Design Technologies: Resistant Materials

Elective Unit

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this course.

Course Description

Design Technologies – Resistant materials involves creative and critical thinking to understand design problems and construct real world solutions. Students undertake research and development (R&D), design, project management and building activities to solve contemporary one off, local community, organisation or global needs.

The main materials of Metal, Wood, and Plastics are offered, however other materials may be included to realise particular inventions and prototypes. The additional media on offer are determined, in part, by the interests of the students. Other materials may include, textiles, leather, ceramics, glass and the use of new technologies.

Students are required to produce a design portfolio which includes a number of project management components, the product made is designed by the students in line with an end-user(s) need(s).

The study of Design Technologies – Resistant materials may provide a pathway to a range of related fields including industrial and product design, project management, engineering, furniture, jewellery, architecture and building construction (Management).

• Understanding the design process and specific terminology (design factors).
• The examination of a design brief using evaluation criteria.
• A plan of the product, including pictorial, working/technical and CAD drawings.
• A sequence of operations and estimated schedule for the production.
• Estimating the required quantity and cost of building a project.
• A review and analysis of the sustainability of materials and processes.
• Evaluation of the work completed.

Essential Questions

• How do I develop creative and critical thinking routines?
• How do I meet the needs of an end user?
• How do I make a prototype using certain materials?
• Why do I need to consider the social and environmental consequences in design and production?

Areas of Study

Materials and Processes

• The development of skills and dexterity in using appropriate hand, power tools and new technologies of varying complexity.

Materials, Health and Safety

• The safe use of hand, power tools and new technologies; the safe handling, working and storage of particular materials.

Design Consideration and Constraints

• Design briefs: specify the problem.
• Design considerations: examine the human product interface.
• Constraints: cost, time available, materials available, facilities, knowledge.

Means of Communicating Ideas

• Pictorial and working drawings; photographic and physical examples; written and oral explanations; models, prototypes and mock-ups.

Product Evaluation

• Examining the effectiveness and efficiencies of certain design and production routines.
• Presentation and explanation of product attributes.