Design Process

RICH PICTURE
At the beginning of the project place the theme at the centre. Put words / themes that are connected to it, around it.

DESIGN PROBLEM AND DESIGN BRIEF
State the design problem clearly. Explain how you intend to solve it in general terms.

ANALYSIS
List as many questions as you can about the project you are attempting. E.g. What materials can I use ?What safety considerations must I keep in mind ?

SYNTHESIS
Answer the questions in the analysis.

PLANNING
Use a time chart and flow chart to plan your use of time. (See additional sheet)

RESEARCH
If you are to get a high grade you must put effort into this section. Remember, all research must be relevant to your project and constantly refer to the problem you are trying to solve. Produce at least one sheet on each of the following:Suitable materials for your project.
Investigate the ways in which materials can be joined together - joints and fixings.The ergonomic factors that apply to your project.Safety factors related to your design problem.Write letters to manufacturers / shops.Research using the library.Research using the Internet / CD-ROMs/DVDs.Interview people with the aim of helping you to solve the design problem (record the interview).Carry out a survey / questionnaire and present the results as a pictogram/table of results.Collect pictures of existing products - photographs/catalogue pictures.How are existing products manufactured?Research other relevant areas such as electronic circuits.

SPECIFICATION
Once you have completed your design you should specify in a paragraph or two what exactly you are going to do to solve this problem. Always refer to your research.

IDEAS
Draw at least six ideas, with notes. The ideas should be different and not just the same idea slightly changed. Include environmental considerations (See additional sheet)

DEVELOPMENT
To get the higher grades you must take your best idea and develop it further. One way of starting this section is to draw your best idea again and point out areas that can be improved. Areas may include, safety, colour scheme, cost, using a spreadsheet, shape, materials, mechanisms, circuits, systems diagram and the environment. You must show that you have considered Safety and the Consumer. You also need to develop a circuit for your project. You may need to show how mechanisms can be used as part of your design. How will all the parts/components be joined together? What joints and fixings will be needed? Stages of programming a microcontroller circuit (flow chart). Make a series of models.

SOLUTION
Produce a working drawing of your solution with a parts list. This must have measurements and constructional details. You may prefer to produce a Parts Sheet first. A three dimensional drawing can also be attempted.

MANUFACTURE
Produce planning sheets to show each stage of production - a flowchart, time chart, sequence drawing.Make a model.Make the solution.

EVALUATION
Do not forget this important section. Evaluate your product. State the good and bad points. Does the solution answer the design brief ? Spend some time on this section. You should include social issues, health and safety, ethical and environmental issues.