Design Technology

• Front

  Back
• What is Industry 4.0?

  The integration of AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things into manufacturing systems.
• What are the benefits of automation in design and manufacturing?

  Increased efficiency, reduced human error, faster production.
• What are the drawbacks of new and emerging technologies?

  High initial cost, reliance on energy and training, potential job loss.
• What is a renewable energy source?

  An energy source that is replenished naturally, e.g. solar, wind, hydro.
• Name two non-renewable energy sources.

  Coal and oil.
• What are smart materials?

  Materials that change their properties in response to changes in the environment.
• Give an example of a modern material.

  Carbon fibre, polymorph, or titanium.
• What does 'ecological footprint' refer to?

  The environmental impact of a product or process throughout its lifecycle.
• What does 'social footprint' mean in design and technology?

  The effect of a product or process on people and communities, including working conditions and ethical sourcing.
• What is the purpose of ACCESS FM?

  To analyse a product's features: Aesthetics, Cost, Customer, Environment, Size, Safety, Function, Materials.
• What are the three main material categories in product design?

  Woods, metals, and polymers.
• What is the difference between thermoplastics and thermosets?

  Thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped; thermosets set permanently after being heated.
• What is a composite material?

  A material made by combining two or more materials to improve properties, e.g. carbon fibre.
• Give two examples of joining techniques in product design.

  Adhesives and screws (others: welding, rivets, nails).
• What is orthographic drawing used for?

  To show accurate 2D views of a design from different angles (top, front, side).
• Name a health and safety measure in a workshop.

  Wearing PPE such as goggles or gloves.
• What is iterative design?

  A cyclical process of designing, testing, evaluating, and refining.
• Name a CAD software used in product design.

  Fusion 360, SketchUp, or SolidWorks.
• What does CAM stand for?

  Computer-Aided Manufacturing.
• What tool would you use to cut straight lines in wood?

  A tenon saw or band saw.
• What is vacuum forming?

  A method of shaping plastic by heating and forming it over a mould with suction.
• Why use a prototype?

  To test ideas, identify issues, and refine the product before final production.
• What is user-centred design?

  Design that focuses on the needs, wants, and limitations of the end user.
• Name one way to finish a wooden product.

  Varnishing, painting, or waxing.
• What does 3D printing allow designers to do?

  Create rapid prototypes or complex shapes quickly and accurately.
• What is the purpose of evaluating a product against its specification?

  To ensure it meets the design brief and functions as intended.
• Name a type of manufactured board.

  MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) or plywood.
• What is the function of a pillar drill?

  To drill accurate vertical holes in materials.
• Define ‘aesthetic’ in design.

  The visual appeal or style of a product.
• What does ergonomics refer to in product design?

  Designing for comfort, efficiency, and user interaction.