

Soldering is the process in which two or more metal items are joined together by melting a filler metal, this is called a solder, which then solidifies to form a permanent bond.

Equipment Required for Soldering

Soldering Process

1. Clean and prepare the surfaces being used

2. Apply flux to the surfaces

3. Heat the surfaces with the soldering iron

4. Apply solder to the joint

5. Allow the solder to solidify

6. Remove excess solder and flux residue

7. Repeat with more joints if necessary

Tips for Good Soldering

1. Start with a clean tip

2. Use a cone tip

3. Pre-tin wires and pads

4. Use high heat

5. Use short heat times

6. For small wires, pre-tin and then quickly assemble your piece

7. For medium wires, pre-tin and then quickly assemble your piece

8. For big wires, pre-tin and then quickly assemble your piece, keeping wire in place

9. Solder that looks bumpy and stained requires more solder

10. Ensure you do not apply too much solder## Design Process 📝

The design process is a planned series of steps for the achievement of a practical purpose. It can take slightly different forms depending on the nature of the design problem that needs to be resolved.

Steps in the Design Process

• Need/Problem: The problem or need that requires a solution

• Design Situation: Background information relating to the need/problem

• Design Brief: Statement of intent

• Research/Investigation: Gathering information to develop solutions

• Idea Generation: Recording possible solutions in writing and graphically

• Final Choice: Selecting one idea for production after analysis (PMI, concept comparison)

• Development/Planning: Identifying equipment, materials, and human resources, and planning through a Gantt chart

• Production: Includes all steps to make the design project

• Testing & Evaluation: Checking that every aspect of the design solution meets the criteria outlined in the design brief and key requirements/constraints

Design Project: Ecolamp 

Design Brief

The design brief for the Ecolamp project was to create a sustainable desk lamp using LED lights, Radiata Pine, and a Jarrah block.

Design Process for Ecolamp

Design Project: Veggie Patch 

Design Brief

The design brief for the Veggie Patch project was to establish and maintain a culinary garden for a vegan restaurant.

Design Process for Veggie Patch

Research 

Research is aimed at helping you answer questions about the design problem. What do you want to find out?

• The systems associated with agricultural production

• Ideal conditions for growth of agricultural plants

• Food preparation techniques and impact on nutrient value

• Recipe modifications to improve and enhance nutritional value

• Tasty combinations of ingredients in a recipe

• Ingredients available on the project pantry list

• Equipment and appliances available in the Food Technology room

• Nutritional analysis of weekly practical applications

• The reasons for the increase of plant-based diets

How to Find the Information You Want

• Primary sources

• Secondary sources

Research Record 

Information Gathered from Research

• The eight seedlings in the restaurant culinary garden include:

  • Zucchini

  • Broccoli

  • Carrot

  • Mushrooms

  • Baby corn

  • Capsicum

  • Tomato

  • Baby Spinach

• Selection of herbs include:

  • Basil

  • Curly parsley

  • Greek oregano

  • Italian parsley

  • Coriander

Equipment and Appliances

Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture 

What is Food Security?

"Regular access to safe and nutritious food"

Why is Food Security a Global Issue?

"Need to help other people"

What is Sustainable Agriculture and Why is it Important?

"Respect for the land and keeping it in its natural state, it's important to preserve as once it's depleted it cannot be reused or replenished"

How Does Sustainable Agriculture Help the Environment?

"Helps to preserve the land and keep it in its natural state Ethical Issues in Agriculture 

• Animal welfare

• Environmental degradation

• Labor exploitation

• Food safety and security

• Genetic modification

Plant-Based Vegan Diet 

A plant-based vegan diet is a type of diet that excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey.

Advantages of a Plant-Based Vegan Diet

• Lower risk of heart disease and stroke

• Lower risk of certain types of cancer

• Weight loss and improved weight management

• Improved gut health and digestion

• Environmental benefits

Disadvantages of a Plant-Based Vegan Diet

• Higher cost of specialty products

• Limited availability of vegan options in some areas

• Potential for nutrient deficiencies if not planned properly

• Social challenges and stigma associated with veganism

Community Gardens 

A community garden is a shared plot of land where individuals or groups can grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Benefits of Community Gardens

Bungarribee Community Garden

The Bungarribee Community Garden is a thriving urban green space located in Bungarribee Park, New South Wales. The garden was created to promote sustainability, locally produced food, and community engagement.

Funding

The Bungarribee Community Garden is funded through a combination of government grants, contributions from the Western Sydney Parklands Trust, and membership subscriptions.

Benefits

The Bungarribee Community Garden provides a range of benefits to the community, including:

• A space for people to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers

• Opportunities for socialization and community building

• Educational programs and workshops on sustainable gardening practices

• A source of fresh produce for individuals and families

🍴 Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden 🍴

The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden is a program that aims to promote healthy eating and cooking skills in children.

Services and Resources

The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation provides a range of services and resources, including:

• Gardening and cooking programs for schools

• Educational resources and curriculum materials

• Support for schools to establish their own kitchen gardens

Advantages and Disadvantages

Design Process 

The design process involves a series of steps that help to generate and evaluate ideas for a project.

Idea Generation

Idea generation involves brainstorming and listing as many ideas as possible for a project.

Final Concept

The final concept is the idea that is chosen to be developed and implemented.

Production Procedure

A production procedure is a plan that outlines the steps involved in producing a product or service.

Final Evaluation

The final evaluation involves assessing the success of the project and identifying areas for improvement.

"The design process is a series of steps that help to generate and evaluate ideas for a project. It involves idea generation, concept comparison, and final concept selection, as well as production and evaluation."