Models

• Block models are models that are used to give the designer a general idea of the products look. We use block models to:​

  • Communicate form and shape​
  • Test ergonomics ​
  • Present to a client ​
  • Analyse aesthetics ​
  • Visualise surface details ​
  • See position of buttons
• Sketch models are used in the development stage of to design process and are mainly made to help visualise ideas in their 3D form. We use sketch models when designing products to see:​

  • Scale and size of the product​
  • Anthropometrics ​
  • Function issues ​
  • Moving parts and mechanisms ​
  • Aesthetic factors 
• Test models are subjected to various tests on to ensure the safety and performance of a product is up to the designer and manufacturers expectations. ​We use test models to test and determine:​

  • How well a product preforms ​
  • Efficiency​
  • Structural stability ​
  • Material choice​
  • If a product meets health and safety regulations ​
  • Any changes that need to be made before manufacture
• Scale models are to the scale of the final product. (duh) ​We use scale models to:​

  • Gather info about sizes ​
  • Check proportions ​
  • Test ergonomics ​
  • Figure out assembly methods​
  • Use for market
• Prototypes are full-sized, working models of the product which are made after testing and modelling other designs.​ We use prototypes to:​

  • Prove the visibility of a design ​
  • Test a fully working product​
  • Assist with marketing ​
  • Check for flaws before manufacturing 
• Why are prototypes expensive?

  They are made of the same material as the final product
• What model is used to visualise initial ideas?

  Sketch models
• What product is used in simulations of real life conditions?

  Test models
• What is used to create computer generated models?


  CAD
• Why are computer generated models used?


  • accurate dimensions
  • realistic materials and textures
  • can be used in manufacture
  • can be used in promotion
• What type of model is this?

  Block model

  
• What kind of models are these?

  Prototype

  
• What materials are used in sketch models?

  • paper
  • card
  • plastic
  • other cheap materials